The income limit for the Washington Basic Food program (food stamps) is set at 200% of the federal poverty level, which is significantly higher than the national SNAP income limit of 130% of the federal poverty level.
Households with a member who is elderly (age 60+) or has a disability can have a higher income and still qualify for Basic Food benefits in Washington.
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The net income limit for Basic Food, which factors in deductions like housing costs and child care expenses, does not apply to most households in Washington.
Many individuals and families who previously made too much money to qualify for food stamps can now get Basic Food benefits in Washington due to the higher income limits.
Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who are not eligible for federal SNAP benefits may still qualify for Washington's state-funded Food Assistance Program.
The maximum monthly Basic Food benefit for a household of four in Washington is $835, which is higher than the national SNAP maximum.
Washington state uses the Standard Utility Allowance when calculating a household's net income, which can significantly increase the amount of benefits they receive.
Eligibility for Basic Food in Washington is not just based on income - factors like resources, expenses, and household size are also considered.
Applying for Basic Food in Washington can be done online, over the phone, or in-person at a local Community Services Office.
Households that qualify for Basic Food in Washington will also automatically qualify for free or reduced-price school meals for any children in the home.
The average monthly Basic Food caseload in Washington decreased by 6.8% between state fiscal year 2021 and 2022.
In state fiscal year 2022, over 73% of Washington's Basic Food recipients did not receive any cash assistance or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
The Basic Food Employment and Training (BFET) program in Washington served an average of 4,361 clients per month in state fiscal year 2021.
The percentage of Washington Basic Food cases that included someone receiving cash assistance or SSI was 8.3% and 17.4% respectively in state fiscal year 2021.
Washington's Basic Food program is administered by the state's Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), which provides comprehensive resources and guides to help residents understand the eligibility requirements.
The state's Food Assistance Program, which serves legal immigrants ineligible for federal SNAP, had an average monthly caseload of 30,145 in state fiscal year 2021.
Households in Washington with high shelter costs can qualify for a higher Standard Utility Allowance, further increasing their Basic Food benefit amount.
The income limits for Basic Food in Washington are adjusted annually to reflect changes in the federal poverty guidelines.
Applicants for Basic Food in Washington must complete an interview, either in-person or over the phone, in order to receive benefits.
Washington state has made efforts in recent years to expand access to Basic Food by raising income limits and simplifying the application process.