The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) plays a crucial role in helping millions of Americans access nutritious food. With inflation hitting household budgets hard, every dollar counts, especially when it comes to food purchases. September has already seen benefits paid out by 26 states, and 12 states have fully delivered their benefits this month. The ongoing distribution highlights the importance of SNAP benefits to American families.
Despite being a federal program, the timing of when benefits are credited varies by state. Each state follows its own schedule, often determined by the first letter of the primary recipient’s last name or the last digit of their Social Security number.
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SNAP Benefits
SNAP recipients receive their benefits through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which operates similarly to a debit card but can only be used to buy food at approved stores. The card is refilled automatically each month, with the amount of benefits depending on household size. According to federal guidelines, the maximum benefit for a family of eight is $1,751 in September, while individuals receive a minimum of $291.
This payment structure ensures families, especially larger ones, can meet their food needs. Starting in October 2024, new maximum allotments will be introduced. For instance, a single person will be able to receive $292, while a household of eight can expect $1,756 in benefits, with an additional $220 for each extra person.
| Household Size | Monthly SNAP Benefit (Starting October 2024) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $292 |
| 2 persons | $536 |
| 3 persons | $768 |
| 4 persons | $975 |
| 5 persons | $1,158 |
| 6 persons | $1,390 |
| 7 persons | $1,536 |
| 8 persons | $1,756 |
| Each extra | $220 |
SNAP Benefits
So far, states like Arizona, Arkansas, and Minnesota have completed or are still in the process of paying out September benefits, with payment dates ranging from the 1st to the 28th. Here’s a breakdown of the payment schedules for select states in September:
| State | Payment Schedule |
|---|---|
| Arizona | September 1–13 |
| Massachusetts | September 1–14 |
| Kentucky | September 1–19 |
| New Mexico | September 1–20 |
| Tennessee | September 1–20 |
| Florida | September 1–28 |
| Texas | September 1–28 |
On the other hand, some states have already completed their September distributions. These include:
| State | Payment Schedule |
|---|---|
| New York | September 1–9 |
| Oregon | September 1–9 |
| California | September 1–10 |
| Colorado | September 1–10 |
| South Carolina | September 1–10 |
Security Concerns
A concerning issue for SNAP recipients is the growing problem of stolen benefits, also known as skimming. Low-income families who have had their benefits stolen through fraudulent means may not be eligible for compensation if Congress does not take action by September 30. An estimated $61.5 million in SNAP benefits was stolen between 2023 and early 2024, and the true figure may be even higher.
Unfortunately, electronic benefits transfer cards used for SNAP lack the same security features as modern debit cards, such as embedded microchips. This makes them vulnerable to theft at cash registers and ATMs where magnetic strip technology is used. Without federal consumer protections in place, stolen benefits cannot be easily replaced, leaving affected families in dire financial situations.
Representative Ruppersberger is leading a bipartisan effort to extend protections for victims of skimming. However, with Congress focused on avoiding a government shutdown, it seems unlikely that any stand-alone legislation will pass before the September 30 deadline.
Looking Ahead
For SNAP recipients, the future looks uncertain. While many families rely on these benefits to get by, the ongoing threat of theft, combined with the looming financial struggles within the government, puts the program at risk. The new allotments scheduled for October 2024 will help ease some of the burdens of inflation, but many beneficiaries remain vulnerable to losing their funds due to security gaps.
The push to reform the EBT card system is critical, as it would protect millions of low-income Americans who depend on SNAP to feed their families. Until then, SNAP recipients must remain vigilant about protecting their cards and benefits from skimming scams.
FAQs
How much can a family of eight receive in SNAP benefits?
They can receive up to $1,751 in September, increasing to $1,756 in October.
How do states distribute SNAP benefits?
States use schedules based on factors like last names or Social Security numbers.
Are SNAP benefits at risk due to skimming?
Yes, without federal protections, stolen benefits may not be replaced.
What is an EBT card used for?
EBT cards are used to purchase food at authorized retailers.
Will SNAP benefits increase in 2024?
Yes, new maximum allotments will start on October 1, 2024.
