In 2025, SNAP recipients in the U.S. will see a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) increase. This adjustment is meant to help families keep up with inflation and the rising costs of food.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has already announced that this increase will take effect starting October 1, 2024, in most states, providing a lifeline for many families struggling with their grocery budgets.
However, not all states will see an increase. While most of the U.S. benefits, residents in Hawaii will actually face a decrease in their SNAP benefits.
This change is a reminder that COLA boosts aren’t guaranteed for everyone and depend on regional costs of living and other economic factors.
States Affected by the 2025 COLA Boost
If you’re receiving SNAP benefits in any of the 48 contiguous states, Alaska, Guam, Washington D.C., or the U.S. Virgin Islands, you will likely see a higher maximum payment amount starting October 1, 2024. However, the exact timing of the increase varies by state.
Here’s a breakdown of when different states will begin sending SNAP benefits with the 2025 COLA boost:
| State | COLA Boost Date |
|---|---|
| Alaska | October 1, 2024 |
| Arizona | October 1 to 13, 2024 |
| California | October 1 to 10, 2024 |
| Colorado | October 1 to 10, 2024 |
| Connecticut | October 1 to 3, 2024 |
| Florida | October 1 to 28, 2024 |
| Idaho | October 1 to 10, 2024 |
| Illinois | October 1 to 10, 2024 |
| Iowa | October 1 to 10, 2024 |
| Kansas | October 1 to 10, 2024 |
| Kentucky | October 1 to 19, 2024 |
| Louisiana | October 1 to 23, 2024 |
| Massachusetts | October 1 to 14, 2024 |
| Missouri | October 1 to 22, 2024 |
| Nebraska | October 1 to 5, 2024 |
| Nevada | October 1 to 10, 2024 |
| New Jersey | October 1 to 5, 2024 |
| New Mexico | October 1 to 20, 2024 |
| New York | October 1 to 9, 2024 |
| North Dakota | October 1, 2024 |
| Oklahoma | October 1 to 10, 2024 |
| Oregon | October 1 to 9, 2024 |
| Pennsylvania | First 10 business days |
| Rhode Island | October 1, 2024 |
| South Carolina | October 1 to 10, 2024 |
| Tennessee | October 1 to 20, 2024 |
| Texas | October 1 to 28, 2024 |
| Vermont | October 1, 2024 |
| Virginia | October 1 to 7, 2024 |
| Washington | October 1 to 20, 2024 |
| West Virginia | October 1 to 9, 2024 |
| Wisconsin | October 1 to 15, 2024 |
| Wyoming | October 1 to 4, 2024 |
SNAP Payment Adjustments
For SNAP recipients living in the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia, here are the new maximum monthly amounts for the fiscal year 2025, which runs from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025.
While the increase may not seem large, every extra dollar can make a big difference for families living on tight budgets.
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $292 |
| 2 people | $536 |
| 3 people | $768 |
| 4 people | $975 |
| 5 people | $1,158 |
| 6 people | $1,390 |
| 7 people | $1,536 |
| 8 people | $1,756 |
| Each additional person | + $220 |
For families with more than eight members, an extra $220 is added to the monthly benefits for each additional household member.
The Hawaii Exception
While most states will benefit from the COLA increase, Hawaii will experience a reduction in SNAP benefits.
The reason behind this is Hawaii’s cost of living adjustments work differently due to regional economic factors. Unfortunately, this is disappointing news for recipients in the state, who might already be dealing with high living expenses.
Why the COLA Increase Matters
Even small increases in SNAP payments can have a big impact. With food prices continuing to rise, the additional support from the 2025 COLA boost can help families stretch their budgets further.
Whether it’s an extra $50 or $200 per month, these amounts can help cover essentials like fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein-rich foods that are necessary for a healthy diet.
Many households rely on SNAP benefits as a critical part of their monthly food budget. If you’re living paycheck to paycheck, even minor financial changes can affect your ability to put meals on the table. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on changes like the 2025 COLA increase.
If you’re receiving SNAP benefits, be sure to check when your state will issue the updated amount and how much you can expect. Also, keep in mind that these boosts can fluctuate depending on economic conditions.
FAQs
Who gets the 2025 SNAP COLA increase?
Most states will issue the increase on or after October 1, 2024.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for 2025?
A family of eight can receive up to $1,756 monthly.
Will Hawaii see a SNAP benefit increase?
No, Hawaii will see a reduction in SNAP benefits.
How much will one person receive in SNAP benefits?
A single person can get a maximum of $292 monthly.
What does COLA mean for SNAP benefits?
COLA adjusts payments to match inflation and rising food costs.
