The USDA has confirmed that SNAP benefits have increased in most areas after the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This update affects the 48 contiguous states, the District of Columbia, Alaska, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
However, Hawaii has seen a decrease in benefits, despite the nationwide boost. For many recipients, this increase can make a significant difference, particularly for a family of four, which now receives $975 per month—up from $973 in previous years.
Contents
- 1 SNAP Payment Dates
- 2 Highest SNAP Payments
- 3 What to Expect
- 3.1 FAQs
- 3.2 When will I receive my SNAP benefits in October?
- 3.3 What is the maximum SNAP benefit for a family of four in Alaska?
- 3.4 $1,450 SSI Payments Post-2025 COLA Increase – Verify Your Eligibility
- 3.5 Did Hawaii’s SNAP benefits decrease?
- 3.6 Which states have the highest SNAP benefits after COLA?
- 3.7 How does the COLA affect SNAP benefits?
- 3.8 Social Security Maximum Benefit for Full Retirement Age Workers – Changes Following the 2025 COLA Increase
SNAP Payment Dates
While some states have completed sending all their SNAP payments, others will continue issuing food stamps for several more weeks. For instance, Texas and Florida will distribute their payments through October 28. Below is the full list of SNAP payment dates by state, organized alphabetically:
| State | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | October 4 to 23 |
| Arizona | October 1 to 13 |
| Arkansas | October 4 to 13 |
| California | October 1 to 10 |
| Colorado | October 1 to 10 |
| Delaware | October 2 to 23 |
| Florida | October 1 to 28 |
| Georgia | October 5 to 23 |
| Idaho | October 1 to 10 |
| Illinois | October 1 to 10 |
| Indiana | October 5 to 23 |
| Iowa | October 1 to 10 |
| Kansas | October 1 to 10 |
| Kentucky | October 1 to 19 |
| Louisiana | October 1 to 23 |
| Maine | October 10 to 14 |
| Maryland | October 4 to 23 |
| Massachusetts | October 1 to 14 |
| Michigan | October 3 to 21 |
| Minnesota | October 4 to 13 |
| Mississippi | October 4 to 21 |
| Missouri | October 1 to 22 |
| Montana | October 2 to 6 |
| Nevada | October 1 to 10 |
| New Mexico | October 1 to 20 |
| New York | October 1 to 9 |
| North Carolina | October 3 to 21 |
| Ohio | October 2 to 20 |
| Oklahoma | October 1 to 10 |
| Oregon | October 1 to 9 |
| Pennsylvania | First 10 business days |
| South Carolina | October 1 to 10 |
| South Dakota | October 10 |
| Tennessee | October 1 to 20 |
| Texas | October 1 to 28 |
| Utah | October 5, 11, 15 |
| Virginia | October 1 to 7 |
| Washington | October 1 to 20 |
| West Virginia | October 1 to 9 |
| Wisconsin | October 1 to 15 |
U.S. Territories:
| Territory | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Guam | October 1 to 10 |
| Puerto Rico | October 4 to 22 |
| District of Columbia | October 1 to 10 |
Highest SNAP Payments
After the 2025 COLA adjustment, certain states and territories are receiving the highest SNAP benefits. Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands top the list. Among these, Alaska has the highest payments, a result of the unique challenges the state faces, such as higher inflation, transportation costs, and energy prices. Due to these factors, Alaska is divided into three different categories: Urban, Rural 1, and Rural 2.
- In Urban Alaska, a family of four can receive up to $1,258 per month.
- In Rural 1, benefits for the same family could reach $1,572.
- In Rural 2, the highest benefits are seen, with a family of four potentially receiving up to $1,953.
These higher amounts reflect the greater cost of living and inflation driven by Alaska’s remote location and extreme weather conditions. The higher costs of goods and services, along with the logistical challenges of transporting these goods, contribute to the need for increased SNAP benefits in the state.
What to Expect
If you receive SNAP benefits, staying informed about payment schedules and understanding how COLA adjustments affect your monthly assistance is crucial. The increase in benefits will help many households keep up with rising costs in 2025, particularly in states with high inflation like Alaska. However, keep in mind that payment dates and amounts can vary by state, and it’s essential to monitor your account to ensure timely receipt of your benefits.
FAQs
When will I receive my SNAP benefits in October?
SNAP payment dates vary by state. For example, Texas and Florida issue payments through October 28.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for a family of four in Alaska?
In Alaska’s Rural 2 areas, a family of four can receive up to $1,953 per month.
Did Hawaii’s SNAP benefits decrease?
Yes, Hawaii saw a slight decrease in SNAP benefits despite the COLA adjustment.
Which states have the highest SNAP benefits after COLA?
Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands receive the highest benefits.
How does the COLA affect SNAP benefits?
The 2025 COLA increased SNAP benefits in most states, but Hawaii saw a decrease.
