In Florida, nearly three million residents rely on SNAP benefits to purchase groceries and feed their families. However, with the recent changes to the program, many are wondering who is eligible to receive July’s payment. In this article, we will explore the eligibility criteria for Florida SNAP benefits payment and what recipients can expect in July.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for SNAP benefits in Florida, applicants must meet certain requirements, including:
- Income limits: Households must have a gross income at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For a family of four, this translates to a monthly income of $3,250 or less.
- Resource limits: Households may have up to $2,750 in countable resources, such as cash or money in a bank account. This amount increases to $4,250 for households with at least one member aged 60 or older or with a disability.
- Work requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) must work at least 20 hours per week or participate in an approved work program.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified aliens.
New Requirements
As of July 1, 2023, the temporary student exemptions for SNAP benefits are no longer available. Students attending an institution of higher education more than half-time are only eligible for SNAP if they meet an exemption, such as being under 18 or 50 or older, physically or mentally unfit, or working at least 20 hours per week. This change may affect some students who were previously eligible for SNAP benefits.
Who is Eligible for July’s Payment in Florida?
If you are currently receiving SNAP benefits in Florida and meet the eligibility criteria, you will likely receive July’s payment. However, it’s important to note that the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) may request additional information or verification to ensure ongoing eligibility.
New applicants can expect to receive benefits within 30 days of submitting their application. If approved, benefits will be issued on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card.
SNAP Benefits Distribution Dates In Florida
SNAP benefits in Florida will be distributed from July 1 to July 28. The exact date depends on the recipient’s case number, with different digits corresponding to different dates. You can check the Providers App to estimate when you’ll receive your benefits. Here are the dates for SNAP benefits distribution in Florida for July, organized by case number:
- Case numbers 00-09: July 1-3
- Case numbers 10-19: July 4-6
- Case numbers 20-29: July 7-9
- Case numbers 30-39: July 10-12
- Case numbers 40-49: July 13-15
- Case numbers 50-59: July 16-18
- Case numbers 60-69: July 19-21
- Case numbers 70-79: July 22-24
- Case numbers 80-89: July 25-27
- Case numbers 90-99: July 28
Please note that these dates are subject to change.
Changes to SNAP Benefits
As of October 1, 2023, the income eligibility limits for SNAP benefits increased. The new limits are as follows:
- Household size 1: $1,580 gross monthly income (130% FPL)
- Household size 2: $2,137 gross monthly income (130% FPL)
- Household size 3: $2,694 gross monthly income (130% FPL)
- Household size 4: $3,250 gross monthly income (130% FPL)
- Household size 5: $3,807 gross monthly income (130% FPL)
- Household size 6: $4,364 gross monthly income (130% FPL)
- Household size 7: $4,921 gross monthly income (130% FPL)
- Household size 8: $5,478 gross monthly income (130% FPL)
Each additional member: +$557 gross monthly income (130% FPL)
Work Requirements
In general, people must meet work requirements to be eligible for SNAP. These work requirements include:
- Registering for work
- Not voluntarily quitting a job or reducing hours
- Taking a job if offered
- Participating in employment and training programs, if assigned by the state
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in disqualification from the program. Able-bodied adults without dependents are required to work or participate in a work program for at least 20 hours per week in order to receive SNAP benefits for more than 3 months in a 36-month period.
