As August wraps up, residents in 19 states and territories can expect to receive their SNAP benefits by this Sunday. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) stands as one of the most significant anti-hunger initiatives in the United States. SNAP benefits provide essential support to millions of Americans, including vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with disabilities. This program doesn’t just help to ensure that people have access to food; it also plays a critical role in reducing food insecurity across low-income households.
Applying for SNAP is relatively straightforward. You can apply online or visit your state’s SNAP office. However, be prepared for an interview and a thorough review of your income, debts, and eligibility.
EBT Cards
SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which functions like a debit card. You can use it at any grocery store or supermarket that accepts SNAP benefits. The amount you receive varies depending on the size of your household. For a family of eight, the maximum benefit can reach $1,751 per month. To be eligible, a household’s monthly income must not exceed 130% of the federal poverty line, which is about $2,072 per year for one person.
However, it’s important to note that each state manages and distributes SNAP benefits differently. Some states disburse payments based on a recipient’s assigned number, while others use the first letter of the recipient’s last name.
Who Receives Benefits?
In April alone, about 41 million Americans, representing 12.6% of the population, received SNAP benefits. However, this percentage can differ widely from state to state, ranging from as low as 4.6% to as high as 12.6%.
The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which spent over $80 billion on food and nutrition assistance in 2023. That year, SNAP accounted for 67.8% of the USDA’s total food and nutrition assistance budget. Low-income families who qualify for the program receive a monthly allowance based on the number of people in their household. Here’s a quick look at the approved monthly SNAP benefits:
| Household Size | Monthly SNAP Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 member | $291 |
| 2 members | $535 |
| 3 members | $766 |
| 4 members | $973 |
| 5 members | $1,155 |
| 6 members | $1,386 |
| 7 members | $1,532 |
| 8 members | $1,751 |
| Additional member | +$219 |
States Issuing Payments
The schedule for receiving SNAP benefits is crucial, as each state has its own timeline. Here are the states that will issue SNAP payments by the end of this week:
- Alabama: Aug. 4 to 23
- Delaware: Aug. 2 to 23
- Florida: Aug. 1 to 28
- Georgia: Aug. 5 to 23
- Illinois: Aug. 1 to 20
- Indiana: Aug. 5 to 23
- Kentucky: Aug. 1 to 19
- Louisiana: Aug. 1 to 23
- Maryland: Aug. 4 to 23
- Mississippi: Aug. 4 to 21
- Missouri: Aug. 1 to 22
- New Mexico: Aug. 1 to 20
- North Carolina: Aug. 3 to 21
- Ohio: Aug. 2 to 20
- Puerto Rico: Aug. 4 to 22
- South Carolina: Aug. 1 to 19
- Tennessee: Aug. 1 to 20
- Texas: Aug. 1 to 28
- Washington: Aug. 1 to 20
Online Purchases
If you prefer to shop online, you can use your SNAP benefits at a variety of stores. The USDA offers a page where you can check which stores in your state accept SNAP for online purchases. However, don’t assume that if one store accepts SNAP in a state, it will do so in all states. Here are some of the top stores where you can use SNAP benefits online:
| Store | Territories Available |
|---|---|
| Amazon | 51 |
| Walgreens | 51 |
| Target | 50 |
| Thrive Market | 50 |
| Walmart | 50 |
| Costco | 48 |
| Defense Commissary Agency | 46 |
| Whole Foods | 44 |
| Sam’s Club Scan and Go | 43 |
| ALDI | 38 |
As August comes to a close, it’s crucial for SNAP beneficiaries to stay informed about their payment schedules and the options available for using their benefits. The USDA remains a vital resource for any further information or assistance regarding the SNAP program.
FAQs
When will I receive my SNAP benefits this August?
Payments are issued throughout August, varying by state.
Can I use my EBT card online?
Yes, at selected stores, depending on your state.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for a household of eight?
The maximum is $1,751 per month.
Do all states follow the same SNAP payment schedule?
No, each state has its unique payment schedule.
How is SNAP eligibility determined?
Eligibility is based on household income, which must not exceed 130% of the federal poverty level.
