Posted by As this this month being, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients, formerly known as food stamp recipients, will see a small increase in their monthly benefits. This is as a result of high cost-of-living adjustment which will provide SNAP households with a few extra dollars per month.
However, the increase will be more significant for those living in Hawaii, Alaska, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam, where food prices are higher. Furthermore, the income eligibility threshold for a family of four will rise from $2,500 to $2,600 per month.
SNAP Benefit Increases in October
SNAP, which is formerly called the Food Stamp Program, is designed to help low-income people and families pay for groceries. In order to get SNAP benefits, you must apply in the state in which you currently live and there are certain requirements you must meet, including resource and income limits. However, SNAP income and resource limits are updated annually.
The monthly benefits vary by household size. These are the new benefit amounts for families living in the 48 contiguous states and Washington DC:
- Household size of 1: $292 (up from $291)
- Household size of 2: $536 (up from $535)
- Household size of 3: $768 (up from $766)
- Household size of 4: $975 (up from $973)
- Household size of 5: $1,158 (up from $1,155)
- Household size of 6: $1,390 (up from $1,386)
- Household size of 7: $1,536 (up from $1,532)
- Household size of 8: $1,756 (up from $1,751)
Adding another person to the household would increase the monthly SNAP benefit by $220. The previous year’s cost-of-living adjustments were more significant due to higher inflation rates. Food prices in August 2024 had risen approximately 2% compared to the previous year.
In regions with higher food costs, such as Hawaii, Alaska, the Virgin Islands, and Guam, the maximum SNAP benefit amounts are adjusted accordingly. For instance, a four-person household in Hawaii can receive up to $1,723 to help cover their food expenses.
The SNAP benefit amount you receive is determined by your household’s income and assets. This year, the income threshold for qualifying has been lowered compared to the previous year.