We have a new adjustment for 2025 and that is that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will experience a major change to help American families cope with the rising food costs due to the inflation we are experiencing. Starting in October 2024, beneficiaries of this check will receive an increase in monthly payments, a result of the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) approved by the government.
Not only will it be an economic relief, but a measure that helps alleviate the effects of inflation on basic necessities, which, for many American families, become inaccessible.
Why will the COLA adjustment be applied to this SNAP check?
The COLA is a mechanism used annually to adjust government benefits, including Social Security and SNAP, to reflect changes in the cost of living. Translated, this means that it is an extra that is added to social security payments so that families do not notice the ravages of inflation when they consume basic goods (which are mainly food, housing and health expenses). Therefore, it represents a real economic help that is added to other checks such as, in this case, SNAP.
While inflation continues to affect the pockets and wallets of millions of American households, SNAP and its increase seek to reduce the economic gap of many families for whom acquiring adequate and balanced nutrition is practically impossible.
What amounts will change in SNAP?
Starting last October 2024, households receiving this check will see specific increases in their monthly payments, which will vary depending on the number of family members:
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,158
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
- For each additional person: $220
State distribution of this check
Although the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) establishes the national guidelines for the program, it will depend on each state how to distribute this check. This means that the exact amounts may vary depending on the state in which you are located, especially in regions where the cost of living is much higher, for example, states such as California or New York, where food is more expensive, could implement additional benefits for their residents.
Background on the SNAP Increase
This increase comes at a critical time, where prices for basic foods for a balanced diet (such as meat, dairy, and fruits and vegetables) have been steadily increasing due to several global factors, including, of course, the inflation we are experiencing. This adjustment will allow beneficiaries to:
- Cover a greater part of their food needs.
- Reduce the impact of inflation on their monthly budget.
- Improve access to healthy, quality food.
Who will benefit from this increase?
- The increase in SNAP payments will primarily benefit:
- Low-income families.
- Households with young children or elderly or dependent adults.
- People with disabilities who rely on food assistance.
How to apply or update your eligibility for SNAP
To apply for your SNAP credit, you must complete the following steps:
- Personal identification, proof of income and expenses.
- Application methods: Each state provides online, in-person, by phone, or by mail options, depending on local infrastructure.
- Interview: The eligibility interview is a common step to confirm the information provided during the application.
- EBT card: Once benefits are approved, the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card is the official means of distributing SNAP funds.
Please note that SNAP benefits are replenished monthly and can only be used for basic food items such as fruits, vegetables, meat, grains, and dairy products. If you have questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact your local SNAP office in your state or check out the options available online.