The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a vital federal program that provides food assistance to millions of Americans. Although SNAP is federally funded, states have the flexibility to administer the program, including determining paydays and processing applications.
This article provides an overview of how SNAP payments work, which states are sending payments this week, and the eligibility criteria and income limits for receiving SNAP benefits.
SNAP Payments
Throughout August 2024, SNAP benefits will be distributed across the United States, with specific paydays varying by state. Although the maximum benefit for a family of eight can be up to $1,751, individuals can receive up to $291. Despite being a federal program, states manage their own SNAP payment schedules, which means the exact day you receive your benefits depends on where you live.
States
This week, 37 states, along with Guam, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia, are distributing SNAP benefits to eligible recipients. Here’s a breakdown of the payment schedules for these states:
| State | Payment Dates (August 2024) |
|---|---|
| Alabama | August 4-23 |
| Arkansas | August 4-13 |
| California | August 1-10 |
| Colorado | August 1-10 |
| Delaware | August 2-23 |
| Florida | August 1-28 |
| Georgia | August 5-23 |
| Idaho | August 1-10 |
| Illinois | August 1-10 |
| Indiana | August 5-23 |
| Iowa | August 1-10 |
| Kansas | August 1-10 |
| Kentucky | August 1-19 |
| Louisiana | August 1-23 |
| Maine | August 10-14 |
| Maryland | August 4-23 |
| Massachusetts | August 1-14 |
| Michigan | August 3-21 |
| Minnesota | August 4-13 |
| Mississippi | August 4-21 |
| Missouri | August 1-22 |
| Montana | August 2-6 |
| Nevada | August 1-10 |
| New Mexico | August 1-20 |
| New York | August 1-9 |
| North Carolina | August 3-21 |
| Ohio | August 2-20 |
| Oklahoma | August 1-10 |
| Oregon | August 1-9 |
| Pennsylvania | Over the first 10 business days |
| South Carolina | August 1-10 |
| Tennessee | August 1-20 |
| Texas | August 1-28 |
| Virginia | August 1-7 |
| Washington | August 1-20 |
| West Virginia | August 1-9 |
| Wisconsin | August 1-15 |
| Guam | August 1-10 |
| Puerto Rico | August 4-22 |
| District of Columbia | August 1-10 |
Eligibility
To qualify for SNAP benefits, households must meet certain income and resource criteria. The eligibility requirements ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most, particularly low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.
Income Limits for SNAP
Income limits for SNAP are based on the federal poverty line and vary depending on household size. There are two primary income tests for SNAP eligibility:
- Gross Monthly Income: Before deductions, gross income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty line. For example, for a family of three, this is $2,694 per month for fiscal year 2024.
- Net Monthly Income: After deductions, net income must be at or below 100% of the poverty line. For a family of three, this is $2,072 per month for fiscal year 2024.
Households that include an elderly or disabled member only need to meet the net income test, not the gross income test.
Resource Limits for SNAP
Resource limits are another important factor in determining SNAP eligibility. These limits include cash, bank accounts, and other resources:
- Households without an Elderly or Disabled Member: Must have assets of $2,750 or less.
- Households with an Elderly or Disabled Member: Must have assets of $4,250 or less.
Certain assets, like a primary home, personal property, and most retirement plans, do not count towards the resource limit. Additionally, most vehicles are not considered assets, with states having the flexibility to apply less restrictive vehicle asset rules.
Maximum SNAP Benefits
For families of six, the maximum SNAP benefit can be up to $1,386 this week. However, the average payment for a family of six is $1,052, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. These payments are a crucial source of support, especially for larger families with limited income and resources.
SNAP benefits play a vital role in helping low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities afford food. While the program is federally funded, each state has its own payment schedule, meaning recipients may receive benefits on different days. Knowing the eligibility criteria and staying informed about your state’s specific payment dates can help you make the most of this essential assistance.
FAQs
When will SNAP benefits be sent in August 2024?
SNAP benefits will be sent throughout August, with dates varying by state.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for a family of six?
A family of six can receive up to $1,386 this week.
How are SNAP eligibility and benefit amounts determined?
Eligibility is based on income and resources, while benefit amounts depend on household size and income.
Do all states have the same SNAP payment schedule?
No, each state determines its own SNAP payment schedule.
What assets are excluded from SNAP resource limits?
Primary homes, personal property, most retirement plans, and most vehicles are excluded from the resource limit.
