What to Know About Recent SNAP Changes (and Where to Find Help) 

If you or someone you know relies on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, recent legal and policy changes may affect eligibility, benefit amounts, or the timing of payments. Court rulings related to government shutdowns, for example, can delay the reloading of SNAP debit cards—sometimes taking one to two weeks—potentially impacting grocery purchases early in the month.  

About one in eight Americans rely on SNAP, so understanding changes and preparing in advance is important for maintaining food security and managing your household budget. 

Key Points About SNAP

• What it is: SNAP helps low-income individuals and families buy food using an EBT card. 
• Administration: Managed by the USDA’s Food & Nutrition Service; eligibility and benefit amounts vary by state, income, and household size. 
• Eligibility: Households must meet gross and net income limits, updated annually. 
• How it works: Benefits are loaded monthly onto an EBT card and can be used at grocery stores, some online retailers, and farmers’ markets. 
• What it covers: Fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, breads, snacks, beverages, and seeds/plants for household food. 
• Certification: Recipients must recertify at the end of their benefit period. 
• Recent changes: New federal law revised work requirements, non-citizen eligibility, reduced funding, and ended SNAPEd as of October 1. 
• State costs: States will assume more administrative costs and responsibilities in coming years. 
• Timing risks: While recent court rulings have affirmed that SNAP benefits must continue to be paid during government shutdownsgovernment shutdowns,, payment schedules could still face short delays or administrative disruptions affecting millions of Americans. 

How to Prepare

1. Stay Updated on Your State’s SNAP Announcements
   Each state’s human services department posts updates about SNAP payment schedules and eligibility changes. Check your state website or sign up for alerts to stay informed. 
2. Review Your Eligibility
   If you’re approaching a benefit renewal or facing new work requirements, revisit your eligibility status early to avoid a lapse in benefits. 
3. Budget for Possible SNAP Benefit Reductions or Delays
   Plan ahead for potential delays in benefit distribution. Building a small emergency food fund or setting aside staples can help cushion short-term disruptions. 
4. Connect with Local Food Resources 
   Food banks and community organizations can bridge shortfalls if your benefits are reduced or delayed. Use the Feeding America locator or call 211 to find nearby resources. 
5. Seek Personalized Guidance
   Local nonprofits and legal aid groups can help you navigate SNAP changes or appeal decisions if needed. Many offer free case management or application assistance. 

Trusted Resources

• USDA Food and Nutrition Service: fns.usda.gov/snap 
  The official site for program updates, eligibility tools, and state contacts. 
• Food Research & Action Center (FRAC): frac.org 
  Clear explanations of current SNAP policies, benefits, and advocacy resources. 
• State SNAP Portals: Find links to your local SNAP office at Benefits.gov. 
• Feeding America: feedingamerica.org 
  A national network of food banks offering emergency groceries and meal programs. 
• United Way 211: 211.org 
  A free, confidential helpline connecting people to local food, housing, and utility support. 

State-by-State SNAP Resources (Select Examples)

For a full state-by-state list of SNAP portals and hotlines, visit Benefits.gov. 

You Are Not Alone

Navigating changes to SNAP benefits can feel overwhelming, and we are here to offer support. GreenPath offers free financial counselingfree financial counseling to help you plan your budget, manage expenses, and access resources to maintain food security and financial stability.  

Whether it’s preparing for potential delays, understanding benefit changes, or creating a long-term plan, our NFCC-certified counselors are here to help you feel more in control.