The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed the distribution of the next round of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) payments. All 50 states, along with Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia, will be sending benefits throughout September. However, the exact dates when benefits are distributed vary by state and territory.
Higher SNAP benefits are available in some regions. For example, Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands offer higher maximum SNAP allotments compared to the 48 contiguous states. It’s important to check your state’s payment schedule to see when your EBT card will be reloaded.
Benefits
Some states distribute their entire SNAP payments on a single day. If you live in one of these states, you can expect your EBT card to be reloaded on September 1:
- Alaska
- North Dakota
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
Shorter Distribution Windows
In some states, SNAP payments are sent over a period of a few days rather than all at once. Here’s a look at the states and their payment windows:
- Connecticut: September 1-3
- Wyoming: September 1-4
- Nebraska: September 1-5
- New Jersey: September 1-5
- New York: September 1-9
- Oregon: September 1-9
- West Virginia: September 1-9
- California: September 1-10
- Colorado: September 1-10
- Idaho: September 1-10
- Illinois: September 1-10
- Iowa: September 1-10
- Kansas: September 1-10
- Nevada: September 1-10
- Oklahoma: September 1-10
- South Carolina: September 1-10
- Arizona: September 1-13
- Arkansas: September 1-13
- Minnesota: September 1-13
- Maine: September 1-14
- Massachusetts: September 1-14
- Wisconsin: September 1-15
- Kentucky: September 1-19
- New Mexico: September 1-20
- Tennessee: September 1-20
- Washington: September 1-20
- Missouri: September 1-22
- Alabama: September 1-23
- Delaware: September 1-23
- Georgia: September 1-23
- Indiana: September 1-23
- Louisiana: September 1-23
- Maryland: September 1-23
- Florida: September 1-28
- Texas: September 1-28
Longer Delivery Windows
A few states take longer to fully distribute their SNAP benefits. The delivery period might span over several weeks, allowing more time for all eligible recipients to receive their benefits. For example:
- Montana: September 2-6
- Ohio: September 2-20
- Hawaii: September 3-5
- Michigan: September 3-21
- North Carolina: September 3-21
- Arkansas: September 4-13
- Minnesota: September 4-13
- Mississippi: September 4-21
- New Hampshire: September 5
- Utah: September 5, 11, 15
- South Dakota: September 10
- Pennsylvania: First 10 business days of September
Payment Schedules
If you live in one of the U.S. territories, here are the SNAP payment windows for September:
- Guam: September 1-10
- Puerto Rico: September 4-22
- District of Columbia: September 1-10
- U.S. Virgin Islands: September 1
Maximum Allotments
The maximum SNAP benefit amounts vary depending on where you live. As of FY 2024, here are the maximum monthly allotments for a family of four:
- 48 contiguous states and D.C.: $973
- Alaska: $1,248 to $1,937
- Guam: $1,434
- U.S. Virgin Islands: $1,251
- Hawaii: $1,759 (a decrease from previous years)
The minimum benefit remains at $23 for the 48 contiguous states and D.C. However, the maximum allotments for the 48 states will increase with cost-of-living adjustments starting on October 1, 2024.
| Region | Family of Four Max Allotment |
|---|---|
| 48 Contiguous States | $973 |
| Alaska | $1,248 to $1,937 |
| Guam | $1,434 |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | $1,251 |
| Hawaii | $1,759 |
Application
If you’re waiting on your SNAP benefits, you may want to track the status of your application. Here’s how you can do it:
- Online: Many states offer online portals to track your application, such as My ACCESS in Florida, My Account Page in Massachusetts, and myBenefits in New York.
- By Phone: You can call your local SNAP office or the caseworker assigned to your case to check the status.
- In Person: Visiting your local public assistance or social services office is another way to get an update on your application.
Staying informed on your SNAP application status is crucial to ensure you get the benefits you’re entitled to as soon as possible.
The USDA’s updated payment schedule and maximum allotments reflect the importance of helping households in need. If you qualify for SNAP, make sure to apply and stay on top of your benefits to ease your financial burdens.
FAQs
When will California distribute September SNAP benefits?
California will send SNAP payments between September 1-10.
What is the maximum SNAP allotment for a family of four in Alaska?
In Alaska, the maximum ranges from $1,248 to $1,937.
Can I track my SNAP application online?
Yes, many states offer online portals like My ACCESS in Florida or myBenefits in New York.
Will SNAP payments increase in 2024?
Yes, starting October 1, 2024, maximum allotments will increase for most states.
How much SNAP can I get as an individual in the 48 states?
An individual can receive up to $291 in maximum benefits.
