The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a critical aid for low-income families struggling to cover food costs. In September 2024, SNAP recipients in six states can receive up to $766 for households of three members.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the schedule for these payments, with the final disbursement for maximum benefits in the 48 contiguous states this month.
Additionally, new rules for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18-54 will require recipients to work for at least 80 hours per month to continue receiving benefits beyond three months in a three-year period. This rule now applies to those aged 53 and 54 as well.
SNAP Payments
Families and households in the following six states can expect to receive their SNAP benefits through September 23:
- Alabama: Payments are distributed from September 4-23 based on the case number.
- Delaware: Payments are sent from September 2-23 based on the first letter of the recipient’s last name.
- Georgia: Benefits are distributed from September 5-23 based on the last two digits of the recipient’s ID.
- Indiana: Payments are delivered from September 5-23 using the first letter of the recipient’s last name.
- Louisiana: Benefits are sent from September 1-23 based on the last digit of the recipient’s Social Security number (SSN).
- Maryland: Payments are distributed from September 4-23 based on the first three letters of the recipient’s last name.
Payment Amount
For September 2024, eligible three-member households in these six states can receive up to $766 in SNAP benefits. However, this maximum amount is reserved for families with no other income or financial resources.
Many households receive less than this amount, with the average being around $598, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP). The $766 payment is the maximum for the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia.
To qualify for the full $766, households must have extremely limited or no earnings, resources, or other benefits that could reduce their eligibility. Factors such as additional income or savings may reduce the SNAP benefit a family receives.
Changes
September 2024 marks the final month when three-member families can receive the maximum $766 in benefits. Starting October 1, 2024, this amount will increase slightly to $768 due to the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that accounts for inflation. While this adjustment offers only a $2 increase, it reflects ongoing efforts to help SNAP beneficiaries keep up with rising living expenses.
ABAWDs
Another major change impacting SNAP recipients is the stricter work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). Starting this year, recipients aged 18-54 must work or participate in a qualifying work program for at least 80 hours per month to receive SNAP benefits beyond a three-month limit over a three-year period. Previously, this rule applied to individuals aged 18-49, but now it includes those aged 53 and 54 as well.
The work requirement applies to ABAWDs who do not have dependents and are not exempt due to disability, caregiving responsibilities, or other qualifying factors. Failing to meet the work requirement could lead to the loss of benefits after the three-month period.
Who Is Eligible
To receive the full $766 in SNAP benefits, households must meet specific income and resource criteria. The amount a family receives depends on their financial situation, including earnings, assets, and other government benefits. Generally, families with no other sources of income or financial assistance are more likely to qualify for the maximum benefit.
Eligibility is determined by state SNAP offices, which assess each household’s circumstances. In most cases, reductions occur when households have income from employment, Social Security, unemployment benefits, or other resources.
SNAP Adjustments
As September draws to a close, it’s important for recipients to stay informed about upcoming changes to the program. While the slight increase to $768 beginning in October may not seem significant, it underscores the program’s ongoing efforts to adjust benefits to account for inflation and other economic factors.
For those who depend on SNAP benefits, it’s essential to monitor income, work requirements, and any new eligibility criteria. Recipients should ensure their personal and financial information is up to date with their state SNAP offices to avoid any disruptions in benefits.
FAQs
How much can a three-member household receive in SNAP benefits?
A maximum of $766 in September 2024, depending on income and resources.
Which states are sending SNAP benefits until September 23?
Alabama, Delaware, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, and Maryland.
When will the maximum SNAP benefit increase?
Starting October 1, 2024, the maximum will increase to $768.
What are the work requirements for ABAWDs?
Able-bodied adults aged 18-54 must work at least 80 hours monthly to continue receiving benefits.
Why do some families receive less than $766 in SNAP benefits?
The amount depends on household income, assets, and other resources.
