In Florida, the distribution of benefits such as SNAP benefits, cash, and SUNCAP follows a specific schedule based on the recipient’s case number. This schedule ensures that benefits are dispersed throughout the month, from the 1st to the 28th.
The exact date when benefits become available depends on the 9th and 8th digits of the case number, read backward (the 9th number first and the 8th number after, it’s kinda weird but that’s how it works), while disregarding the 10th digit.
For instance, if the 9th and 8th digits of a case number fall between 00 and 03, the benefits are available on the 1st of the month. This pattern continues, with specific date allocations for each range of digits.
The distribution process is organized in such a way that those with digits 04-06 receive their benefits on the 2nd, those with digits 07-10 on the 3rd, and so forth, up to those with digits 96-99, who receive their benefits on the 28th.
Here is the list of SNAP benefits payment dates from August 20th to August 31st:
- August 20: Case number 9th and 8th digit: 68-71
- August 21: Case number 9th and 8th digit: 72-74
- August 22: Case number 9th and 8th digit: 75-78
- August 23: Case number 9th and 8th digit: 79-81
- August 24: Case number 9th and 8th digit: 82-85
- August 25: Case number 9th and 8th digit: 86-88
- August 26: Case number 9th and 8th digit: 89-92
- August 27: Case number 9th and 8th digit: 93-95
- August 28: Case number 9th and 8th digit: 96-99
- August 29 – 31: There are no specific payments in these dates.
SUNCAP Benefits Have a Different Schedule
For cash and SUNCAP benefits, the schedule is slightly different, with these benefits being made available between the 1st and the 3rd of each month. Specifically, if the 9th and 8th digits of a case number are between 00 and 33, benefits are distributed on the 1st; for digits 34-66, on the 2nd; and for digits 67-99, on the 3rd.
Changes Made SNAP Benefits in Florida Harder to Qualify to
However, recent developments in Florida have introduced additional challenges for SNAP beneficiaries. A newly signed bill by Governor Ron DeSantis imposes stricter requirements for the nearly 3 million Floridians who rely on SNAP benefits, formerly know as food stamps.
Under this new legislation, many beneficiaries are now required to complete a specified number of training hours each month to continue receiving their benefits. Failure to meet these requirements could result in the loss of benefits that are crucial for covering essential food expenses.
This new law is particularly impactful for beneficiaries aged 18 to 59 who do not have minors under 18 years old living in their household. These individuals must now complete at least 80 hours per month in a job training program.
The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) implemented these expanded requirements in 2023, following changes at the federal level. However, the new state law makes it more challenging to waive these requirements, even in cases of disasters or economic hardships, which could leave some beneficiaries in a difficult position.
The stricter requirements have raised concerns among SNAP beneficiaries, especially those with health issues that may prevent them from fulfilling the new obligations. For instance, Eimear Roy, who suffers from long COVID, diabetes, and heart problems, fears losing her SNAP benefits because she does not believe she can meet the new requirements. Despite her complex health condition, Roy does not qualify for Medicaid in Florida and has been denied other forms of assistance, such as Supplemental Security Income (SS). Her situation highlights the challenges faced by those who rely on SNAP benefits to maintain a healthy diet, particularly when they are also dealing with significant health issues that limit their ability to work.
Roy expressed her concern that her health conditions may prevent her from completing the required hours, which could lead to a loss of the vital assistance she currently receives for food. She shared that the only way she can manage her health is through a healthy diet, as she lacks access to adequate medical care. Roy has attempted to find part-time work, but her health issues, combined with her responsibility to care for disabled family members, make it difficult for her to meet the new training requirements. Despite these challenges, Roy remains determined to continue fighting for her benefits, though she is deeply worried about the potential loss of support.
Why Florida Opted Out of Summer EBT – SUN Bucks
In addition to the challenges posed by the new SNAP requirements, Florida has also chosen to opt out of the federal Summer EBT program, leaving $255 million in potential aid unclaimed. The Summer EBT program, also known as SUN Bucks, is designed to assist parents in covering grocery bills during the summer months when children are not receiving meals at school.
Despite the program’s potential benefits, the state of Florida, citing concerns about federal conditions attached to the aid, decided against participating. This decision has sparked concerns among local food banks, such as Feeding the Gulf Coast, which see the program as a critical tool in addressing food insecurity among children. The decision to forgo this assistance has left many questioning the state’s priorities, especially in a time when food assistance is more crucial than ever.
