Recipients of food for home consumption must meet statewide income eligibility guidelines. State agencies set these guidelines which may allow recipients to be income eligible for TEFAP via participation in other existing food, health, or social service programs for which eligibility is based on income.

Recipients of prepared meals are presumed to have low income and are not subject to a means test.

The types of foods USDA purchases for TEFAP vary depending on the preferences of state agencies and on agricultural market conditions. More than 130 nutritious, high-quality products are available. Products include canned, frozen, dried, juiced, and fresh fruits and vegetables; protein items such as meat, fish, eggs, nuts, and beans; whole and enriched grains such as rice, flour, cereals, pasta, and tortillas; and dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese. For a complete list of foods available through TEFAP, refer to the USDA Foods Available List for TEFAP.