Many states in the U.S. will begin issuing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments starting on October 4, with eligible recipients receiving food stamp benefits.
While some states started distributing benefits on October 1, others are scheduled to send them out from October 4.
States such as Alabama, Arkansas, Maryland, Minnesota, and Mississippi will begin sending these crucial benefits to those who qualify, helping millions put food on the table.
Payments Overview
SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, is an essential aid program for low-income individuals and families, offering them financial assistance to buy food. The benefits are loaded onto Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used like debit cards to purchase groceries.
The amount received depends on several factors, such as income, household size, and local living costs.
For example, after the recent 2025 COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) increase, the maximum payment for an individual is $292, while a family of four can receive up to $975. Larger households, such as a family of eight, may qualify for benefits worth up to $1,756. These amounts apply across the 48 contiguous states.
Alabama and Arkansas Payments
For residents of Alabama and Arkansas, the first payments will go out starting on October 4, but distribution timelines vary between the two states.
In Alabama, SNAP benefits will be distributed from October 4 through October 23. When will you receive your payment? The last two digits of your case number hold the key. For instance, if your case number ends between 00 and 04, you’ll receive your benefits on October 4.
Arkansas, on the other hand, will only distribute benefits until October 13. Here, eligibility is tied to the recipient’s Social Security Number (SSN). For example, if your SSN ends in 0 or 1, you will receive your benefits on October 4.
Maryland, Minnesota, and Mississippi Payments
Maryland, Minnesota, and Mississippi also follow different guidelines for distributing benefits, though all three states will begin payments on October 4.
In Maryland, the distribution runs until October 23, but it depends on the first three letters of your last name. For example, those with last names starting with letters from AAA to BAO will receive their SNAP benefits on October 4.
Minnesota has a more complex system. If your case number ends in 4, your benefits will be loaded onto your EBT card on October 4. However, if it ends in 1 or 0, your payment dates are later, on October 11 and 10, respectively.
Mississippi will also start payments on October 4 and continue issuing them until October 21. Like Alabama, Mississippi uses the last two digits of the case number to determine when benefits are sent. Case numbers ending in 00-04 will get their benefits first, on October 4.
Timing and Distribution of Benefits
State-to-state variations in the distribution of SNAP benefits can be confusing, but they are necessary due to logistical factors and the sheer number of recipients.
In most cases, payments are staggered throughout the month to ensure smooth processing. Understanding your state’s specific system and checking your case number or SSN can help you stay on top of your benefit schedule.
Here’s a quick overview of key dates for these five states:
| State | Payment Start | Payment End | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | October 4 | October 23 | Case number last two digits |
| Arkansas | October 4 | October 13 | SSN last digit |
| Maryland | October 4 | October 23 | First 3 letters of last name |
| Minnesota | October 4 | October 11 | Case number last digit |
| Mississippi | October 4 | October 21 | Case number last two digits |
These varying systems aim to spread out distribution and avoid overwhelming the system, ensuring that those who need assistance receive it promptly and without disruption.
If you reside in any of these states and expect to receive SNAP benefits, it’s essential to know your case details to determine the exact date your benefits will be loaded onto your EBT card.
Ultimately, SNAP is a lifeline for many Americans, ensuring that families and individuals have access to nutritious food. As payments roll out across these states, checking your eligibility and staying informed can help you make the most of this critical support.
FAQs
When does Alabama start sending SNAP payments?
Alabama will begin sending payments from October 4 to October 23.
How is Arkansas distributing SNAP benefits?
Arkansas will distribute benefits from October 4 to October 13, based on SSN.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for a family of four?
A family of four can receive up to $975 in benefits.
When will Mississippi send out SNAP payments?
Mississippi’s SNAP payments will be distributed from October 4 to October 21.
How does Maryland distribute SNAP benefits?
Maryland distributes benefits based on the first three letters of recipients’ last names.
