Some individuals are eligible for SNAP even though they do not live in a traditional living arrangement, such as a private home or apartment.
These individuals are:
Homeless persons
Residents of certain Federally subsidized apartments for the elderly
Residents in a drug addiction or alcoholic treatment and rehabilitation center
Certain residents in a group living arrangement (GLA)
Residents in shelters for battered persons and children
Residents of certified shelters for battered persons and children may get benefits including expedited SNAP if eligible, even if they are part of an existing household that includes the alleged abuser. See Section 511.9 , and Chapter 506 .
Residents of commercial boarding homes and residents of most institutions are never considered SNAP households and cannot receive SNAP benefits.
Revised September 17, 2025, replacing April 6, 2016