Starting October 2024, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will change due to the 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). While most states and territories will see an increase, Hawaii is the notable exception where maximum Food Stamp amounts will decrease for the second consecutive year. Here’s what you need to know about these changes and how they might affect you.
SNAP Decrease
SNAP recipients in Hawaii will experience a reduction in benefits beginning October 1, 2024. Despite receiving a decrease last year, this year’s reduction further adjusts the maximum amounts that households in Hawaii can receive. The new maximum benefit amounts are:
| Household Size | Maximum Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $517 |
| 2 people | $948 |
| 3 people | $1,357 |
| 4 people | $1,723 |
| 5 people | $2,046 |
| 6 people | $2,456 |
| 7 people | $2,714 |
| 8 people | $3,102 |
| Each additional person | +$388 |
These amounts reflect a decrease in the maximum allowable benefits for Hawaiian households starting in October, despite the COLA intended to address inflation and cost-of-living changes.
SNAP Increase
While Hawaii will see a decrease, 49 other states and territories will receive a SNAP COLA boost effective October 2024. This increase aims to help offset inflation and rising food costs, ensuring that vulnerable families receive adequate support to purchase essential food items. Here is a list of states where recipients will experience an increase and their respective payment dates:
| State/Territory | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | October 4 to 23 |
| Alaska | October 1 |
| Arizona | October 1 to 13 |
| Arkansas | October 4 to 13 |
| California | October 1 to 10 |
| Colorado | October 1 to 10 |
| Connecticut | October 1 to 3 |
| Delaware | October 2 to 23 |
| Florida | October 1 to 28 |
| Georgia | October 5 to 23 |
| Idaho | October 1 to 10 |
| Illinois | October 1 to 10 |
| Indiana | October 5 to 23 |
| Iowa | October 1 to 10 |
| Kansas | October 1 to 10 |
| Kentucky | October 1 to 19 |
| Louisiana | October 1 to 23 |
| Maine | October 10 to 14 |
| Maryland | October 4 to 23 |
| Massachusetts | October 1 to 14 |
| Michigan | October 3 to 21 |
| Minnesota | October 4 to 13 |
| Mississippi | October 4 to 21 |
| Missouri | October 1 to 22 |
| Montana | October 2 to 6 |
| Nebraska | October 1 to 5 |
| Nevada | October 1 to 10 |
| New Hampshire | October 5 |
| New Jersey | October 1 to 5 |
| New Mexico | October 1 to 20 |
| New York | October 1 to 9 |
| North Carolina | October 3 to 21 |
| North Dakota | October 1 |
| Ohio | October 2 to 20 |
| Oklahoma | October 1 to 10 |
| Oregon | October 1 to 9 |
| Pennsylvania | Over the first 10 business days |
| Rhode Island | October 1 |
| South Carolina | October 1 to 10 |
| South Dakota | October 10 |
| Tennessee | October 1 to 20 |
| Texas | October 1 to 28 |
| Utah | October 5, 11, and 15 |
| Vermont | October 1 |
| Virginia | October 1 to 7 |
| Washington | October 1 to 20 |
| West Virginia | October 1 to 9 |
| Wisconsin | October 1 to 15 |
| Wyoming | October 1 to 4 |
| Guam | October 1 to 10 |
| Puerto Rico | October 4 to 22 |
| District of Columbia | October 1 to 10 |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | October 1 |
SNAP Benefits
Most states will see a boost in SNAP benefits, reflecting the USDA’s ongoing efforts to support low-income families amidst rising costs of living. Alaska, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, like in previous years, will continue to receive the COLA boost due to their unique cost-of-living adjustments.
Changes
If you are a SNAP recipient in Hawaii, you should plan for a reduction in your maximum allowable benefits starting October 2024. Here are a few steps to help you navigate these changes:
- Check Your New Benefit Amount: Review the updated maximum benefit amounts to know how much you will receive starting in October.
- Adjust Your Budget: Make necessary adjustments to your household budget to accommodate any changes in benefits.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on any further updates from the USDA or your local state agency to ensure you are aware of any changes or additional support programs.
For recipients in other states, the upcoming COLA boost will likely provide some relief from inflationary pressures. Make sure to check your payment schedule to know exactly when your funds will be loaded onto your SNAP card.
By staying informed and proactive, you can better manage the changes to your SNAP benefits and ensure that you continue to have access to essential food items for you and your family.
FAQs
Will SNAP benefits decrease in all states?
No, only Hawaii will see a decrease starting in October 2024.
Why are SNAP benefits decreasing in Hawaii?
The USDA has adjusted the maximum benefit amounts for Hawaii due to cost-of-living differences.
Which states will receive a SNAP increase in October 2024?
A total of 49 states and several U.S. territories will receive a COLA boost.
When will the new SNAP benefits take effect?
The new benefit amounts will begin on October 1, 2024.
How can I find my SNAP payment date?
Check your state’s SNAP payment schedule based on your eligibility and specific criteria.
