NEW YORK – The amount of increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding, better known as “food stamps,” starting October 1 will depend on household composition, family size, and age. income level.
Starting next month, SNAP benefits will increase by 12.5% for 12 months compared to the previous year.
The change is in response to the USDA updating the Thrifty Food Plan to align with the cost of living.
The amount of SNAP benefits households will receive is based on this measurement.
“The USDA calculates the Thifty Food Budget Plan using a mathematical model or equation based on food costs, nutrition guides, and what Americans eat,” the USDA explains on its website.
Below are the new maximum monthly amounts that will apply in most states and Washington DC disclosed by the USDA:
Household with 1 person – $291
Household with 2 people – $535
Household with 3 people – $766
Household with 4 people – $973
Household with 5 people – $1,155
Household with 6 people – $1,386
Household with 7 people – $1,532
Household with 8 people – $1,751
For each additional person, $219 is added. The minimum benefit amount remains the same: $23 per month.
For Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, and the US Virgin Islands, maximum benefits may be higher. In Alaska, for example, they could be $1,937 for a family of four; in Hawaii up to $1,759.
Starting October 1, income eligibility amounts will also change. For most states and DC, anyone who makes less than the numbers below qualifies for a certain amount of benefits:
Household with 1 person – $1,580
Household with 2 people – $2,137
Household with 3 people – $2,694
Household with 4 people – $3,250
Household with 5 people – $3,807
Household with 6 people – $4,364
Household with 7 people – $4,921
Household with 8 people – $5,478
On October 1, the work requirements for SNAP eligibility also change again
Aside from the increase in the amount of benefits for purchasing food, the work requirements for SNAP eligibility changed as of this month.
In a phased manner, the age ranges for able-bodied adults who do not have dependents (ABAWD) and who apply for SNAP will increase.
On September 1, the first changes came into effect, establishing that potential beneficiaries between the ages of 18-50 must demonstrate that they work at least 80 hours a month to receive food funds or that they are enrolled in an education or job training program. . If that is not the case, they will only be able to receive funds from the program for three months in a period of 36 months or three years, unless they are part of the exempt populations in the new law.
On October 1, the age range increases to 52; and that same day but in 2024, at 54.
Keep reading:
Why will SNAP benefits increase for 12 months starting next October 1?
SNAP Food Stamps: The Two Key Changes Going into Effect October 1
SNAP food stamps: the five key dates of the new work requirements to receive federal aid