As 2025 begins, it’s the perfect time to reevaluate your budget, considering adjustments to both income and expenses. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has made annual updates to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program. These updates, which went into effect on October 1, 2024, reflect the changes in the cost of living (COLA), which helps ensure families can maintain a basic standard of living.
Here’s what you need to know about SNAP benefits and eligibility for 2025:
SNAP Adjustments for 2025
For fiscal year 2025, the FNS has raised maximum allotments and housing limits for most states and territories, with some notable variations:
- 48 states and Washington D.C.: The maximum monthly benefit for a family of four will be $975.
- Hawaii: The maximum benefit for a family of four is $1,723, a decrease from previous amounts.
- Alaska: The maximum allocation for a family of four ranges from $1,258 to $1,953, depending on the region.
- Guam: A family of four will be eligible for a maximum of $1,437.
- U.S. Virgin Islands: The maximum benefit for a family of four is $1,254.
Minimum SNAP Benefits
In the 48 contiguous states and Washington D.C., the minimum monthly SNAP benefit will remain at $23. However, other areas like Alaska and Hawaii have slightly higher minimum payments, ranging from $30 to $47 in Alaska, and $41 in Hawaii.
Eligibility Criteria for SNAP
To qualify for SNAP, applicants must meet certain income and family size requirements. Benefits are generally based on net income, which is the gross income minus allowable deductions. The amount families receive also varies depending on their location.
Also Read – Social Security Payments This Week: Up to $5,108 for Eligible Retirees
How Much Will You Get per Person?
Here are the new maximum SNAP benefits for 2025 for the 48 contiguous states and D.C., effective from October 2024 to September 2025:
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,158
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
- Each additional person: $220
These figures reflect the adjustments based on COLA to help households meet rising food costs. Families will see these updated amounts in their monthly benefits, which can be used to purchase eligible food items.
As always, it’s essential to stay informed about the updates to SNAP benefits to ensure you’re maximizing your eligibility. Keep track of any changes and adjust your budget accordingly as you begin the new year.
