Final SNAP Benefit Payments in September – Food Stamps Worth Up to $1,751

If you’re receiving SNAP benefits and your payment hasn’t arrived yet, don’t worry—there’s still time. Payments are scheduled to be sent through September 28, 2024, and different states follow varying payment schedules. Knowing when your benefits will arrive and how much you’ll receive is crucial for budgeting and managing your household’s food needs.

SNAP Payments

SNAP benefits, also known as food stamps, are distributed on different dates depending on your state. Some states have already finished their September payments, while others are still sending out benefits. For example, New Mexico, Ohio, Tennessee, and Washington will complete their payments by September 20, while states like Texas and Florida will continue distributing benefits until September 28.

Here’s a look at the remaining September payment schedules in key states:

• Alabama: September 4–23
• Delaware: September 2–23
• Florida: September 1–28
• Georgia: September 5–23
• Indiana: September 5–23
• Kentucky: September 1–19
• Louisiana: September 1–23
• Maryland: September 4–23
• Michigan: September 3–21
• Mississippi: September 4–21
• Missouri: September 1–22
• New Mexico: September 1–20
• North Carolina: September 3–21
• Ohio: September 2–20
• Tennessee: September 1–20
• Texas: September 1–28
• Washington: September 1–20

If you haven’t received your payment yet, be sure to check these dates based on your location.

Benefit Amounts

The amount you receive from SNAP depends on several factors, including your household size, income, and other qualifying criteria. The maximum SNAP benefits are uniform across the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia. Here’s what you can expect based on household size before the 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA):

• 1 person: Up to $291 per month
• 2 people: Up to $535 per month
• 3 people: Up to $766 per month
• 4 people: Up to $973 per month
• 5 people: Up to $1,155 per month
• 6 people: Up to $1,386 per month
• 7 people: Up to $1,532 per month
• 8 people: Up to $1,751 per month
• Each additional person: +$220 per month

This amount is loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used at eligible retailers, grocery stores, and even some farmers’ markets. Keep in mind that EBT cards are restricted to SNAP-eligible food items as outlined by the USDA, so you won’t be able to buy anything outside the approved list.

Future SNAP Benefit

SNAP benefit amounts will stay the same until September 30, 2024. However, on October 1, 2024, a cost-of-living adjustment will take effect, increasing the benefit amounts for the 2025 fiscal year. This annual adjustment helps account for inflation and rising food costs, ensuring that SNAP beneficiaries can continue to afford basic necessities.

Here’s what the new maximum benefit amounts will look like after the COLA increase on October 1, 2024:

• 1 person: $292
• 2 people: $536
• 3 people: $768
• 4 people: $975
• 5 people: $1,158
• 6 people: $1,390
• 7 people: $1,536
• 8 people: $1,756
• Each additional person: +$220

The increase may seem small at first glance, but every bit helps as food prices continue to rise. Even though the increase won’t happen until October, now is a good time to start planning your budget for the months ahead.

How to Use

Once your benefits are loaded onto your EBT card, you can use it at any participating grocery store or retailer that accepts EBT. Make sure to check with your local store to confirm if they accept SNAP payments. You can also use your card at some farmers’ markets, which are a great place to buy fresh, local produce.

Remember that SNAP benefits are intended to help you purchase essential food items. The USDA has restrictions on what you can buy with SNAP, so you won’t be able to purchase non-food items like cleaning supplies, alcohol, or pet food. Always check the USDA’s list of eligible items to avoid any surprises at the checkout.

Preparing for the Future

With the COLA increase coming in October 2024, it’s a good idea to start planning how to adjust your food budget. While the increase is small, it can make a noticeable difference over time. Consider tracking your expenses now to see how much you spend on food each month, and make adjustments to take advantage of the upcoming benefit increase.

Also, keep in mind that while the COLA helps, inflation may continue to affect the price of food and other necessities. Staying informed about your state’s payment schedule and the benefits you’re entitled to is key to making the most of SNAP.

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