Can Felons Get Food Stamps
in Indiana in 2025?
YES — Almost Everyone Qualifies Now
Updated December 2025 • Official Rules
I’m an Indiana local who runs this site. Every single week I get messages from Hoosiers asking, “I have a felony — can I still get food stamps?” The answer in 2025 is almost always YES. Indiana completely removed the old federal drug felony lifetime ban in 2019 — one of the most progressive moves in the country. I wrote this guide so nobody gets turned away because of outdated information.
Indiana Repealed the Drug Felony Ban on July 1, 2019
Since that date, NO ONE in Indiana is permanently banned from SNAP because of a drug felony — even if currently on parole, probation, or just got out yesterday.
The ONLY People Still Ineligible in 2025
Everyone else qualifies normally — including:
→ Drug felonies (possession, delivery, manufacturing)
→ Violent felonies
→ Sex offenses
→ People currently incarcerated are ineligible, but become eligible the day they’re released
Indiana vs Neighboring States (2025)
| State | Drug Felony Ban? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana | No ban | Full access since 2019 |
| Kentucky | No ban | Removed 2023 |
| Ohio | No ban | Removed 2021 |
| Illinois | Lifetime ban | Still enforced |
| Michigan | Lifetime ban | Still enforced |
Real-Life Examples (2025 Rules)
- ✓ Just released from prison yesterday → eligible today
- ✓ On probation for meth delivery → eligible
- ✓ On parole for armed robbery → eligible
- ✓ Registered sex offender → eligible if meets income rules
- ✗ Currently has active arrest warrant → ineligible until resolved
Frequently Asked Questions – December 2025
Yes — the application asks. Answer honestly. Indiana does NOT deny for past convictions (only the two exceptions above).
No — FSSA does not notify probation/parole officers about SNAP enrollment.
Most halfway houses allow residents to receive SNAP. Ask your case manager.
Yes — felony record does not affect 7-day expedited SNAP.
If you live in Indiana and meet the normal income rules → you qualify for food stamps in 2025 — period.
See 2025 Income Limits →