If you’re a recipient of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, understanding the payment schedule can be crucial, especially if you reside in states like Florida or Texas. While some states, including Alaska, Vermont, Rhode Island, and North Dakota, start distributing SNAP benefits at the beginning of the month, others have varied schedules that can stretch towards the end of the month. For instance, in Florida and Texas, some recipients may not receive their August payments until as late as August 28, 2024.
Schedule
In Florida, the SNAP benefit distribution is determined by the 8th and 9th digits of your case number, which are read backward, excluding the 10th digit. This unique method allows the state to stagger payments throughout the month, ensuring that recipients don’t all receive their benefits on the same day.
Here’s how the August distribution works:
- August 22: Case numbers ending in 75-78
- August 23: Case numbers ending in 79-81
- August 24: Case numbers ending in 82-85
- August 25: Case numbers ending in 86-88
- August 26: Case numbers ending in 89-92
- August 27: Case numbers ending in 93-95
- August 28: Case numbers ending in 96-99
This means that if your case number ends with 96-99, you’ll receive your benefits on August 28, 2024. If your case number falls earlier in the sequence, expect your benefits earlier in the month.
Texas SNAP Distribution
Texas follows a similar staggered distribution approach, but instead of case numbers, it uses the Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number. The last two digits of your EDG number determine when your benefits will be available.
Here’s the distribution schedule for August:
- August 22: EDG numbers ending in 21-24
- August 23: EDG numbers ending in 25-27, 79-81
- August 24: EDG numbers ending in 28-31, 82-85
- August 25: EDG numbers ending in 32-34, 86-88
- August 26: EDG numbers ending in 35-38, 89-92
- August 27: EDG numbers ending in 39-41, 46-49, 93-95
- August 28: EDG numbers ending in 42-45, 50-53, 96-99
If your EDG number ends in 96-99, you can expect your SNAP benefits to be available on August 28, 2024, similar to the process in Florida.
SNAP Allotments
The amount of SNAP benefits you receive is tied to the USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan (TFP), which determines the maximum monthly allotment for households based on size and income.
For the fiscal year 2024, the maximum SNAP allotments for the 48 contiguous states and D.C. are as follows:
Household Size | Maximum Monthly Allotment |
---|---|
1 person | $291 |
2 people | $535 |
3 people | $766 |
4 people | $973 |
5 people | $1,155 |
6 people | $1,386 |
7 people | $1,532 |
8 people | $1,751 |
Each additional person | +$219 |
These figures represent the maximum benefit for households with no net income. For households with net income, the benefit amount is reduced by 30% of their net income. The estimated average SNAP benefit per person for the fiscal year 2024 is $189 per month, or about $6.20 per day.
It’s also important to note that the maximum allotments differ in Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, where the cost of living is higher.
Knowing your SNAP benefit schedule and allotment is key to managing your monthly budget effectively. If you live in a state with a staggered distribution like Florida or Texas, marking your calendar with your specific payment date can help you plan your grocery shopping and other essential purchases.
FAQs
When will I receive my August SNAP benefits in Florida?
You’ll receive your benefits based on the 8th and 9th digits of your case number, between August 22-28.
How are SNAP benefits distributed in Texas?
Texas distributes benefits based on the last two digits of your EDG number, with payments from August 22-28.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for one person in 2024?
The maximum benefit for one person in 2024 is $291 per month.
How much is the average SNAP benefit per person?
The average benefit per person in 2024 is $189 per month.
Do SNAP allotments differ in Alaska?
Yes, Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and U.S. Virgin Islands have higher SNAP allotments due to higher living costs.