Starting January 1, 2025, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits are set to increase across every state and territory in the United States. These changes, introduced by the USDA, are aimed at helping families keep up with the rising cost of living and ensuring access to essential food resources.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the upcoming changes to SNAP benefits, including the new allotment amounts, eligibility requirements, and key details about how they vary by location and household size.
Why Are SNAP Benefits Increasing?
Each year, the USDA makes adjustments to SNAP benefits based on cost-of-living changes (known as COLA or Cost of Living Adjustment). This ensures that the benefits provided align with current economic conditions and the basic cost of maintaining a healthy diet.
For FY 2025 (October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025), the adjustments include increases in maximum benefits, housing allowances, and monthly income eligibility limits.
Maximum SNAP Benefits for FY 2025
For households in the 48 contiguous states and Washington D.C., the maximum SNAP benefits are as follows:
- 1 person: $292 per month
- 2 people: $536 per month
- 3 people: $768 per month
- 4 people: $975 per month
- 5 people: $1,158 per month
- 6 people: $1,390 per month
- 7 people: $1,536 per month
- 8 people: $1,756 per month
- Each additional person: $220 per month
Variations by Location
The benefit amounts differ in states and territories outside the contiguous U.S.:
- Hawaii: $1,723 for a family of four
- Guam: $1,437 for a family of four
- U.S. Virgin Islands: $1,254 for a family of four
- Alaska: Maximum benefits range between $1,258 and $1,953 for a family of four, depending on the region.
The minimum benefit amount remains $23 in the lower 48 states and D.C., with higher minimums in Alaska ($30–$47) and Hawaii ($41).
Income Eligibility Standards
Eligibility for SNAP benefits depends on household income, calculated as gross income minus specific deductions. For FY 2025, the monthly gross income limits (130% of the federal poverty level) for households are:
- 1 person: $1,580
- 2 people: $2,137
- 3 people: $2,694
- 4 people: $3,250
- 5 people: $3,807
- 6 people: $4,364
- 7 people: $4,921
- 8 people: $5,478
- Each additional person: Add $557
How to Prepare for the SNAP Changes
If you are currently receiving SNAP benefits or planning to apply, take note of these updates:
- Check Your Eligibility: Verify if your household qualifies under the new income limits.
- Budget Accordingly: Adjust your personal budget to incorporate the increased benefit amounts.
- Contact Your Local Office: For specific questions about benefits in your area, reach out to your local SNAP office or visit the official USDA website.
These changes are intended to provide more robust support to families and individuals, ensuring access to essential food and nutrition resources amidst rising living costs.
