As October approaches, millions of American families are getting ready to receive their SNAP payments, also known as “Food Stamps.” This month holds special significance because the payments will include the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025. This adjustment is designed to help recipients cope with inflation and rising food prices.
The maximum SNAP benefit a household can receive in October 2024 depends on both the household size and income. While every state follows guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the exact amount can vary based on state-specific factors such as the cost of living. For most U.S. households, the maximum benefit is $1,756 for a family of eight, with an additional $220 for each extra family member.
States offering up to $1,756 in SNAP payments
However, the distribution dates for SNAP payments vary by state. While some states distribute the benefits on a single day, others spread them out over several days throughout the month. Below is a schedule of payment dates for select states:
- Alabama: October 4-23
- Arizona: October 1-13
- California: October 1-10
- Florida: October 1-28
- Georgia: October 5-23
- Texas: October 1-28
In certain states, such as Alaska, Vermont, Rhode Island, and North Dakota, the payments are made in a single day, making them exceptions to the staggered schedule that is common in most states.
Here is a list of states where households can receive up to $1,756 in SNAP payments if eligible:
- Massachusetts: October 1-14
- Michigan: October 3-21
- Nebraska: October 1-5
- New York: October 1-9
- Ohio: October 2-20
- Washington: October 1-20
Variations in payments by state
States like Alaska and Hawaii typically offer higher SNAP payments than other states, due to the higher inflation and elevated cost of living in these areas. These differences are intended to ensure that residents in these states receive the appropriate support based on their local economic conditions.
Maximum SNAP amounts based on household size
The amount of SNAP benefits a household receives is primarily determined by two factors: the household size and its income level. Below are the maximum benefits for households in the 48 contiguous states:
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,158
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
For households with more than eight people, an additional $220 is added for each extra member.
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment for 2025 will be included in the October 2024 SNAP payments. Although the increase is meant to help recipients manage the rising cost of living, the adjustment is expected to be moderate. Still, even a small increase can provide some relief amid inflation and higher food prices.
How to check if you’re eligible for SNAP
To receive SNAP benefits, households must meet certain income and asset limits set by the USDA. Eligibility may vary slightly by state, so it’s important to check local requirements. Factors such as household income, the number of dependents, and whether any household member is elderly or disabled affect the amount of assistance received.