If you’re a recipient of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), you might be wondering whether your benefits are arriving this week. Some states have already started delivering payments from the USDA, while others are set to continue throughout the rest of September. Let’s take a closer look at the payment schedules, eligibility criteria, and what you can expect.
Payments
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that many states are currently sending out SNAP benefits. However, payment dates vary depending on the state and how they organize disbursements. The way your SNAP benefits are delivered could depend on the last digit of your Social Security Number (SSN), your last name, or your case number.
For example:
- Alabama uses the last digit of the case number, with payments arriving on different dates between September 4-23.
- Delaware follows a different system, issuing payments based on the first letter of the recipient’s last name.
SNAP Benefits
Here’s a list of states distributing SNAP payments starting this week:
- Alabama: September 4-23 (Payments on September 16 for case numbers ending in 60-64)
- Delaware: September 2-23 (Payments on September 16 for last names starting with O)
- Florida: September 1-28
- Georgia: September 5-23
- Indiana: September 5-23
- Kentucky: September 1-19
- Louisiana: September 1-23
- Maryland: September 4-23 (Payments on September 16 for last names with first three letters MCP to NEF)
- Michigan: September 3-21
- Mississippi: September 4-21
- Missouri: September 1-22
- New Mexico: September 1-20
- North Carolina: September 3-21
- Ohio: September 2-20
- Tennessee: September 1-20
- Texas: September 1-28
- Washington: September 1-20
Additionally, Puerto Rico is sending out SNAP benefits until September 22.
States like Texas and Florida have a longer delivery window, with some recipients potentially waiting until September 28 to receive their benefits. For a detailed schedule of your state’s disbursements, check the USDA’s official website here.
SNAP Paydays
Each state has its unique system for distributing SNAP payments. Here’s how a few states arrange their paydays from September 16 onward:
- Alabama: If your case number ends in 60-64, you’ll receive your benefits on September 16, while those with case numbers ending in 95-99 will be paid on September 23.
- Delaware: If your last name starts with the letter O, you can expect your benefits on September 16. If your last name starts with X, Y, or Z, you’ll receive your payment on September 23.
- Maryland: SNAP recipients whose last name’s first three letters fall between MCP and NEF will receive their benefits on September 16.
For states like Florida and Texas, the disbursements are spread out throughout the month, so it’s important to know your specific schedule.
Amount
The maximum SNAP benefit depends on your household size. For an individual, the maximum benefit is $291 per month. A family of four could receive up to $973, while a household of eight members could get as much as $1,751.
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $291 |
| 4 | $973 |
| 8 | $1,751 |
These maximum amounts apply to the 48 contiguous states. If your household size is larger than eight, you can add $219 per additional person to calculate your benefit.
Eligibility Requirements
To receive SNAP benefits, you must meet specific criteria set by your state. The main eligibility requirements include:
1. Income Limits
- Your gross income (total income before deductions) and net income (after allowable deductions) must be below certain limits based on your household size. Each state sets its own income limits, which are updated annually.
2. Resource Limits
- Most households can have up to $2,750 in countable resources, such as bank accounts. However, if at least one household member is 60 or older or disabled, the limit increases to $4,250. Many states have eliminated the resource test altogether.
3. Work Requirements
- Able-bodied adults without dependents must either work or participate in a work program for at least 20 hours per week to receive SNAP benefits for more than 3 months in a 36-month period.
4. Citizenship and Residency
- SNAP is available to U.S. citizens and some lawful non-citizens. Non-citizens must have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years, receive disability assistance, or be under 18 years of age.
5. College Students
- If you’re a college student enrolled at least half-time, you’ll need to meet additional criteria to qualify. You must either work an average of 20 hours per week, participate in work-study, care for a child, or receive other qualifying benefits.
Haven’t Received Your Benefits
If your SNAP benefits haven’t arrived yet but you believe you are eligible, you can check your payment status by contacting your state’s SNAP office. You can also access your payment schedule through your EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card account online.
Delays in payments can happen due to issues with processing, changes in eligibility, or incomplete documentation. If you believe there’s an issue, it’s best to contact your local SNAP office for assistance.
While each state has a different method for issuing benefits, knowing your state’s schedule and checking your account can help ensure you receive your benefits when they’re due.
FAQs
How much can I receive in SNAP benefits this month?
The maximum benefit depends on household size—individuals can receive up to $291, while a family of eight can get up to $1,751.
When will I get my SNAP benefits in September 2024?
Each state has its schedule; check with your state’s SNAP office for specific dates.
How are SNAP benefits arranged in Alabama?
Alabama distributes SNAP benefits based on the last digit of your case number.
Can I receive SNAP benefits as a college student?
Yes, but you must meet additional criteria such as working 20 hours per week or participating in work-study.
What should I do if I didn’t receive my SNAP benefits?
Contact your state’s SNAP office or check your EBT account for more details on your payment status.
