From October 1 through October 28, 2024, individuals across the U.S. will receive payments from the USDA. These payments are distributed to eligible recipients in all 50 states, including the District of Columbia, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. For those who qualify for SNAP benefits, this will be an important period, particularly with the upcoming cost of living adjustments (COLA) set to increase benefits slightly.
The maximum monthly benefit for one person has risen to $292, reflecting a modest increase due to COLA, adding one extra dollar per month. While this increase might seem small, it still provides extra relief in an environment where other benefits, such as those in Hawaii, have been reduced.
SNAP Payment
The USDA has released the October SNAP payment schedule for 2024, which varies by state. Below is a breakdown of payment dates for different regions.
State | Payment Date |
---|---|
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 – 10 |
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 |
Minnesota | October 4 – 13 |
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 |
New York | October 1 – 9 |
North Carolina | October 3 – 21 |
North Dakota | October 1 |
Ohio | October 2 – 20 |
Oklahoma | October 1 – 10 |
Oregon | October 1 – 9 |
Pennsylvania | First 10 business days |
Rhode Island | October 1 |
South Carolina | October 1 – 10 |
South Dakota | October 10 |
Tennessee | October 1 – 20 |
Texas | October 1 – 28 |
Utah | October 5, 11, 15 |
Vermont | October 1 |
Virginia | October 1 – 7 |
Washington | October 1 – 20 |
West Virginia | October 1 – 9 |
Wisconsin | October 1 – 15 |
Wyoming | October 1 – 4 |
Other territories and the District of Columbia have similar timelines:
- Guam: October 1 – 10
- Puerto Rico: October 4 – 22
- District of Columbia: October 1 – 10
- U.S. Virgin Islands: October 1
SNAP Benefit Adjustments
In addition to the October payment dates, there are updates to SNAP eligibility rules. Particularly, individuals aged 18 to 54 must comply with work requirements to maintain eligibility. These Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) must work at least 80 hours per month to continue receiving benefits for longer than three months within three years. This rule is of special significance to those aged 53 and 54, as the regulation will start applying to them in October.
Maximum SNAP Amounts
COLA adjustments also impact the amount of benefits available to SNAP recipients. Here is the maximum SNAP benefit for different household sizes after the COLA update:
Household Size | Maximum Benefit |
---|---|
1 | $292 |
2 | $536 |
3 | $768 |
4 | $975 |
5 | $1,158 |
6 | $1,390 |
7 | $1,536 |
8 | $1,756 |
This adjustment reflects a small increase but can be crucial for families relying on these benefits for essential groceries. Larger households naturally receive more, and it’s important to note that additional family members beyond eight increase the maximum benefit.
As we approach October, many SNAP recipients should prepare for these changes and verify their eligibility, especially considering the ABAWD work requirements.
Remember, staying updated on your state’s SNAP distribution dates and ensuring you meet work requirements can help you avoid interruptions in benefits.
FAQs
When will I receive my SNAP benefits in October?
Payment dates vary by state but fall between October 1 and October 28.
What’s the maximum SNAP benefit for one person?
The maximum benefit for one person is $292 after the COLA adjustment.
How do ABAWD work requirements affect SNAP benefits?
ABAWD recipients aged 18-54 must work 80 hours/month to maintain benefits.
Will I lose SNAP benefits if I don’t meet work requirements?
Yes, you may lose benefits after three months if you don’t meet work requirements.
How much will I receive if I have a family of four?
The maximum benefit for a family of four is $975 after the COLA update.