As we move into a new month, millions of Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, are preparing to receive their monthly benefits. This crucial program supports low-income households across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and U.S. territories by providing financial assistance to purchase food. These benefits are delivered via Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used at authorized retailers nationwide.
SNAP is a federally funded program, but it’s administered by state and local governments, leading to variations in how and when benefits are distributed. Rather than having a single national payment schedule, each state or territory sets its own distribution timeline, often based on factors like case numbers or the first letter of a recipient’s last name.
State Schedules
The timing of SNAP benefit distribution can vary widely depending on where you live. For instance, in California, benefits are distributed based on the recipient’s case number, with those whose case numbers end in lower digits receiving their benefits earlier in the month. In Delaware, the schedule is based on the first letter of the beneficiary’s last name. Meanwhile, Rhode Island follows a much simpler system, with all SNAP recipients receiving their benefits on the same day.
Here’s a look at how SNAP benefits will be distributed in various states and territories in September 2024:
| State/Territory | Distribution Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | September 4 to 23 |
| Alaska | September 1 |
| Arizona | September 1 to 13 |
| Arkansas | September 4 to 13 |
| California | September 1 to 10 |
| Colorado | September 1 to 10 |
| Connecticut | September 1 to 3 |
| Delaware | September 2 to 23 |
| District of Columbia | September 1 to 10 |
| Florida | September 1 to 28 |
| Georgia | September 5 to 23 |
| Guam | September 1 to 10 |
| Hawaii | September 3 to 5 |
| Idaho | September 1 to 10 |
| Illinois | September 1 to 20 |
| Indiana | September 5 to 23 |
| Iowa | September 1 to 10 |
| Kansas | September 1 to 10 |
| Kentucky | September 1 to 19 |
| Louisiana | September 1 to 23 |
| Maine | September 10 to 14 |
| Maryland | September 4 to 23 |
| Massachusetts | September 1 to 14 |
| Michigan | September 3 to 21 |
| Minnesota | September 4 to 13 |
| Mississippi | September 4 to 21 |
| Missouri | September 1 to 22 |
| Montana | September 2 to 6 |
| Nebraska | September 1 to 5 |
| Nevada | September 1 to 10 |
| New Hampshire | September 5 |
| New Jersey | September 1 to 5 |
| New Mexico | September 1 to 20 |
| New York | September 1 to 9 |
| North Carolina | September 3 to 21 |
| North Dakota | September 1 |
| Ohio | September 2 to 20 |
| Oklahoma | September 1 to 10 |
| Oregon | September 1 to 9 |
| Pennsylvania | September 3 to 14 |
| Puerto Rico | September 4 to September 22 |
| Rhode Island | September 1 |
| South Carolina | September 1 to 19 |
| South Dakota | September 10 |
| Tennessee | September 1 to 20 |
| Texas | September 1 to 28 |
| Utah | September 5, 11, and 15 |
| Virgin Islands | September 1 |
| Vermont | September 1 |
| Virginia | September 1 to 7 |
| Washington | September 1 to 20 |
| West Virginia | September 1 to 9 |
| Wisconsin | September 1 to 15 |
| Wyoming | September 1 to 4 |
These varying schedules reflect the decentralized nature of SNAP’s administration, ensuring that benefits are tailored to meet the needs of each state’s population.
Upcoming Changes
In October, SNAP recipients across all U.S. states and territories, except Hawaii, can expect an increase in their benefits due to the annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). This adjustment aims to help recipients keep pace with inflation and the rising cost of living.
Additionally, Colorado SNAP recipients have a unique opportunity in September to receive an extra $60 in benefits. This bonus is available to those who purchase fruits and vegetables from participating retailers and markets, promoting healthier eating habits among beneficiaries.
For those relying on SNAP, staying informed about when benefits are distributed and any upcoming changes is crucial to managing their food budget effectively.
FAQs
How are SNAP benefits distributed?
SNAP benefits are distributed monthly through EBT cards, with schedules varying by state.
When will Colorado SNAP recipients get their extra $60 benefit?
In September, if they purchase fruits and vegetables from participating retailers.
Why are SNAP benefits increasing in October?
Due to the annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) to keep up with inflation.
Do all states distribute SNAP benefits on the same day?
No, each state has its own schedule based on factors like case numbers or last names.
Who manages the distribution of SNAP benefits?
State and local governments administer SNAP, even though it’s federally funded.
