511.4 Residents of Institutions

An institution is a facility that makes and serves at least half of residents’ meals (more than 50 percent of three meals daily) as part of its service. For example, boarding schools, general hospitals and skilled nursing facilities are types of institutions.

Example: Jesse applies for SNAP for themself and two children who are enrolled in and live at Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters during the school year.  Since the majority of the children’s meals are provided by the school, Jesse is ineligible for SNAP for the children.  The children may be eligible for SNAP during the summer months as long as Jesse provides more than 50 percent of their meals at home.

An individual who lives in an institution is not eligible for SNAP unless they:

7 CFR § 271.2

 

  1. If an individual at a for-profit facility is receiving less than half of their meals from the facility, the individual is not considered a resident of an institution and could be entitled to SNAP if otherwise eligible.  If the for-profit facility is known to provide more than 50 percent of meals (11 meals or more per week) to residents, the CAO should request a letter to verify that the applicant is not receiving the majority of their meals from the facility if the arrangement is questionable.  Individuals may not receive 50 percent or more of their meals from a for-profit institution and receive SNAP. 

If a facility does not qualify as an institution, residents may apply for SNAP on the same basis as any other household. 

7 CFR § 273.1(b)(7)(vi)

Individuals on house arrest may be eligible for SNAP benefits providing they meet eligibility requirements and are permitted to perform essential activities for daily living as a condition of their arrest.  Although confined to their home, individuals may be permitted to leave for essential preapproved activities such as work, medical appointments, and grocery shopping.

Revised September 17, 2025, replacing March 21, 2025