The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly referred to as food stamps, provides monthly financial aid to low-income families across the United States to help them purchase essential groceries.
This November, SNAP benefits will be issued until November 28, 2024, which will be the final disbursement date for recipients in a couple of states. Let’s break down the payment schedule, updates on online purchasing, and the impact of the 2025 COLA increase.
Payment Schedule
Each state administers its own SNAP program and sets the distribution dates for benefits. While some states disburse all their benefits at the start of the month, others spread the payments throughout November. Knowing the specific date when your state issues SNAP benefits can help you plan your monthly grocery budget effectively.
Payments
Four states issued all their SNAP benefits on November 1:
- Alaska
- Vermont
- Rhode Island
- North Dakota
If you live in one of these states, your SNAP payment was already loaded onto your EBT card at the beginning of the month.
Payment Dates
Here are the payment dates for states issuing SNAP benefits during the second half of November:
| State | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | November 4 to 23 |
| Delaware | November 2 to 23 |
| Florida | November 1 to 28 |
| Georgia | November 5 to 23 |
| Indiana | November 5 to 23 |
| Kentucky | November 1 to 19 |
| Louisiana | November 1 to 23 |
| Maine | November 10 to 14 |
| Maryland | November 4 to 23 |
| Massachusetts | November 1 to 14 |
| Michigan | November 3 to 21 |
| Minnesota | November 4 to 13 |
| Mississippi | November 4 to 21 |
| Missouri | November 1 to 22 |
| New Mexico | November 1 to 20 |
| North Carolina | November 3 to 21 |
| Ohio | November 2 to 20 |
| Tennessee | November 1 to 20 |
| Texas | November 1 to 28 |
| Utah | November 11 and 15 |
| Washington | November 1 to 20 |
| Wisconsin | November 1 to 15 |
For recipients in these states, knowing your payment schedule is crucial for managing your household expenses and planning grocery shopping trips.
SNAP Benefits
Yes, SNAP benefits can now be used for online grocery shopping in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, which began in New York in April 2019, has since expanded nationwide, making it easier for recipients to access groceries without visiting a physical store. Here are the main points:
- Participating Retailers: Major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, ShopRite, and others accept SNAP EBT cards for online purchases. The availability of retailers may vary by state, so check the options specific to your location.
- How It Works: To use SNAP benefits online, shop through the retailer’s website. At checkout, enter your EBT card PIN to pay for eligible food items.
- Eligible Purchases: The same rules apply for online purchases as in-store shopping. SNAP benefits cannot be used for delivery fees, service charges, or non-food items.
- Delivery Availability: Delivery options depend on your area. Check the retailer’s website to see if delivery is available in your zip code.
This expansion has provided greater flexibility and convenience for SNAP recipients, especially for those with limited mobility or access to transportation.
COLA Increase
Starting October 1, 2024, SNAP payments include the 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), designed to help offset rising inflation. The COLA increase has raised the maximum payment amounts, which will remain in effect through September 30, 2025.
Here’s a breakdown of the maximum monthly SNAP benefit amounts after the 2025 COLA:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 (Individual) | Up to $292 |
| 2 (Couple) | Up to $536 |
| 3 | Up to $766 |
| 4 | Up to $975 |
| 5 | Up to $1,155 |
| 6 | Up to $1,386 |
| 7 | Up to $1,532 |
| 8 | Up to $1,756 |
| Additional Member | +$220 per person |
These adjustments ensure that families receive adequate support despite rising food prices, helping them to maintain access to nutritious meals.
Tips for Maximizing
- Check Your Payment Schedule: Know when your state issues SNAP benefits to plan your grocery shopping accordingly.
- Utilize Online Shopping: Take advantage of the online purchasing option for easier access to groceries.
- Follow Eligibility Guidelines: Ensure you comply with all SNAP rules to continue receiving benefits.
- Contact Local SNAP Office: If you face any issues or have questions, your local SNAP office can provide assistance.
FAQs
When does the last SNAP payment of November occur?
The last SNAP payment for November is on November 28.
Can I use SNAP benefits for online grocery shopping?
Yes, SNAP benefits can be used online in all 50 states.
Which states completed SNAP payments on November 1?
Alaska, Vermont, Rhode Island, and North Dakota finished payments on November 1.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for a family of four?
A family of four can receive up to $975 per month.
Do SNAP benefits include the 2025 COLA increase?
Yes, all SNAP payments include the 2025 COLA increase from October 1, 2024.
