SNAP checks will soon be sent to millions of recipients in the United States. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, previously Food Stamps, gives money to needy families.
The Government, through USDA and the Food and Nutrition Service, announced the new dates for SNAP payments. Food Stamps do not arrive on the same day in every State.
This is because each State is in charge of sending SNAP benefits and administering them. While some States send Food Stamps for several days or even weeks, others have a single payday. So, let’s focus on those who start sending checks on the very first day and it is their only payday.
WHICH STATES WILL START SENDING FOOD STAMPS IN FEBRUARY?
Vermont, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Rhode Island, North Dakota, and Alaska will only send SNAP benefits on February 1. Therefore, all beneficiaries will receive their money for food in these States and U.S. territories.
By now you must be wondering if the maximum amounts are the same everywhere. As a matter of fact, they are not the same. Actually, some States will send a lot more.
For example, if you live in Alaska or Hawaii, your SNAP payment will be higher than in most States. The 48 contiguous States and the District of Columbia have the same maximum amounts though.
The U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam also send higher payments. The reason why some places send more money for Food Stamps is simple. It has to do with inflation. The higher the inflation is, the higher the payment will be in this area. Other States will send payments on February 1, but they will have more paydays.
SNAP ELIGIBILITY AND AMOUNTS
Only families and individuals with a low income can receive Food Stamps in the United States. If your earnings and savings exceed the threshold, you will not get SNAP benefits.
What is more, you will have to meet general and specific work requirements. For example, if you are an Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents, you can only get Food Stamps for three months in 3 years unless you work for 80 hours per month.
The SNAP maximum amounts range from $291 (single) up to $1,751 (8 people). Bear in mind that average payments are not that high. A single person may receive about $202 says the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.
Alaska’s maximum amounts are the highest for Food Stamp beneficiaries in the USA. Depending on the area you live, benefits can be more or less money as well. They are between $374 (Urban area & 1 person) up to $3,487 (Rural 2 & 8 members).
