The USDA has officially announced a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025, which will increase Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in the 48 contiguous states, along with Alaska, Guam, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This adjustment, set to take effect on October 1, 2024, aims to help recipients keep pace with inflation and rising food costs. However, for those receiving benefits in Hawaii, SNAP benefits will unfortunately see a reduction.
COLA Increase
A COLA increase adjusts benefits like SNAP to match the rising cost of living, which is influenced by factors such as inflation and changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This ensures that recipients maintain their purchasing power over time. Although COLA adjustments typically result in a benefit increase, as seen in 2025 for most areas, Hawaii will experience a rare decrease.
States Benefits
Beginning October 1, 2024, the new COLA-adjusted SNAP benefits will roll out across multiple states. While most states will increase their benefits, the dates of distribution vary. Below is a list of states and the corresponding dates when recipients can expect their COLA-boosted benefits:
| State | Distribution Dates |
|---|---|
| Alaska | October 1 |
| Arizona | October 1 to 13 |
| California | October 1 to 10 |
| Colorado | October 1 to 10 |
| Connecticut | October 1 to 3 |
| Florida | October 1 to 28 |
| Idaho | October 1 to 10 |
| Illinois | October 1 to 10 |
| Iowa | October 1 to 10 |
| Kansas | October 1 to 10 |
| Kentucky | October 1 to 19 |
| Louisiana | October 1 to 23 |
| Massachusetts | October 1 to 14 |
| Missouri | October 1 to 22 |
| Nebraska | October 1 to 5 |
| Nevada | October 1 to 10 |
| New Jersey | October 1 to 5 |
| New Mexico | October 1 to 20 |
| New York | October 1 to 9 |
| North Dakota | October 1 |
| Oklahoma | October 1 to 10 |
| Oregon | October 1 to 9 |
| Pennsylvania | First 10 business days |
| Rhode Island | October 1 |
| South Carolina | October 1 to 10 |
| Tennessee | October 1 to 20 |
| Texas | October 1 to 28 |
| Vermont | October 1 |
| Virginia | October 1 to 7 |
| Washington | October 1 to 20 |
| West Virginia | October 1 to 9 |
| Wisconsin | October 1 to 15 |
| Wyoming | October 1 to 4 |
SNAP Maximum Amounts
The COLA increase for SNAP benefits will provide a vital boost to families in need, though the rise is expected to be modest. Still, any extra financial support can help families struggling to make ends meet. Here’s a breakdown of the new maximum SNAP amounts for various family sizes in the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia:
| Family Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit (2025) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each additional member | +$220 |
Hawaii Is Seeing a Decrease
Unlike the majority of states receiving a benefit increase, Hawaii is expected to experience a decrease in SNAP benefits. This reduction can be attributed to various economic factors, including changes in the state’s cost of living metrics and adjustments in the USDA’s evaluation process for Hawaii. Recipients in the state should be mindful of this shift and plan accordingly.
Importance
While the 2025 COLA boost may seem small, it is crucial for households that rely on SNAP benefits. These increases are particularly significant for families living on a shoestring budget, where even a few extra dollars each month can make a substantial difference in their ability to afford groceries. It’s important to remember that COLA adjustments aim to keep pace with inflation, ensuring that recipients’ purchasing power remains intact.
However, as seen with Hawaii’s reduction, COLA boosts are not guaranteed and can fluctuate based on economic factors, making it important for recipients to stay informed about changes in their benefits.
In summary, while most states will see a welcome increase in SNAP benefits, those in Hawaii should prepare for a reduction, highlighting the need for recipients everywhere to be aware of these adjustments.
FAQs
Will my SNAP benefits increase in 2025?
Yes, in most states, there will be a COLA boost starting October 1, 2024.
Why are Hawaii’s SNAP benefits decreasing?
Hawaii’s reduction is due to economic factors affecting the cost of living adjustments.
When will the 2025 COLA adjustment take effect?
The COLA boost will take effect on October 1, 2024.
What is the new maximum SNAP amount for a family of four?
A family of four can receive up to $975 per month in the contiguous states.
Are SNAP benefits adjusted for inflation every year?
Yes, SNAP benefits are adjusted annually based on the cost of living and inflation.
