U.S. Department of Agriculture
What it may cover
Varies
Enrollment
October 1, 2026
Where available
Check locally
What you get
TEFAP makes USDA-purchased commodity foods available at no cost to low-income Americans through a nationwide network of food banks, food pantries, and soup kitchens. States receive allocations of foods based on their low-income and unemployed populations and distribute them through local food bank networks, where recipients can collect food packages or receive prepared meals. The program distributes billions of pounds of food annually including canned goods, dairy, meat, poultry, and fresh produce.
Help paying for groceries and nutrition support, usually through a card, meal program, or local provider.
Check what applies to you. Your answers are saved on this device so you can come back later.
Must meet income eligibility criteria set by the state (typically at or below 185% of Federal Poverty Level)
This program requires income at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level. Select your household size to see your exact dollar limit.
How many people are in your household?
Count everyone who lives and eats with you — yourself, partner, children, and dependents.
If you do not have one of these, apply anyway and ask what substitutes are accepted.
Processing time varies by location and program funding.
Your ZIP helps you confirm the right local office and state-specific rules.
Other programs in the same category that often go hand-in-hand.