Get ready for changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps. Starting in October, millions of Americans will see adjustments to their benefits.
Key Changes
- Work Requirements: Individuals aged 18 to 54 without dependents or disabilities must work at least 80 hours per month to maintain benefits.
- Reduced Benefits: Failure to meet work requirements could result in reduced or terminated benefits after three months.
- State Variations: SNAP benefits vary by state, so it’s essential to check your local guidelines.
Who Might Be Affected?
- Individuals aged 50-54: Approximately 750,000 people in this age group may lose benefits due to the stricter work requirements.
- Low-Income Workers: Those with irregular work schedules or limited job opportunities may find it challenging to meet the 80-hour requirement.
Understanding SNAP Benefits
SNAP provides financial assistance to low-income families to help purchase food. The amount of benefits you receive depends on your household size and income.
Average Monthly Benefits
- 1 member: $292
- 2 members: $536
- 3 members: $768
- 4 members: $975
- 5 members: $1,158
- 6 members: $1,390
- 7 members: $1,536
- 8 members: $1,756
State Variations
Benefit amounts can vary significantly between states. Some states have higher maximum benefit levels, while others may have additional restrictions.
When will states send September SNAP benefits?
| State | Payment date |
| Alabama | September 4-23 |
| Alaska | September 1 |
| Arizona | September 1-13 |
| Arkansas | September 4-13 |
| California | September 1-10 |
| Colorado | September 1-10 |
| Connecticut | September 1-3 |
| Delaware | September 2-23 |
| District of Columbia | September 1-13 |
| Florida | September 1-28 |
| Georgia | September 5-23 |
| Guam | September 1-10 |
| Hawaii | September 3-5 |
| Idaho | September 1-15 |
| Illinois | September 1-20 |
| Indiana | September 5-23 |
| Iowa | September 1-10 |
| Kansas | September 1-10 |
| Kentucky | September 1-19 |
| Louisiana | September 1-23 |
| Maine | September 10-14 |
| Maryland | September 4-23 |
| Massachusetts | September 1-14 |
| Michigan | September 3-21 |
| Minnesota | September 4-13 |
| Mississippi | September 4-21 |
| Missouri | September 1-22 |
| Montana | September 2-6 |
| Nebraska | September 1-5 |
| Nevada | September 1-10 |
| New Hampshire | September 5 |
| New Jersey | September 1-5 |
| New Mexico | September 1-20 |
| New York | September 1-9 |
| North Carolina | September 3-21 |
| North Dakota | September 1 |
| Ohio | September 2-20 |
| Oklahoma | September 1-10 |
| Oregon | September 1-9 |
| Pennsylvania | September 3-14 |
| Puerto Rico | September 4-22 |
| Rhode Island | September 1 |
| South Carolina | September 1-19 |
| South Dakota | September 1-9 |
| Tennessee | September 1-20 |
| Utah | September 5, 11, and 15 |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | September 1 |
| Vermont | September 1 |
| Virginia | September 1-7 |
| Washington | September 1-20 |
| West Virginia | September 1-9 |
| Wisconsin | September 1-15 |
| Wyoming | September 1-4 |
Stay Informed
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on SNAP benefits in your state, contact your local SNAP office or visit the SNAP website.
