Beyond SNAP: Two Federal Food Programs Just for Seniors
Two federal food programs serve only people 60 and older: a free monthly food box and farmers market vouchers. You can get both while on SNAP, and you apply locally.
Two federal food programs are for adults 60 and older and are separate from SNAP. The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) gives a free monthly box of shelf-stable food to households at or below about 130% of the federal poverty level. The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) gives seasonal vouchers for fresh produce to households at or below about 185%. Neither uses the SNAP application, and getting SNAP does not disqualify you from either. You can receive all three.
Our SNAP Eligibility Calculator for Seniors covers SNAP's rules for households with someone 60 or older. CSFP and SFMNP are less well known, and many people assume that qualifying for one food program rules out the others. It does not.
| CSFP | SFMNP | SNAP | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What you get | Monthly box of USDA foods | Seasonal vouchers for fresh produce | Monthly grocery money on an EBT card |
| Age | 60 or older | 60 or older | Any age |
| Income limit | About 130% of poverty level (150% in some states) | About 185% of poverty level | See the SNAP calculator |
| Where to apply | Local food bank or distribution site | Area Agency on Aging or state agency | State SNAP office |
| Limits | Capped enrollment, waitlists | Seasonal, while vouchers last | None on enrollment |
CSFP: a free monthly box of food
CSFP provides a monthly package of USDA foods to income-eligible adults 60 and older. A box typically holds cereal, oats, pasta, rice, peanut butter, dry milk, cheese, canned meat, canned fruits and vegetables, and dry beans.
The usual income limit is 130% of the federal poverty level. Some states have moved to 150%. Using the 2026 poverty guidelines for the 48 contiguous states, that works out to roughly:
- 130%: $1,729 a month for one person, $2,344 for two
- 150%: $1,995 a month for one person, $2,705 for two
Your state's posted figures may differ slightly, depending on which year's guidelines it is using.
CSFP is run locally, usually by a food bank, community center or church. It does not go through the state SNAP office. Bring proof of age, address and income when you apply. Enrollment is capped in many areas, so there may be a waitlist. Call before you go. If you cannot pick up a box yourself, ask whether someone can collect it for you or whether the site delivers.
SFMNP: vouchers for fresh produce at farmers markets
SFMNP gives vouchers that you spend on fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs at authorized farmers markets, roadside stands and some community-supported agriculture programs. Many states include honey as well.
The income limit is generally 185% of the federal poverty level, about $2,461 a month for one person or $3,336 for two under the 2026 guidelines. That is well above CSFP's limit, so some people who do not qualify for the food box do qualify for vouchers.
Each state runs its own version. The voucher amount, the market list and the season differ by state, and the amount is modest, usually tens of dollars for the season. Vouchers are handed out in late spring and summer and often run out, so ask early in the year when your state starts.
CSFP
Free monthly box of shelf-stable USDA foods. Income at or below about 130% of the poverty level. Capped enrollment, waitlists common.
SFMNP
Seasonal vouchers for fresh produce at farmers markets. Income at or below about 185% of the poverty level. Amounts vary by state.
You can combine all three
SNAP, CSFP and SFMNP are meant to be used together. Being on SNAP does not disqualify you from CSFP or SFMNP, and being on CSFP does not disqualify you from SFMNP. The food box and the vouchers also do not count as income for SNAP.
Each covers a different need. SNAP pays for the groceries you choose. CSFP supplies staples at no cost. SFMNP pays for fresh produce, which a shelf-stable box cannot include. If you already get SNAP, check the other two.
How to apply
- Call your local Area Agency on Aging. It either runs these programs or knows which food bank, health department or aging office does.
- Ask three questions: is there an opening or a waitlist for CSFP, when are farmers market vouchers given out, and what documents do I need?
- Apply for SNAP separately through your state SNAP office if you have not already.
For hot meals, see how congregate meals and Meals on Wheels work. Those have no income test.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)?
It is a federal program that gives a free monthly box of shelf-stable USDA foods to income-eligible adults age 60 and older. The box includes items such as cereal, pasta, rice, peanut butter, canned meat, canned fruit and vegetables, and dry milk. It is separate from SNAP and does not use the SNAP application.
What is the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)?
It is a federal program that gives income-eligible adults age 60 and older seasonal vouchers for fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs at authorized farmers markets, roadside stands and some community-supported agriculture programs. Voucher amounts and the season vary by state.
Can I get CSFP or SFMNP if I already receive SNAP?
Yes. CSFP, SFMNP and SNAP are separate programs, and receiving one does not disqualify you from the others. Apply for each one you qualify for.
What are the income limits for CSFP and SFMNP?
CSFP generally requires household income at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, and some states use 150%. SFMNP generally requires income at or below 185%. Under the 2026 guidelines, 130% is about $1,729 a month for one person and 185% is about $2,461. The exact figure depends on household size and your state.
How do I apply for CSFP or SFMNP?
Not through the SNAP application. Both are run locally, often by a food bank, an Area Agency on Aging, or a state health or aging department. Call your Area Agency on Aging to find the nearest CSFP distribution site or SFMNP voucher issuer.
This article explains the general structure of CSFP and SFMNP as of October 2026. Income limits, voucher amounts, application steps and availability vary by state, and both programs have capped enrollment or a seasonal window. This is general educational information, not a benefits determination. Confirm current details with your local Area Agency on Aging or state aging or health department.