California · Updated October 14, 2026
California income limits for SNAP, Medicaid and WIC (2026-27)
California’s SNAP limit for October 2026 to September 2027, Medicaid and WIC limits by household size, and energy bill help, from the official tables.
Quick check: which limits does your income fit?
Compares income only, before deductions. Assets, work rules, citizenship and other rules also apply; your state agency decides.
SNAP (food stamps) income limits in California
California uses broad-based categorical eligibility, so households with gross income up to 200% of the poverty guideline can qualify, higher than the federal 130%. There is no asset limit under this rule. Your benefit amount still depends on your income after deductions.
| Household size | California gross limit / month (200%) | Federal gross limit / month (130%) | Net limit / month (100%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | about $2,660 | $1,729 | $1,330 |
| 2 | about $3,607 | $2,345 | $1,804 |
| 3 | about $4,553 | $2,960 | $2,277 |
| 4 | about $5,500 | $3,575 | $2,750 |
| 5 | about $6,447 | $4,191 | $3,224 |
| 6 | about $7,393 | $4,806 | $3,697 |
| 7 | about $8,340 | $5,421 | $4,170 |
| 8 | about $9,287 | $6,037 | $4,644 |
October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027. The 200% column is our calculation from the 2026 poverty guidelines; California’s own table may differ by a few dollars. Sources: USDA FNS, SNAP income eligibility standards FY2027; USDA FNS, Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility chart (June 2026).
Medicaid in California
California has expanded Medicaid, so most adults under 65 qualify with income up to 138% of the poverty guideline. Children, pregnant women and people with disabilities often have higher limits.
| Household size | Per year | Per month |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $22,025 | $1,835 |
| 2 | $29,863 | $2,489 |
| 3 | $37,702 | $3,142 |
| 4 | $45,540 | $3,795 |
| 5 | $53,378 | $4,448 |
| 6 | $61,217 | $5,101 |
| 7 | $69,055 | $5,755 |
| 8 | $76,894 | $6,408 |
Sources: KFF, Status of State Action on the Medicaid Expansion Decision (October 2026); HealthCare.gov, Medicaid expansion & what it means for you; HHS 2026 poverty guidelines, Federal Register Jan 15, 2026.
WIC in California
WIC helps pregnant and postpartum women, infants and children under 5 with healthy food. The income limit is 185% of the poverty guideline, July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027:
| Household size | Per year |
|---|---|
| 1 | $29,526 |
| 2 | $40,034 |
| 3 | $50,542 |
| 4 | $61,050 |
| 5 | $71,558 |
| 6 | $82,066 |
| 7 | $92,574 |
| 8 | $103,082 |
Count a pregnant woman as two (or more) people. Source: USDA WIC 2026-2027 income eligibility guidelines, Federal Register Apr 29, 2026.
Energy bill help (LIHEAP)
California sets its own LIHEAP income limit, no higher than the greater of 150% of the poverty guideline or 60% of the state median income. 150% of the 2026 guideline is $23,940 a year for one person and $49,500 for four. Ask your local energy assistance office for the exact limit. Source: HHS ACF, LIHEAP fact sheet.
Cut the rest of your bills
Benefits help most when they come with lower bills: see our guides to cutting each big bill, the phone script builder and help paying bills.
Frequently asked questions
What is the SNAP income limit in California?
For a household of four, about $5,500 a month in gross income (200% of poverty under California’s rules). Figures apply October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027.
Did California expand Medicaid?
Yes. Most adults qualify with income up to 138% of the poverty guideline, about $22,025 a year for one person.
What is the WIC income limit in California?
$61,050 a year for a household of four (185% of poverty), from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027.
See an outdated figure?
Checked October 14, 2026. Income limits are one part of eligibility; California’s agencies make the decision. This is general information, not legal advice.