As December approaches, recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often referred to as Food Stamps, can begin planning their grocery budgets based on their state’s payment schedule.
Administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), SNAP provides critical support to millions of Americans. Payments for November are nearly complete, and it’s time to focus on December disbursements.
Payment Schedules
SNAP payment dates vary widely by state, ranging from a single payday to spread-out distributions over several weeks. Most states start issuing benefits early in December, though there are exceptions.
Late December Payouts
- Maine: December 10–14
- South Dakota: December 10
In all other states, payments begin earlier. Below is a full breakdown of SNAP payment schedules for December 2024:
| State/Territory | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | December 4–23 |
| Alaska | December 1 |
| Arizona | December 1–13 |
| Arkansas | December 4–13 |
| California | December 1–10 |
| Colorado | December 1–10 |
| Connecticut | December 1–3 |
| Delaware | December 2–23 |
| Florida | December 1–28 |
| Georgia | December 5–23 |
| Hawaii | December 3–5 |
| Idaho | December 1–10 |
| Illinois | December 1–10 |
| Indiana | December 5–23 |
| Iowa | December 1–10 |
| Kansas | December 1–10 |
| Kentucky | December 1–19 |
| Louisiana | December 1–23 |
| Maryland | December 4–23 |
| Massachusetts | December 1–14 |
| Michigan | December 3–21 |
| Minnesota | December 4–13 |
| Mississippi | December 4–21 |
| Missouri | December 1–22 |
| Montana | December 2–6 |
| Nebraska | December 1–5 |
| Nevada | December 1–10 |
| New Hampshire | December 5 |
| New Jersey | December 1–5 |
| New Mexico | December 1–20 |
| New York | December 1–9 |
| North Carolina | December 3–21 |
| North Dakota | December 1 |
| Ohio | December 2–20 |
| Oklahoma | December 1–10 |
| Oregon | December 1–9 |
| Pennsylvania | First 10 business days |
| Rhode Island | December 1 |
| South Carolina | December 1–10 |
| Tennessee | December 1–20 |
| Texas | December 1–28 |
| Utah | December 5, 11, and 15 |
| Vermont | December 1 |
| Virginia | December 1–7 |
| Washington | December 1–20 |
| West Virginia | December 1–9 |
| Wisconsin | December 1–15 |
| Wyoming | December 1–4 |
| Guam | December 1–10 |
| Puerto Rico | December 4–22 |
| The District of Columbia | December 1–10 |
| The U.S. Virgin Islands | December 1 |
Benefit Amounts
The maximum monthly SNAP benefits for December 2024 remain unchanged, as they are set through September 30, 2025. These amounts depend on household size and location.
Standard Maximums
- 1-person household: $292
- 8-person household: $1,756
Higher Benefits
- Alaska (Rural 2):
- Individual: $586
- 8-member family: $3,516
- Hawaii, Guam, and U.S. Virgin Islands: Benefits are higher due to elevated living costs.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re receiving SNAP benefits for a small or large household, knowing the payment schedule helps in planning your grocery budget effectively. Remember, benefit amounts will stay constant until September 2025, ensuring consistent support. Make a note of your state’s SNAP payday and prepare for the holidays with confidence.
FAQs
When will SNAP payments start in December?
Most states begin issuing payments on December 1, 2024.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for one person?
The maximum is $292 for the 48 contiguous states.
Why are benefits higher in Alaska?
Higher costs of living result in larger benefit amounts.
How often are SNAP benefits adjusted?
They are reviewed annually and adjusted if needed.
What day does South Dakota issue SNAP?
South Dakota will issue SNAP benefits on December 10.
