Families relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can receive food stamp benefits through December 28, with three-member households potentially qualifying for up to $768 in benefits. This amount represents the full benefit for families without reductions from their local SNAP office.
SNAP Payment Amounts Based on Household Size
The amount SNAP recipients receive depends on household size. For December, eligible families can expect the following maximum benefits in the 48 contiguous states:
- Single individuals: Up to $292
- Two-member households: Up to $535
- Three-member households: Up to $768
- Four-member households: Up to $975 (an increase from $973)
- Eight-member households: Up to $1,756
For households with more than eight members, an additional $219 is provided for each extra member.
In Hawaii and Guam, benefit amounts are higher due to increased living costs and inflation in those regions.
December SNAP Payment Dates by State
If you are a three-member household and have not received your SNAP benefits, your state may still have payments scheduled. Below is the timeline for when states are distributing benefits this month:
- Alabama: Dec 4–23
- Arizona: Dec 1–13
- Arkansas: Dec 4–13
- California: Dec 1–10
- Florida: Dec 1–28
- Texas: Dec 1–28
- New York: Dec 1–9
- North Carolina: Dec 3–21
- Virginia: Dec 1–7
- Washington, D.C.: Dec 1–10
- Guam: Dec 1–10
- Puerto Rico: Dec 4–22
Several other states have dates spanning early to mid-December. Check with your local SNAP office for specific information.
Eligibility for SNAP Benefits in December
To qualify for SNAP benefits, households must meet various criteria. These include:
- Income limits: Both gross and net monthly income are considered.
- Resource limits: Up to $2,750 in countable resources ($4,250 for households with seniors or people with disabilities).
- Work requirements: General and specific (e.g., able-bodied adults without dependents must meet time limits).
- Citizenship: U.S. citizens or certain qualified non-citizens may apply.
Caseworker Determination: Final eligibility is determined by a caseworker, so applying is the best way to know if you qualify. Some states, like Oregon, offer SNAP estimators online to help assess eligibility.
How SNAP Benefits Work
Once approved, recipients receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card loaded with funds. These can be used at authorized grocery stores and farmer’s markets to purchase eligible food items, helping families manage food costs and reduce financial stress.
For families facing food insecurity, applying for SNAP benefits is a step toward relief. Visit your state’s SNAP office or use an online estimator tool, such as Oregon’s SNAP Estimator, to understand your potential benefits.