The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest federal program in the United States aimed at combating hunger and food insecurity among low-income families. Approximately 42 million people benefit from this program each month, which equates to an investment of $113 billion, approximately 1.84% of the federal budget. This allows millions of families to purchase essential food items.
SNAP benefits, popularly known as food stamps, are transferred to families through debit cards, which can be used at various retail stores to purchase nutritious food. Each household receives an average of $211.53 per month, or $52.88 per week, to help supplement their grocery budget.
However, it is important to remember that while SNAP provides significant support, families still must cover approximately 30% of their food expenses on their own. This program is designed to provide vital support to households with limited income and assets, bringing greater benefits to those who need it most, helping to reduce poverty and improve the health and well-being of America’s families.
How does SNAP work?
SNAP is a government program in the United States designed to help low-income individuals and families purchase basic food items. Each state oversees its own food assistance program and establishes a specific payment schedule. Although the government provides federal funding for this initiative, each state issues an EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card to eligible individuals who apply.
EBT cards function as debit cards and are funded monthly with food stamp benefits. Through SNAP, beneficiaries receive a monthly amount that is deposited on this card, which can be used at approved stores and supermarkets to purchase essential items such as fruits, vegetables, meats and dairy.
It is essential to be informed about the dates of the deposits to plan your purchases and make sure that your household does not run out of food. Below is the payment schedule for October 2024, so you will know when you will receive your food assistance.
How much money will they receive in food stamps in October?
Beginning October 1, 2024, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients will see an increase in their maximum benefit allotments. This annual adjustment is made to ensure that purchasing power is not affected by inflation. Although food prices continue to rise, the increase in benefits is also reflected, although not as significantly.
The new maximum benefit amounts, which will be in effect through September 30, 2025, are as follows for the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia:
| Household members | SNAP benefit amount |
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Additional person | $220 |
It is important to note that approximately 36% of households receiving assistance through SNAP are eligible for the maximum monthly allowance.
However, some states will experience higher amounts. For example, in Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Alaska, and Hawaii, benefits are higher due to living costs. Below is a comparison of the maximum benefits in these locations:
| Household members | Guam | Virgin Islands | Alaska (average) | Hawaii |
| 1 | $431 | $376 | $481 | $517 |
| 2 | $790 | $689 | $883 | $948 |
| 3 | $1,132 | $987 | $1,264 | $1,357 |
| 4 | $1,437 | $1,254 | $1,605 | $1,723 |
| 5 | $1,707 | $1,489 | $1,906 | $2,406 |
| 6 | $2,049 | $1,787 | $2,288 | $2,456 |
| 7 | $2,264 | $1,975 | $2,528 | $2,714 |
| 8 | $2,588 | $2,257 | $2,890 | $3,102 |
| Additional person | $324 | $282 | $361 | $388 |
Cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) are especially relevant this year, as in August 2024, food prices were 2% higher compared to the previous year. For example, in Hawaii, a family of four can receive up to $1,723 per month to help cover their food expenses.
SNAP Payment Schedule in October
In October 2024, SNAP recipients will receive their food stamps on different dates, depending on the state in which they reside. Each state has its own monthly schedule for distributing benefits, and it is important for recipients to check with their state’s SNAP agency for the specific date.
How do I know when I will receive my benefits? The date you will receive your benefits may vary by state and the method each jurisdiction uses. Some agencies determine payment dates based on the last digit of the case identification number or by the beneficiary’s last name. Therefore, it is recommended that you verify this specific information with your state SNAP agency for accurate data.
Below is a detailed summary of payment dates for each state:
| State | Payment Dates |
| Alabama | October 4 to 23 |
| Alaska | October 1 |
| Arizona | October 1 to 13 |
| Arkansas | October 4 to 13 |
| California | October 1 to 10 |
| Colorado | October 1 to 10 |
| Connecticut | October 1 to 3 |
| Delaware | October 2 to 23 |
| District of Columbia | October 1 to 10 |
| Florida | October 1 to 28 |
| Georgia | October 5 to 23 |
| Guam | October 1 to 10 |
| Hawaii | October 3 to 5 |
| Idaho | October 1 to 10 |
| Illinois | October 1 to 20 |
| Indiana | October 5 to 23 |
| Iowa | October 1 to 10 |
| Kansas | October 1 to 10 |
| Kentucky | October 1 to 19 |
| Louisiana | October 1 to 23 |
| Maine | October 10 to 14 |
| Maryland | October 4 to 23 |
| Massachusetts | October 1 to 14 |
| Michigan | October 3 to 21 |
| Minnesota | October 4 to 13 |
| Mississippi | October 4 to 21 |
| Missouri | October 1 to 22 |
| Montana | October 2 to 6 |
| Nebraska | October 1 to 5 |
| Nevada | October 1 to 10 |
| New Hampshire | October 5 |
| New Jersey | October 1 to 5 |
| New Mexico | October 1 to 20 |
| New York | October 1 to 9 |
| North Carolina | October 3 to 21 |
| North Dakota | October 1 |
| Ohio | October 2 to 20 |
| Oklahoma | October 1 to 10 |
| Oregon | October 1 to 9 |
| Pennsylvania | October 3 to 14 |
| Puerto Rico | October 4 to 22 |
| Rhode Island | October 1 |
| South Carolina | October 1 to 19 |
| South Dakota | October 10 |
| Tennessee | October 1 to 20 |
| Texas | October 1 to 28 |
| Utah | October 5, 11, and 15 |
| Vermont | October 1 |
| Virgin Islands | October 1 |
| Virginia | October 1 to 7 |
| Washington | October 1 to 20 |
| West Virginia | October 1 to 9 |
| Wisconsin | October 1 to 15 |
| Wyoming | October 1 to 4 |
It is recommended that recipients research and contact the regional office of the state in which they reside to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information about their payments.
Difficulties receiving food stamps
Families who frequently switch back and forth between eligible and ineligible face some of the greatest challenges in accessing food stamps. This back-and-forth can create a frustrating cycle in which applicants spend time, money, and effort to be accepted, only to lose that eligibility shortly thereafter.
Some of the common obstacles are:
- Income fluctuations: Changes in work, such as getting a temporary job or receiving more hours, can cause them to exceed income limits and therefore lose benefits.
- Lack of information: They are not always aware of the requirements or how the system works, which can lead to poorly made or incomplete applications.
- Complicated process: The bureaucracy can be overwhelming. Gathering documents, attending interviews and meeting deadlines can be challenging, especially for those already struggling.
- Stigma effect: Some families are embarrassed to ask for help, leading them to not apply for vouchers, even when they need them.
As a result, many families do not receive the assistance they really need. While they may qualify at first, a change in their income can cause them to lose those benefits, which can leave them food insecure.