Starting October 1, 2024, changes are coming to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that could slightly boost benefits for many households across the U.S. If you’ve been relying on SNAP payments to help cover the cost of groceries, you may see a small increase in your benefits next month, thanks to the new cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). These changes reflect the ongoing economic challenges, including rising inflation and grocery prices.
Here’s what you need to know about the changes and whether your family will benefit.
Maximum SNAP benefit amounts
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a program that has been defined earlier as Food Stamps, assists low-income individuals and families in obtaining food. Grocery prices continue to soar due to consistent inflation. In response, every year, the government effects, through legislation, a cost of living adjustment (COLA) increase in the amounts of SNAP benefits. Although the modifications for ]2024 are minor, they signify some reprieve for several households.
Effective from October 1st, 2024, the maximum SNAP benefits for households in 48 contiguous states and Washington D.C. will be as follows;
- Household of 1: $292
- Household of 2: $536
- Household of 3: $768
- Household of 4: $975
- Household of 5: $1,158
- Household of 6: $1,390
- Household of 7: $1,536
- Household of 8: $1,756
There is an increment of $220 for every additional household member.
Households that include five members, for instance, will now qualify for a monthly SNAP allowance of no more than $1,158. This is a minor rise relative to the larger changes that were effective last year when the level of inflation was worse. Nevertheless, on the positive side, this increase will still help families already feeling the impact of rising food prices.
Adjustments in Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories
In light of the higher food expenses prevalent in certain regions, the maximum benefits vary for Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands residents. For instance, starting in October, a family of four in Hawaii generating nearly $1,723 on the food stamp program each month would be an eye-watering figure compared to the continental US.
Such variations in benefit amounts are designed primarily to cater to the inherent cost differences across states between such aid, especially in regions with high food costs relative to other areas.
New work requirements for some SNAP recipients
In addition to the benefit changes, beginning from October 1, 2024, some new provisions will also be effective for certain categories of SNAP recipients. As per the Federal Fiscal Responsibility Act, some individuals will be called upon to fulfill work or education duties to retain SNAP assistance.
This change applies to a particular demographic known as Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). In the past, from 18 to 52, ABAWDs had to show proof of sufficiently working, going to school, or being in vocational training for a minimum of 80 hours each month to be eligible for SNAP benefits for over three months.
Now, the rule will also apply to adults aged fifty-three and fifty-four years. Beginning in October, work or education requirements will also be imposed upon childless adults within this age group to continue receiving these benefits. This policy change might affect many individuals at a particular quarter of the life spectrum, especially those who may struggle to be gainfully employed.
What this means for your family
For families that need to use SNAP benefits to survive, the additional benefits may provide a little help especially now when the prices for grocery items keep inflating. Although the modification is relatively smaller than what has been seen before in other years, every other dollar helps to expand your grocery budget.
In case your household size comprises five members and beyond, you may qualify for as much as $1,158 in benefits each month subject to income and other conditions. Also, ensure that you review the local policies and watch for further announcements from the State SNAP office as the implementation of these changes is expected in October.
The recent benefit increase in SNAP is accompanied by work requirements for certain recipients and marks some key changes in the feeding programs in the country.
