SNAP Benefit Payments Rise in October – States with the Largest Increases Announced

Millions of Americans rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help cover their daily meal expenses. Administered by the USDA, SNAP offers much-needed assistance to low-income individuals and families.

Since each state manages its own program, the timing of SNAP payments can vary across the country. In October 2024, states are distributing SNAP payments on different dates, which helps streamline the process and meet the needs of local populations.

If you depend on SNAP benefits, knowing the payment schedule for your state is crucial for planning your monthly budget. Below is a list of the distribution dates for each state in October 2024.

Payment Schedule

Here’s a look at when you can expect your SNAP benefits to be distributed in October, broken down by state:

State	SNAP Payment Dates
Alabama	October 4 – 23
Alaska	October 1
Arizona	October 1 – 13
Arkansas	October 4 – 13
California	October 1 – 10
Colorado	October 1 – 10
Connecticut	October 1 – 3
Delaware	October 2 – 23
Florida	October 1 – 28
Georgia	October 5 – 23
Hawaii	October 3 – 5
Idaho	October 1 – 10
Illinois	October 1 – 20
Indiana	October 5 – 23
Iowa	October 1 – 10
Kansas	October 1 – 10
Kentucky	October 1 – 19
Louisiana	October 1 – 23
Maine	October 10 – 14
Maryland	October 4 – 23
Massachusetts	October 1 – 14
Michigan	October 3 – 21
Mississippi	October 4 – 21
Missouri	October 1 – 22
Montana	October 2 – 6
Nebraska	October 1 – 5
Nevada	October 1 – 10
New Hampshire	October 5
New Jersey	October 1 – 5
New Mexico	October 1 – 20

This staggered payment system ensures that beneficiaries can plan their grocery shopping around the expected arrival of their benefits.

Increases

Starting October 1, 2024, a new increase in SNAP benefits will take effect, giving households a bit more financial assistance. However, the program’s eligibility rules are also changing due to the Budget Responsibility Act. The new work requirements affect able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) and will expand to cover a broader age range.

Work Requirements

• Who is Affected? ABAWDs aged 18-52, who are able-bodied and childless, will now need to meet work requirements (working at least 80 hours per month), be enrolled in education or job training programs, or both. Starting in October 2024, the age requirement will extend to those aged 53-54.
• Exemptions: Veterans, homeless individuals, young people aged 18-24 who have aged out of foster care, pregnant individuals, those with physical or mental disabilities, and households with children under 18 are exempt from these new rules.

These new rules aim to help more individuals engage in work or job training, but they also restrict the amount of time ABAWDs can receive benefits if they don’t meet the work requirement—limited to just three months over a three-year period.

Planning

With these new requirements and changes in benefit amounts, it’s more important than ever to stay informed about your state’s specific guidelines and payment dates. Additionally, reviewing your household’s eligibility and knowing the updated work requirements will help you avoid losing benefits.

For ABAWDs, making sure you comply with the new work rules is essential to continue receiving SNAP benefits beyond the three-month limit. Many states offer job training or employment assistance programs that can help you meet these requirements.

SNAP remains a critical program for millions of Americans struggling to afford food. With payments varying by state and new eligibility rules in place for 2024, beneficiaries should review their state’s payment schedule and ensure they meet the new work requirements to maintain their benefits.

The SNAP benefit increases starting in October 2024 will provide some relief, but the expanded work requirements for ABAWDs mean more people need to be engaged in work, education, or training programs to stay eligible.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need assistance, reach out to your local SNAP office or visit the USDA’s website for more details. Stay informed, plan ahead, and take advantage of available resources to maximize your SNAP benefits.

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