Other programs · comparison

SNAP vs WIC vs TANF

Three programs people often mix up. SNAP is for food, WIC is nutrition for moms and young children, and TANF is cash for families. Here they are side by side — and why many families qualify for more than one.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-03

SNAPWICTANF
What it isMonthly food benefit on an EBT card for groceriesFood package + nutrition support for moms and young kidsMonthly cash assistance for families with children
Who it's forAlmost any low-income household — singles, families, seniors, people with disabilitiesPregnant/postpartum women, infants, and children under age 5Low-income families with a child (or a pregnant woman)
What you getA set monthly dollar amount for almost any groceries (max $298 for 1 person, FY2026)Specific healthy foods (formula, milk, eggs, produce), plus breastfeeding help and referralsA monthly cash payment (amount set by your state) you can spend on basic needs
Income limit~130% of the poverty line gross (higher — 165–200% — in most BBCE states)At or below 185% of the poverty lineSet by each state (usually well below the poverty line)
Time limitNone for most (some childless adults face a 3-month ABAWD limit)Until the child turns 5 / end of the postpartum period60-month federal lifetime limit + work requirements
How to applyOnline through your state SNAP portal, or by phone/in personThrough a local WIC clinic (often start online, finish in person)Through your state TANF/cash-assistance agency
Run byUSDA, administered by your stateUSDA, run through state/local WIC agenciesFederal block grant, run entirely by your state

Can I get all three?

Yes — they're separate programs and you can receive more than one at once; many families get all three. In fact, getting one often makes it easier to qualify for another (being on SNAP or TANF can give you automatic WIC eligibility, for example). There's no penalty for applying to all three. Start by checking SNAP with the eligibility check, check WIC with the WIC calculator, and for TANF contact your state's cash-assistance agency.

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