The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will continue to disburse monthly benefits through November 28, 2024, with some recipients in two states receiving their last payments on that date.
It’s essential to note that each state administers its own schedule for distributing Food Stamps and manages the application process independently to support low-income households in the U.S.
States That Completed SNAP Distributions Early in November
Several states have already finished distributing SNAP benefits for the month. Notably, Alaska, Vermont, Rhode Island, and North Dakota completed their payments on November 1.
SNAP Benefit Distribution Dates: November 15-28
Understanding when your state disburses SNAP benefits can help you plan your budget and grocery shopping. It’s also important to remember that you can only receive SNAP benefits in the state where you currently reside, and eligibility is restricted to one program per household.
Below is a detailed schedule of the SNAP payment dates for various states:
| State | SNAP Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | November 4 to 23 |
| Delaware | November 2 to 23 |
| Florida | November 1 to 28 |
| Georgia | November 5 to 23 |
| Indiana | November 5 to 23 |
| Kentucky | November 1 to 19 |
| Louisiana | November 1 to 23 |
| Maryland | November 4 to 23 |
| Michigan | November 3 to 21 |
| Mississippi | November 4 to 21 |
| Missouri | November 1 to 22 |
| New Mexico | November 1 to 20 |
| North Carolina | November 3 to 21 |
| Ohio | November 2 to 20 |
| Tennessee | November 1 to 20 |
| Texas | November 1 to 28 |
| Utah | November 11 and 15 |
| Washington | November 1 to 20 |
| Wisconsin | November 1 to 15 |
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP Benefits Vary by State
While SNAP is a federal program, states have the flexibility to adjust certain rules, leading to differences in eligibility requirements and benefit amounts. Here are some key factors that may impact your eligibility:
- Income Limits: Generally, households must meet both gross and net income thresholds. For the 2024-2025 period, the gross income limit is 130% of the federal poverty level, while the net limit is 100% after allowable deductions.
- Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility (BBCE): Most states have implemented BBCE, allowing them to align SNAP guidelines with their TANF-funded programs. This adjustment often raises income and resource limits, making more families eligible for benefits.
- Resource Limits: The asset limit is typically $3,000 for most households, increasing to $4,500 if the household includes elderly or disabled members. However, many assets like homes and retirement accounts are excluded in the calculation. States with BBCE may have even higher thresholds.
- Work Requirements for ABAWDs: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) must meet certain work requirements to maintain benefits. However, states with high unemployment can request waivers for these provisions.
- Average Benefit Differences by State: In 2023, the average monthly benefit per household member was $157 in Minnesota compared to $385 in Hawaii, reflecting variances in cost of living and state-specific policies.
Can You Use SNAP Benefits for Online Grocery Shopping?
Yes, you can use SNAP benefits for online grocery shopping nationwide. Here’s what you need to know:
- The SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, which began in April 2019 in New York, has expanded to all 50 states except two territories (Guam and the Virgin Islands) by September 2024.
- Major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and ShopRite are part of this initiative, although availability may vary by state.
- To utilize SNAP benefits online, simply shop on the participating retailer’s website. At checkout, securely enter your EBT card PIN to pay for eligible items.
- Only approved grocery items can be purchased with SNAP benefits online. Note that delivery fees and other extra charges are not covered.
- Check directly with retailer websites to confirm if delivery is available in your area, as it depends on whether the retailer offers a full range of groceries, including perishables, in your zip code.
SNAP Benefit Amounts with the 2025 COLA Adjustment
Starting October 1, 2024, all SNAP benefits have been adjusted to reflect the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). These updated amounts will remain effective through September 30, 2025.
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $292 |
| 2 People | $536 |
| 4 People | $975 |
| 8 People | $1,756 |
| Each Additional Person | +$220 |
If your household is struggling with food expenses, consider applying for SNAP benefits to receive much-needed assistance.
