In March, some people who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which are also commonly known as food stamps, may receive additional funds to help them purchase food. This additional benefit is called an emergency allotment and is given to help families who are facing financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Emergency allotments have been provided since March 2020 to help people deal with the associated economic downturn. Information about the emergency allotment for March will soon be available, so those who receive SNAP benefits should keep an eye out for updates from their local government agency or check their online account for any notifications.
SNAP Schedule
Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards are used to distribute food stamps or other government benefits to eligible recipients. The timing of supplemental Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits can vary by state. To find out when your state issues its extra SNAP benefits, check your local government website.
Estimated Schedule of Supplemental SNAP Benefits for March 2023
| State | Distribution Date |
|---|---|
| Alabama | March 28 |
| Alaska | March 24 |
| Arizona | March 22 |
| Arkansas | March 20 |
| California | March 28 |
| Colorado | March 21 |
How to Check Your EBT Card Balance
- Log in to your state’s EBT portal.
- Call the customer service number on the back of your EBT card.
- Use the mobile app provided by your state.
Emergency SNAP Allotments Ending
The emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) allotments provided during the COVID-19 pandemic will end in March 2023. Emergency allotments were temporary increases in SNAP benefits implemented in March 2020 to help families afford food during the pandemic. As a result, most households will experience a reduction in their SNAP benefits starting in March 2023.
The amount of the reduction will vary depending on the household size and income. However, the average household will see a reduction of about $95 per month in SNAP benefits.
The end of emergency SNAP allotments will likely have a significant impact on food-insecure households. A report by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities found that the emergency SNAP allotments prevented 4.1 million people from falling into poverty in 2021.
What to Do If You Are Affected by the SNAP Benefit Changes
- Apply for other forms of government assistance, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) or the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP).
- Look for local food banks or pantries that can provide you with food assistance.
- Consider starting a garden to grow your own food.
- Look for ways to save money on food, such as buying in bulk, cooking at home, and using coupons.
For more information on the end of emergency SNAP allotments, visit the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website.
Table: How Much Will SNAP Benefits Decrease in March 2023?
| Household Size | SNAP Benefit Reduction |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $95 |
| 2 people | $155 |
| 3 people | $213 |
| 4 people | $270 |
| 5 people | $328 |
| 6 people | $385 |
| 7 people | $442 |
| 8 people | $499 |
Food Stamps Emergency Allotments
Emergency allotments are extra food stamps given to low-income households during emergencies, such as a pandemic or natural disaster. The emergency allotments are designed to help families meet their basic food needs.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has authorized emergency allotments for all states since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. The emergency allotments were set to expire in September 2021, but were extended through November 2021. In December 2021, Congress passed a bill that extended the emergency allotments through March 2022.
How Much Are Emergency Allotments?
| Household Size | Monthly Emergency Allotment |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $281 |
| 2 people | $459 |
| 3 people | $632 |
| 4 people | $805 |
| 5 people | $978 |
| 6 people | $1,151 |
| 7 people | $1,325 |
| 8 people | $1,498 |
The exact amount of the emergency allotment depends on the household size.
Who is Eligible for Emergency Allotments?
- Households that are eligible for regular food stamps are also eligible for emergency allotments.
- Households that are not eligible for regular food stamps may still be eligible for emergency allotments if they meet certain criteria, such as having a low income and being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
To apply for emergency allotments, households should contact their local food stamp office.
Additional Resources
Monthly Food Stamp Benefits
Are We Going to Get Extra Food Stamps in March?
The amount of food stamps you receive each month depends on your household size and income. A household of one person can receive up to $281 per month, while a household of four can receive up to $835 per month.
The maximum amount of food stamps you can receive is adjusted each year based on the cost of living. The current maximum amounts are:
- One-person household: $281
- Two-person household: $516
- Three-person household: $740
- Four-person household: $835
- Each additional person: $194
To apply for food stamps, you can go to your local Department of Social Services or apply online.
Will We Get Extra Food Stamps in March?
Typically, there are no additional food stamps provided in March.
However, in some cases, the government may provide additional food stamps to help families in need. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the government provided extra food stamps to help families who were struggling financially.
To find out if you are eligible for extra food stamps, you can contact your local Department of Social Services or visit the USDA website.
| Household Size | Maximum Benefit |
|---|---|
| One person | $281 |
| Two-person household | $516 |
| Three-person household | $740 |
| Four-person household | $835 |
| Each additional person | $194 |
Hey folks, thanks a bunch for joining me on this wild ride of figuring out what’s up with those extra food stamps in March. I know it can be a real rollercoaster, but I hope you found this article helpful in navigating the twists and turns.
Remember, things can change in the world of food stamps, so be sure to loop back around to our site later for the latest updates. And while you’re here, don’t be a stranger! We’ve got loads of other juicy articles and resources that might tickle your fancy. Until next time, keep your bellies full and your spirits high!