The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as Food Stamps, is a federal initiative designed to help low-income households purchase food. While the program is federally funded, the administration, application processes, and distribution of benefits are managed by individual states. This means that the timing of benefit disbursements can vary significantly depending on where you live.
SNAP benefits are typically delivered via Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which work like debit cards and can be used to purchase groceries both in-store and online. If you’re a SNAP recipient, it’s important to know when your state will load benefits onto your EBT card to plan your grocery shopping effectively.
Disbursement Schedule
In August 2024, a total of 17 states, along with Puerto Rico, have remaining SNAP disbursement dates. For instance, Alaska already distributed all its SNAP benefits on August 1, 2024, meaning recipients there won’t see another payment until September 1, 2024. However, other states are still processing and distributing payments throughout the month.
Here’s a look at which states are still sending SNAP benefits through the end of August:
Alabama: August 4 through 23
Delaware: August 2 through 23
Florida: August 1 through 28
Georgia: August 5 through 23
Indiana: August 5 through 23
Kentucky: August 1 through 19
Louisiana: August 1 through 23
Maryland: August 4 through 23
Michigan: August 3 through 21
Mississippi: August 4 through 21
Missouri: August 1 through 22
New Mexico: August 1 through 20
North Carolina: August 3 through 21
Ohio: August 2 through 20
Tennessee: August 1 through 20
Texas: August 1 through 28
Washington: August 1 through 20
Puerto Rico: August 4 through 22
These dates highlight when the states will deposit benefits onto EBT cards, allowing recipients to use their funds.
Average SNAP Payments
SNAP benefits are calculated based on household size, income, and other factors, leading to significant variation in payment amounts. In August 2024, the maximum benefit for a household of eight could reach up to $1,751. However, most recipients receive less than the maximum amount.
For example, while a single individual could receive up to $291, the average payment for one person is around $202. Similarly, a family of four might qualify for up to $973, but the average amount they actually receive is approximately $713. These averages are important to keep in mind, as they reflect the typical benefit amounts most households will receive rather than the potential maximum.
Future Increases
Looking ahead, SNAP recipients can expect a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) increase starting on October 1, 2024. This adjustment will impact benefits beginning in fiscal year 2025 and aims to help families keep up with inflation and rising costs.
SNAP continues to be a vital resource for many American households, offering financial support to ensure access to necessary food. Knowing the disbursement schedule and average payment amounts can help recipients make informed decisions about their spending and planning.
FAQs
Which states are distributing SNAP benefits in late August?
17 states, including Texas and Florida, are distributing benefits until August 28.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for a family of eight?
A family of eight could receive up to $1,751 in SNAP benefits.
How much does a single individual typically receive in SNAP benefits?
The average payment for a single individual is about $202.
When will the COLA increase for SNAP take effect?
The COLA increase will begin on October 1, 2024.
Does every state administer SNAP benefits on the same schedule?
No, each state has its own disbursement schedule for SNAP benefits.
