If you’re relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help put food on the table, staying informed about changes in benefits is crucial. Every year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) updates SNAP allocations, which can impact how much assistance families receive.
For fiscal year 2025, significant adjustments have been made, especially regarding monthly allowances and income limits. Let’s break down what these changes mean for you.
What Changed in 2025?
Starting October 1, 2024, SNAP benefits were adjusted to reflect the rising cost of living. This means many families will receive higher monthly allowances. These changes apply nationwide, including Alaska, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Here’s a look at the maximum monthly SNAP benefits based on household size:
| Household Size | 48 States & DC | Hawaii | Alaska (Urban) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $291 | $286 | $324 |
| 4 People | $973 | $955 | $1,085 |
| 8 People | $1,756 | $1,723 | $1,953 |
| Each Additional Person | +$220 | +$216 | +$245 |
This means that a family of 10 in the 48 states and Washington DC would receive $2,196 per month in SNAP benefits.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible for SNAP, your household’s gross monthly income must fall within certain limits, which are based on a percentage of the federal poverty level (FPL).
Here are the 2025 income limits:
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $1,580 |
| 4 People | $3,250 |
| 6 People | $4,340 |
| 8 People | $5,420 |
| Each Additional Person | +$540 |
If your income is above these limits, you likely won’t qualify for SNAP. However, certain deductions (such as housing costs and child care expenses) may help some households become eligible.
How SNAP Works
Once approved for SNAP, recipients are given an EBT card (Electronic Benefits Transfer), which functions like a debit card and can be used at authorized grocery stores to purchase food.
Buy With SNAP
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Bread and cereals
- Seeds and plants to grow food
What You CAN’T Buy
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Hot/prepared foods
- Non-food household items (soap, diapers, pet food)
Final Thoughts
With higher monthly benefits and adjusted income limits, SNAP remains a lifeline for families facing financial hardship. If you already receive SNAP, be sure to check your updated benefit amount for 2025. And if you’re unsure whether you qualify, reviewing the income thresholds can help determine eligibility.
Staying informed ensures that you can maximize your benefits and keep your family well-fed in the coming year.
FAQs
How much will a family of four receive in SNAP benefits?
A family of four in most states will receive up to $973 per month.
What is the maximum income to qualify for SNAP?
For a household of four, the income limit is $3,250 per month.
Can I use SNAP to buy hot food?
No, SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase hot or prepared foods.
Does SNAP work in all states?
Yes, SNAP is available in all 50 states, DC, and U.S. territories.
When did the 2025 SNAP benefit changes take effect?
The new SNAP benefit rates took effect on October 1, 2024.
