The distribution of additional emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, often called “pandemic food stamps,” ended in many states in the spring of 2022. This change has left many families struggling to afford enough food. Some states are continuing to provide these extra benefits, but many are not. The end of the emergency SNAP benefits is due to a combination of factors, including the expiration of the federal government’s COVID-19 relief funds and a change in the way that SNAP benefits are calculated.
Pandemic-Era Food Aid: What’s the Latest?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many families relied on food stamps, also known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), to put food on the table. But with the pandemic receding, some of the emergency measures that expanded SNAP benefits are coming to an end.
Extensions of Pandemic-Era Food Aid
Here’s a look at what’s changing and what’s staying the same:
- Emergency Allotments Are Ending: The emergency allotments that boosted SNAP benefits by 15% each month came to an end in September 2023. This means that most SNAP recipients will see a decrease in their benefits.
- SNAP Flexibilities Are Extended: Some of the flexibilities that were put in place during the pandemic, such as allowing online purchasing and delivery of groceries, have been extended through September 2024. This means that SNAP recipients will continue to have more options for how they can use their benefits.
- SNAP Eligibility Requirements Remain Unchanged: The eligibility requirements for SNAP have not changed. To be eligible, you must meet certain income and asset limits. You can find more information about SNAP eligibility on the USDA website.
If you are a SNAP recipient, you may have received a letter from your state agency informing you about the changes to your benefits. If you have any questions about your benefits, you can contact your state agency or visit the USDA website.
Table: SNAP Benefit Changes
| Change | Effective Date |
|---|---|
| Emergency allotments end | September 2023 |
| SNAP flexibilities extended | September 2024 |
| SNAP eligibility requirements unchanged | Ongoing |
Eligibility Criteria for Extended Food Stamp Benefits
The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 expanded Pandemic Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, commonly known as food stamps) benefits for all participants through September 2021. However, from October 1, 2021, onwards, recipients must meet specific eligibility criteria to continue receiving the maximum amount of SNAP benefits. These criteria include:
Household Size and Income Requirements:
- Household Size: The number of individuals residing together and
sharing food and expenses. - Gross Income: Total income before taxes and other deductions, including
earned wages, self-employment income, Social Security, and other benefits. - Net Income: Gross income minus allowable deductions, including standard
deductions and dependent care expenses. - Asset Limit: The total value of assets excluding a home, a vehicle, and
retirement accounts, should be less than a specified amount.
Categorical Eligibility:
- TANF Recipients: Households receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy
Families (TANF) are automatically eligible for SNAP benefits. - SSI Recipients: Households receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
benefits are automatically eligible for SNAP benefits.
Other Considerations:
- Verification: Applicants must provide proof of identity, residency, household
size, and income, among other documents. - Approval: SNAP benefits are approved based on eligibility criteria and
availability of funds.
It’s important to note that each state may have additional requirements or variations in the eligibility criteria. To determine your eligibility for extended SNAP benefits, contact your local SNAP office or visit the official website of your state’s SNAP program.
The Impacts of Pandemic Food Stamps Programs
The COVID-19 pandemic brought about unprecedented challenges, leading to heightened food insecurity for households across the United States. In response, the government implemented the Pandemic Food Stamp Program, commonly referred to as the Food Stamp or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), to mitigate the impact on struggling families.
- Eligibility criteria were broadened, making more households qualify for assistance.
- Benefit amounts were increased, providing families with greater purchasing power.
- The number of SNAP recipients rose significantly during the pandemic.
- At its peak, over 40 million households received benefits, marking a substantial increase from pre-pandemic levels.
- The program helped households meet their basic nutritional needs.
- Studies have shown a positive correlation between SNAP participation and improved dietary outcomes.
- The program injected billions of dollars into the economy, stimulating local food businesses.
- Increased SNAP benefits led to greater spending on groceries, boosting the retail sector.
- The sudden influx of participants strained program resources.
- Backlogs and delays in processing applications and benefit distribution became common.
| Positive Impacts | Negative Impacts |
|---|---|
| Expanded eligibility and benefits | Increased participation |
| Nutritional security | Economic stimulus |
| Challenges and concerns | Backlogs and delays |