The USDA has recently announced a significant Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for SNAP benefits, taking effect in October 2024.
While the adjustment primarily benefits residents of Alaska, where the maximum payment will be $586 per month, most other states will also see an increase in SNAP payments. However, Hawaii is an exception, as its SNAP benefits will see a decrease.
When Does the COLA Adjustment for SNAP Take Effect?
The COLA adjustment for SNAP benefits will be implemented in October 2024. This yearly update is designed to align with inflation and rising food costs, ensuring that SNAP benefits adequately cover the cost of essential groceries.
Although the increase may seem small, it is intended to provide additional support for families struggling with rising living expenses.
Key Details of the Upcoming SNAP Adjustment:
- Effective Date: October 2024
- Maximum Benefit in Alaska: $586 per month
- Maximum Benefit in Other States: $292 per family member
- Hawaii: Will experience a decrease in SNAP benefits
The SNAP adjustment will be applied before any changes to Social Security payments and similar benefits, giving families the financial boost they need sooner.
How Much Will SNAP Recipients Receive?
The COLA adjustment will vary by state and household size.
After the adjustment, each family member can receive a maximum of $292, with the highest payments being in Alaska, where benefits could reach $586 monthly.
Here’s a breakdown of how the adjustment will affect payments:
- Single Recipients: Up to $292 per month
- Family of Four: Up to $1,168 monthly in most states
- Large Households: Up to $1,751 in certain cases
Although this increase might not drastically change finances, every bit of aid can make a significant difference for families facing financial challenges.
August 2024 SNAP Payment Schedule
Before the October COLA adjustment kicks in, recipients will still receive regular SNAP benefits in August. Here’s a summary of payment dates for August 2024 across different states:
- Alabama: August 4-23
- Alaska: August 1
- Arizona: August 1-13
- Arkansas: August 4-13
- California: August 1-10
- Colorado: August 1-10
- Connecticut: August 1-3
- Delaware: August 2-23
- District of Columbia: August 1-10
- Florida: August 1-28
- Georgia: August 5-23
- Hawaii: August 3-5
- 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
- Nebraska: August 1-5
- Nevada: August 1-10
- New Hampshire: August 5
- New Jersey: August 1-5
- New Mexico: August 1-20
- New York: August 1-9
- North Carolina: August 3-21
- North Dakota: August 1
- Ohio: August 2-20
- Oklahoma: August 1-10
- Oregon: August 1-9
- Pennsylvania: August 3-14
- Puerto Rico: August 4-22
- Rhode Island: August 1
- South Carolina: August 1-10
- South Dakota: August 10
- Tennessee: August 1-20
- Texas: August 1-28
- Utah: August 5, 11, and 15
- Vermont: August 1
- Virginia: August 1-7
- Washington: August 1-20
- West Virginia: August 1-9
- Wisconsin: August 1-15
- Wyoming: August 1-4
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
To ensure you receive your payment, check your EBT card balance regularly. This will keep you informed about your benefits and help you plan your grocery shopping. Staying on top of your balance can also alert you to any delays or issues with your SNAP benefits.
FAQs
When will the SNAP COLA adjustment take effect?
The COLA adjustment will take effect in October 2024.
How much can SNAP recipients receive in Alaska after the adjustment?
The maximum benefit in Alaska will be $586 per month.
Will all states see an increase in SNAP benefits?
Most states will see an increase, but Hawaii will experience a decrease.
What is the average SNAP benefit per family member after the adjustment?
The maximum benefit will be $292 per family member.
How can I check my SNAP balance?
You can check your EBT card balance through your state’s online portal, mobile app, or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card.
