The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program that helps low-income individuals and families buy food. SNAP benefits are distributed monthly through electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers. In July 2023, some SNAP recipients may receive additional benefits due to a number of factors, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and rising food costs. The amount of the extra benefits will vary depending on the state in which the recipient lives and the size of their household. Recipients should contact their local SNAP office for more information about the additional benefits.
Food Stamp Schedule Changes
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, provides monthly benefits to low-income individuals and families to help them purchase food. The amount of benefits a household receives is based on its income and household size. SNAP benefits are issued electronically through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers.
Changes to the SNAP Schedule
The SNAP schedule has changed in some states in recent years. In most states, SNAP benefits are issued on a staggered schedule, with benefits being issued on different days of the month for different households. This helps to ensure that all households have access to benefits at the beginning of each month. However, some states have moved to a one-day-a-month issuance schedule, where all households receive their benefits on the same day of the month.
The table below shows the SNAP issuance schedule for some states.
| State | Issuance Schedule |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Benefits are issued on the 1st through the 20th of the month, based on the last digit of the household’s Social Security number. |
| California | Benefits are issued on the 1st through the 31st of the month, based on the last digit of the household’s Social Security number. |
| Florida | Benefits are issued on the 1st through the 20th of the month, based on the last digit of the household’s Social Security number. |
| Illinois | Benefits are issued on the 1st through the 15th of the month, based on the last digit of the household’s Social Security number. |
| New York | Benefits are issued on the 1st through the 31st of the month, based on the last digit of the household’s Social Security number. |
| Texas | Benefits are issued on the 1st through the 20th of the month, based on the last digit of the household’s Social Security number. |
- To find out the SNAP issuance schedule for your state, you can visit the website of your state’s Department of Human Services or Social Services.
- You can also call the SNAP hotline at 1-800-221-5689 for more information.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, is a nutrition assistance program that provides eligible individuals and families with a monthly electronic benefit to purchase food items.
Additional SNAP benefits, also known as emergency allotments, are authorized based on the federal public health emergency declaration due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The emergency allotments were initially authorized through June 2023; however, the extension beyond June will depend on the approval by Congress.
If the emergency allotments are extended beyond June, additional benefits will be issued in July 2023. The amount of additional benefits a household receives depends on their regular SNAP benefit amount.
Note: Information about the extension of emergency allotments is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please check with your state’s SNAP agency.
Eligibility Requirements for SNAP
- Be a U.S. citizen or a qualified noncitizen.
- Have a Social Security number or apply for one.
- Meet income and asset limits.
- Be willing to work, if able-bodied and between 18 and 49 years old, without dependents.
Note: The income and asset limits vary by state and household size. To determine your eligibility, you can apply online or contact your state’s SNAP office.
How to Apply for SNAP
To apply for SNAP, you can either apply online or in person at your state’s SNAP office. You will need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of identity (such as a driver’s license or state ID card)
- Proof of income (such as pay stubs or bank statements)
- Proof of expenses (such as rent or mortgage payments and utility bills)
- Proof of resources (such as savings and checking account statements)
Once your application is processed, you will be notified of your eligibility status. If you are approved, you will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which you can use to purchase food items at authorized retailers.
SNAP Benefits
The amount of SNAP benefits you receive each month depends on your household size and income. The maximum SNAP benefit amount for a household of one person in 2023 is $281 per month. The maximum benefit amount for a household of four people is $835 per month.
In addition to the regular SNAP benefits, you may also be eligible for additional benefits, such as:
- Emergency allotments: These additional benefits are authorized during times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Thrifty Food Plan: This plan provides a higher benefit amount for households with elderly or disabled members.
- Homeless shelter allowance: This allowance is available to households that live in homeless shelters.
- Disabled adult allowance: This allowance is available to households that include a disabled adult member.
To learn more about SNAP benefits, you can visit the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service website or contact your state’s SNAP office.
SNAP Contact Information
To find the SNAP office in your state, visit the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service website or call the toll-free USDA National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY (1-866-348-6479).
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit | Net Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,552 | $1,163 |
| 2 | $2,091 | $1,574 |
| 3 | $2,629 | $1,985 |
| 4 | $3,168 | $2,397 |
| 5 | $3,707 | $2,808 |
| 6 | $4,246 | $3,219 |
| 7 | $4,785 | $3,631 |
| 8 | $5,324 | $4,042 |
Note: The income limits vary by state. To determine your eligibility, you can apply online or contact your state’s SNAP office.
Why Are Food Stamp Benefits Increasing in July?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, provides food-purchasing assistance to low-income individuals and families. The program is administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is available in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
In response to the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, the USDA temporarily increased SNAP benefits by 15% in January 2021. This increase was extended several times and was set to expire in June 2023. However, Congress recently passed a bill that extends the 15% increase through September 2023.
Reasons for Increased Food Stamp Benefits
- The COVID-19 Pandemic: The pandemic has caused widespread economic hardship, leading to increased food insecurity. The 15% increase in SNAP benefits is intended to help families struggling to put food on the table.
- Rising Food Costs: Food prices have been rising steadily in recent months, making it more difficult for families to afford nutritious food. The increase in SNAP benefits will help offset the cost of food and ensure that families can access healthy meals.
- High Inflation: Inflation has been a major concern in the United States, with prices for goods and services rising at a rapid pace. The 15% increase in SNAP benefits will help families cope with the rising cost of living and ensure that they can afford basic necessities.
The following table shows the monthly maximum SNAP benefit amounts for different household sizes, effective July 1, 2023:
| Household Size | Maximum Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $281 |
| 2 people | $516 |
| 3 people | $782 |
| 4 people | $1,169 |
| 5 people | $1,441 |
| 6 people | $1,713 |
| 7 people | $1,985 |
| 8 people | $2,257 |
SNAP benefits are distributed through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers. To apply for SNAP benefits, individuals and families can contact their local state or county social services office.
Eligibility Criteria to Receive Food Stamps
Before applying for food stamps, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria to determine if you qualify. Here are the general requirements:
- Proof of Income: You must provide proof of your income from all sources, including wages, self-employment income, Social Security benefits, and unemployment benefits.
- Asset Limit: Your assets, such as bank accounts and investments, must be below certain limits to qualify for food stamps.
- Student Status: Students who are enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education are not eligible for food stamps, except in certain circumstances.
- Work Requirement: Able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 49 without dependents must meet certain work requirements to receive food stamps.
- Disability or Impairment: Individuals with disabilities or impairments that prevent them from working may be eligible for food stamps regardless of their work status.
Applying for Food Stamps Online
Follow these steps to apply for food stamps online:
- Visit the official website of your state’s Department of Human Services or Social Services.
- Locate the application form for food stamps, usually called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application.
- Fill out the application carefully and completely, providing accurate information about your income, assets, and household members.
- Attach any required documents, such as proof of income, proof of identity, and proof of residency.
- Submit the completed application online through the state’s website or mail it to the specified address.
How to Apply for Food Stamps in Person
To apply for food stamps in person, follow these steps:
- Find the nearest office of your state’s Department of Human Services or Social Services.
- Inquire about the food stamp application process and obtain the necessary forms.
- Fill out the application completely and accurately, providing all the required information.
- Attach any required documents, such as proof of income, proof of identity, and proof of residency.
- Submit the completed application and documents to the caseworker at the office.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long does it take to get approved for food stamps? | The processing time for food stamp applications varies by state, but generally takes between 10 and 30 days. |
| What can I buy with food stamps? | Food stamps can be used to purchase most food items, including fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and bread. |
| Can I use food stamps to buy prepared foods? | Yes, you can use food stamps to buy prepared foods from authorized retailers, but there are some restrictions. |
Well, that’s all the info I have for you today about the extra SNAP benefits in July! I know it’s a lot to take in, but I hope this article has been helpful. If you still have questions, be sure to check out the USDA website or give your local SNAP office a call.
Thanks for taking the time to read! If you enjoyed this article, be sure to visit again later. I update my site regularly with new information on all things related to SNAP benefits. Until next time, take care and stay safe!