In August, eligible individuals in 33 states, territories, and the District of Columbia will begin receiving their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits this week.
The benefits provided are of great significance to families with low or no income, as they assist in covering the cost of food for both individuals and entire households.
To be eligible for SNAP benefits, a household’s net monthly income must not exceed 100% of the government poverty level. These benefits are crucial for individuals and families who rely on them to cover their basic needs, including providing food for their children.
Typically, benefits are distributed over a span of 12 months, with a monthly payment made through electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards. These cards function like debit cards and can be used at various stores such as Walmart and Costco.
SNAP benefits are allocated to eligible individuals based on specific criteria, ensuring that they are provided to those who meet the necessary qualifications. The calculations depend on factors such as the size of the family, income levels, and ages of the individuals.
According to the Department of Human Services, a family of eight is eligible to receive a maximum of $1,751 in SNAP benefits. Additional compensation is provided for families with more than eight members, granting an additional $219 per person. Smaller families will receive a reduced amount, while adults will receive a smaller portion compared to children and the elderly.
Many states and areas distribute SNAP benefits starting on August 1, although there may be delays for some individuals who may receive their funds as late as August 28. The distribution of benefits varies by state in order to ensure that every family receives the support they need and can utilize the funds effectively based on their specific location.
Due to the different ways benefits are distributed, the methods will also vary from state to state. As an illustration, certain states have implemented a system where benefits are allocated based on the claimant’s assigned number or the first letter of their last name.
Schedule
SNAP payments will be distributed to the District of Columbia, all 50 states, and the territory of Guam in August at the designated times:
Alabama: Aug. 4 to 23
Alaska: Aug. 1
Arizona: Aug. 1 to 13
Arkansas: Aug. 4 to 13
California: Aug. 1 to 10
Colorado: Aug. 1 to 10
Connecticut: Aug. 1 to 3
Delaware: Aug. 2 to 23
District of Columbia: Aug. 1 to 10
Florida: August 1 to 28
Georgia: August 5 to 23
Hawaii: August 3 to 5
Guam: August 1 to 10
Idaho: August 1 to 10
Illinois: August 1 to 20
Indiana: August 5 to 23
Iowa: August 1 to 10
Kansas: August 1 to 10
Kentucky: August 1 to 19
Louisiana: August 1 to 23
Maine: August 10 to 14
Maryland: August 4 to 23
Massachusetts: August 1 to 14
Michigan: August. 3 to 21
Minnesota: August 4 to 13
Mississippi: August 4 to 21
Missouri: August 1 to 22
Montana: August 2 to 7
Nebraska: August 1 to 5
Nevada: August 1 to 10
New Hampshire: August 5
New Jersey: August 1 to 5
New Mexico: August 1 to 20
New York: August 1 to 9
North Carolina: August 3 to 21
North Dakota: August 1
Ohio: August 2 to 20
Oklahoma: August 1 to 10
Oregon: August 1 to 9
Pennsylvania: August 3 to 14
Puerto Rico: August 4 to 22
Rhode Island: August 1
South Carolina: August 1 to 19
South Dakota: August 10
Tennessee: August 1 to 20
Texas: August 1 to 28
Utah: August 5, 11, and 15
Vermont: August 1
Virginia: August 1 to 7
Washington: August 1 to 20
West Virginia: August 1 to 9
Wisconsin: August 1 to 15