As September approaches, millions of households across the United States are eagerly awaiting their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed the schedule for these payments, which will be distributed across all 50 states, as well as Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia.
When your benefits arrive depends on your state or territory, and the amount can vary based on location due to cost-of-living adjustments. Let’s break down the key details.
Payment Schedule
SNAP payments are typically distributed at different times throughout the month, depending on where you live. Here’s a rundown of when you can expect your Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to be reloaded in September:
- September 1 Only: Alaska, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Vermont
- September 1-3: Connecticut
- September 1-4: Wyoming
- September 1-5: Nebraska, New Jersey
- September 1-9: New York, Oregon, West Virginia
- September 1-10: California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Nevada, Oklahoma, South Carolina
- September 1-13: Arizona, Arkansas, Minnesota
- September 1-14: Maine, Massachusetts
- September 1-15: Wisconsin
- September 1-19: Kentucky
- September 1-20: New Mexico, Tennessee, Washington
- September 1-22: Missouri
- September 1-23: Alabama, Delaware, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland
- September 1-28: Florida, Texas
- September 2-6: Montana
- September 2-20: Ohio
- September 3-5: Hawaii
- September 3-21: Michigan, North Carolina
- September 4-13: Arkansas, Minnesota
- September 4-21: Mississippi
- September 5 Only: New Hampshire
- September 5, 11, and 15: Utah
- September 10 Only: South Dakota
- First 10 Business Days: Pennsylvania
For residents in Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia, the schedule is as follows:
- Guam: September 1-10
- Puerto Rico: September 4-22
- District of Columbia: September 1-10
- U.S. Virgin Islands: September 1
SNAP Benefits
The amount you receive in SNAP benefits isn’t the same across the board; it varies based on where you live. States like Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands generally provide higher benefits due to the higher cost of living in these areas.
Maximum SNAP Benefits
For the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C., the maximum monthly SNAP allotment for a family of four is $973 as of October 1, 2023. Here’s how that compares to other locations:
- Alaska: Maximum allotments range from $1,248 to $1,937, depending on the region.
- Guam: Maximum allotment is $1,434.
- U.S. Virgin Islands: Maximum allotment is $1,251.
- Hawaii: Maximum allotment for a family of four is slightly lower at $1,759, a decrease from previous amounts.
For individuals, the maximum monthly benefit in the 48 contiguous states is $291.
It’s important to note that while these maximum allotments have been adjusted for the fiscal year 2024, they won’t increase until October 1, 2024, when the new cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) take effect.
What to Do
If your SNAP benefits don’t arrive on the expected date, the first thing to do is check the payment schedule for your state or territory. Delays can happen, but they are uncommon. If your payment is late, wait a few days to ensure it’s not just a processing issue. After a reasonable period, typically three mailing days, contact your local SNAP office for assistance.
Addressing SNAP payments can be complex, but knowing the schedule and variations in benefit amounts can help you better manage your monthly budget. Whether you’re in the contiguous U.S., a U.S. territory, or a state with a high cost of living, knowing when and how much you’ll receive in SNAP benefits is crucial. Stay informed, and make sure to check your state’s payment schedule regularly to avoid any surprises.
FAQs
When will I get my SNAP benefits in September?
It depends on your state; check the specific dates listed.
How much will I get in SNAP benefits?
Amounts vary by state; maximums range from $973 to $1,937.
Will the SNAP benefit amount increase in September?
No, the new COLA increases won’t take effect until October 1, 2024.
What should I do if my SNAP benefits are late?
Wait three days, then contact your local SNAP office.
Why do some states have higher SNAP payments?
Higher payments account for the cost of living differences across states.
