Washington calls SNAP "Basic Food" and administers the program through the Department of Social and Health Services, commonly abbreviated DSHS, using the Washington Connection online portal. Washington has adopted Broad Based Categorical Eligibility at 200 percent of the federal poverty level with no asset limit for most households, and separately runs a state-funded program covering certain immigrants who don't qualify for federal SNAP.
This guide is independently written and is not affiliated with USDA, OPM, the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, or the official federal Feds Feed Families campaign.
What SNAP in Washington Is Called and Who Runs It
Washington's SNAP program is called Basic Food, administered statewide by DSHS through local Community Services Offices. Benefits are delivered on a Washington Quest EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and select online retailers.
Income Limits
- What SNAP in Washington Is Called and Who Runs It
- Income Limits
- Maximum Benefit Amounts
- How to Apply
- State Food Assistance Program for Immigrants
- No Drug Felony Ban
- What Washington SNAP Can Be Used For
- FAQ
- What is SNAP called in Washington State?
- Does Washington help immigrants who don't qualify for federal SNAP?
- Does Washington restrict SNAP eligibility based on drug felony convictions?
- How do I apply for Basic Food in Washington?
Washington uses Broad Based Categorical Eligibility at 200 percent of the federal poverty level for gross income, with net income after deductions needing to fall below 100 percent of the poverty level. Households with elderly or disabled members may qualify under higher limits. Because exact dollar figures update annually, confirming your household's current limit through Washington Connection is the most reliable approach.
Maximum Benefit Amounts
Washington households use the same federal maximum allotment table applied across the 48 contiguous states, ranging from $298 a month for one person to $994 a month for a family of four for federal fiscal year 2026.
How to Apply
- Online through Washington Connection at washingtonconnection.org, taking roughly 15 to 30 minutes to complete
- By phone by calling DSHS at 1-877-501-2233
- In person at a local DSHS Community Services Office
After applying, you'll complete an interview with DSHS, either in person at a Community Services Office or by phone. You do not need to delay applying while gathering documents, since verification can generally be provided during the interview itself.
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State Food Assistance Program for Immigrants
Washington operates a separate, state-funded State Food Assistance Program, providing the same food benefits as federal SNAP to certain immigrants who don't qualify for the federal program specifically due to immigration status. Undocumented immigrants remain ineligible for either program directly, but can apply on behalf of an eligible household member, such as a U.S. citizen child, without needing to disclose their own immigration status. It's worth noting that starting September 18, 2026, use of federal nutrition programs like SNAP will become countable toward public charge determinations, so households with immigration concerns are encouraged to consult an immigration attorney before applying.
No Drug Felony Ban
Washington has fully opted out of the federal restriction that bars people with certain drug-related felony convictions from receiving SNAP, meaning anyone who otherwise meets the income and eligibility requirements can receive Basic Food benefits regardless of criminal history.
What Washington SNAP Can Be Used For
Washington follows standard federal SNAP purchasing rules, and many Seattle-area farmers markets participate in Market Match, a Double Up Food Bucks-style program that matches SNAP dollars spent on produce.
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FAQ
What is SNAP called in Washington State?
Washington calls the program Basic Food, administered by the Department of Social and Health Services.
Does Washington help immigrants who don't qualify for federal SNAP?
Yes, through the state-funded State Food Assistance Program, which provides the same food benefits to certain immigrants ineligible for federal SNAP.
Does Washington restrict SNAP eligibility based on drug felony convictions?
No. Washington has fully opted out of the federal drug felony ban, so eligibility isn't restricted by criminal history.
How do I apply for Basic Food in Washington?
Apply online through Washington Connection at washingtonconnection.org, by phone at 1-877-501-2233, or in person at a local DSHS Community Services Office.
Sources: Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, Hunger Free Washington, USDA Food and Nutrition Administration.