The USDA has announced a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, beginning in 2024.
This adjustment is crucial for millions of families who rely on SNAP, also known as Food Stamps, to meet their basic food needs.
Let’s take a closer look at the 2025 COLA increase, which states are first to receive it, and how it affects benefit amounts.
2025 COLA Boost
COLA increases for SNAP benefits are essential for helping recipients keep up with rising living costs. For 2025, there will be a boost to the maximum SNAP benefit amounts in 48 contiguous states, Alaska, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia.
This adjustment ensures that low-income households receive enough support to afford basic groceries despite inflation.
However, not all states will see an increase. In Hawaii, there will be a reduction in SNAP benefits in 2025. This serves as a reminder that while COLA boosts are valuable, they are not guaranteed for all locations.
Who Receives the 2025 COLA First?
The COLA increase will take effect from October 1, 2024, and will be distributed throughout the month depending on the state. Below is a list of when different states will send the boosted benefits:
- October 1: Alaska, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Vermont
- October 1 to 3: Connecticut
- October 1 to 4: Wyoming
- October 1 to 5: Nebraska, New Jersey
- October 1 to 7: Virginia
- October 1 to 9: New York, Oregon, West Virginia
- October 1 to 10: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Nevada, Oklahoma, South Carolina
- October 1 to 13: Arizona
- October 1 to 14: Massachusetts
- October 1 to 15: Wisconsin
- October 1 to 19: Kentucky
- October 1 to 20: New Mexico, Tennessee, Washington
- October 1 to 22: Missouri
- October 1 to 23: Louisiana
- October 1 to 28: Florida, Texas
- First 10 business days of October: Pennsylvania
Each state follows its own schedule, but most will distribute SNAP benefits with the COLA boost throughout October 2024.
Maximum SNAP Amounts for 2025
For households in the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia, the COLA boost will slightly increase the maximum SNAP benefit. Here’s a breakdown of the new maximum benefit amounts starting October 1, 2024, and lasting through September 30, 2025:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly SNAP Benefit |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Each additional person | +$220 |
While this may seem like a modest increase, every dollar helps families stretch their food budget a little further. For a household of eight, for example, the maximum benefit will be $1,756 per month, up from previous amounts.
Each additional household member adds $220 to the monthly benefit, giving larger families more support.
Impact of COLA on Different States
While the COLA boost applies across most of the United States, some states, like Hawaii, will see a reduction in their SNAP payments.
This might come as a surprise, but it highlights the need to regularly check for updates on your state’s SNAP policies.
In contrast, states like Alaska and those in the contiguous U.S. will see an increase in benefits. This will particularly help families struggling with rising food prices due to inflation.
When Can You Expect Payments?
The payment dates for SNAP benefits, including the 2025 COLA boost, vary by state. Typically, benefits are deposited based on the recipient’s birthday or Social Security number.
For example, if your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th of the month, you might receive your boosted SNAP payment early in October, whereas others may get theirs later in the month.
If you reside in a state that spreads payments out over several days, it’s essential to know your specific payment date so you can budget accordingly.
Why the COLA Boost Matters
For many families, SNAP benefits are vital in preventing food insecurity. The COLA increase, while not huge, provides crucial financial assistance to keep pace with inflation.
For families already living paycheck-to-paycheck, even a small bump in benefits can mean the difference between affording nutritious food or relying on food banks.
If you’re a SNAP recipient, it’s essential to stay informed about these adjustments and your state’s distribution schedule. By knowing when to expect the extra support, you can plan your grocery shopping and household budget more effectively.
FAQs
When will the 2025 COLA boost for SNAP start?
The COLA boost will take effect on October 1, 2024.
Which states are first to receive the 2025 COLA?
Alaska, Rhode Island, Vermont, and North Dakota will send benefits starting October 1.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for a household of 4 in 2025?
The maximum benefit is $975 per month for a household of four.
Will SNAP benefits increase in Hawaii in 2025?
No, SNAP benefits will decrease in Hawaii in 2025.
How much extra SNAP benefit will I get per additional household member?
Each additional household member adds $220 to the monthly benefit.
