The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is one of the United States’ most important initiatives to combat food insecurity. This program provides financial assistance to families with limited resources to help them access healthy and nutritious foods. Since its implementation, SNAP has played a crucial role in improving the diet and quality of life of hundreds of millions of Americans.
To determine a household’s SNAP benefits allocation, the formula of multiplying the household’s net monthly income by 0.3 and subtracting that result from the monthly maximum based on household size is used. This method ensures that assistance is tailored to each family’s financial circumstances, thus providing the necessary support to meet their food needs.
SNAP Availability in the USA and eligibility criteria
SNAP is available in all states, including U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and Guam, although specific benefits may vary in some places. To access benefits, households must meet certain eligibility criteria, including income and resource levels.
Specifically, households must have incomes that are below 130% of the federal poverty line. Additionally, certain household assets are considered when calculating eligibility, although some assets are not counted, such as a primary residence and a vehicle used to transport household members.
The program is not only aimed at families with children, but can also benefit older adults, people with disabilities and certain immigrant groups who meet the requirements. To qualify, applicants must submit a formal application to the local SNAP office, where their financial and personal situation will be evaluated. The application process can be completed online, by phone, or in person, and typically includes an interview to verify the information provided.
Maximum profits have grown since October 2024
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) increased benefits last October, based on the cost of living adjustment (COLA), which was 2.5% for fiscal year 2025. These are the maximum values, and are not necessarily the that will be assigned to you (maybe less). These amounts will be valid until September 30, 2025, the day they will be updated based on a new COLA:
- 1 member: $292
- 2 members: $536
- 3 members: $768
- 4 members: $975
- 5 members: $1,158
- 6 members: $1,390
- 7 members: $1,536
- 8 members: $1,756
- Additional member: +$220
What if your SNAP benefits didn’t arrive on time
If your SNAP benefits didn’t arrive on time, don’t panic: something could be causing the delay and we can review the options you have to find your money one by one. First, check your state’s SNAP payment schedule to make sure your payment was scheduled for the expected date. If you confirm that the date has passed, contact your local SNAP office immediately.
You can do this by calling the Department of Agriculture hotline at 1-866-348-6479 (English) or 1-877-842-6273 (Spanish), or by visiting your nearest local SNAP office, preferably the one where you took your application process.
