Trace how countable income reduces a monthly allotment.
The maximum is a ceiling
The USDA allotment table shows the most a household of a given size can receive in a fiscal year. It is not the typical payment for every approved household.
The simplified calculation
After allowed deductions, SNAP generally subtracts about 30% of countable net income from the maximum allotment. For example, with a $994 FY 2026 four-person maximum and $1,000 countable net income, the illustrative result is about $694 before state-specific details and official rounding.
Check what changed
A change in pay, household membership, rent, utility allowance or eligible care or medical expense can affect the result. The agency’s notice identifies the figures it used; compare those numbers with your records.
If something looks wrong
Ask the state office for a budget explanation and how to correct an omitted expense or incorrect income entry. Follow the notice’s hearing deadline if you disagree with an official decision.
Sources and next step
Topic reference: USDA guidance ↗.
Federal baseline information: USDA eligibility rules and FY 2026 tables. Details vary by state and household. Find your state SNAP agency to apply or verify your case.