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Basic Food – Food Stamps

Basic Food is also called Food Stamps.

Income Rules Have Changed! Beginning October 1, 2008, Basic Food will be available to more people in Washington (see income guidelines below).

Basic Food provides money to buy food using an Electronic Benefits Transfer Card (EBT). EBT cards work like debit cards. You can spend your monthly benefits in participating grocery stores.

Eligibility is based on gross monthly income and household size. The amount of food assistance a family receives depends on income, allowable expenses, and the number of people in your household. The average family benefit for a family of 4 in Washington State is $174 per month. Some families receive more, some families receive less. Benefits range from $10 to over $800 per month.

Use the Benefit Finder to see if you may qualify and fill-out an application online.

Income Guidelines

Note: Everyone who applies for benefits in September 2008 will be considered for eligibility in October under the higher income limits.

130% Federal Poverty Level Family Size Monthly Income 1 $1,107 2 $1,484 3 $1,861 4 $2,238 5 $2,615 6 $2,992 7 $3,369 8 $3,746 9 $4,123 10 $4,500 11+ $377 each

Starting October 2008 – 200% FPL Family Size Monthly Income 1 $1,734 2 $2,334 3 $2,934 4 $3,534 5 $4,134 6 $4,734 7 $5,334 8 $5,934 9 $6,534 10 $7,134 11+ $600 each