What is an entitlement program? What does it mean that SNAP is an entitlement program?
An entitlement program is a federally funded program that guarantees a certain level of benefits to persons or other entities who meet requirements set by law. It leaves no discretion with Congress on how much money to appropriate to the program. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is an entitlement program, allowing all eligible individuals and households to receive assistance if they meet the requirements. Eligibility and benefits are based on household size, household assets, and gross and net income.
