Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025 raises benefits in most states, with notable exceptions
Starting October 1, 2024, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will see a significant increase in benefits across the contiguous 48 states and the District of Columbia, as well as in Alaska, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, due to the 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). However, Hawaii will be an exception, with a decrease in benefit amounts.
Key Benefits in Alaska:
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For a family of 4, the benefit will increase from $1,937 to $1,953.
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Families of 5 will receive up to $2,319, while households with 6 members can get up to $2,783.
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These amounts surpass the benefits for 8 members in the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia, which, after COLA, will be $1,756, and up to $3,516 for 8 members.
Benefits in Other Territories:
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Hawaii: Will see a reduction in SNAP benefits. A family of 4 will receive $517, down from $527. Larger families will also experience reduced benefits.
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Guam: Will provide up to $1,437 for families of 4, significantly higher than the $973 maximum in the 48 contiguous states. Families of 5 to 8 members can receive up to $1,707, $2,049, $2,264, and $2,588, respectively.
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U.S. Virgin Islands: Benefits will increase to up to $1,254 for a family of 4, with amounts reaching up to $2,257 for families of 8.
The changes in SNAP benefits aim to adjust food assistance to current economic conditions, though not all states and territories will see an increase.