Starting in October 2024, several states have begun sending Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments to eligible recipients.
While some states started disbursing payments on October 1, others will follow suit from October 4 onward.
Let’s take a look at the states issuing SNAP payments starting on October 4 and how recipients can determine when to expect their benefits.
States Starting SNAP Payments on October 4
According to the USDA and the Food and Nutrition Service, the following states will start issuing SNAP benefits on October 4: Alabama, Arkansas, Maryland, Minnesota, and Mississippi.
Each state has a unique method of distributing payments, typically based on case numbers or Social Security Numbers (SSN).
Alabama
Alabama will distribute SNAP benefits from October 4 through October 23. Payments are assigned based on the last two digits of your SNAP case number. For example, if your case number ends in 00-04, your benefits will be loaded onto your EBT card on October 4.
Arkansas
Arkansas will also begin disbursing benefits on October 4 and continue until October 13. However, unlike Alabama, Arkansas uses the last digit of your SSN to determine the payment date. If your SSN ends in 0 or 1, you’ll receive your benefits on October 4.
Maryland
In Maryland, SNAP benefits will be distributed between October 4 and October 23. The schedule is based on the first three letters of your last name. For example, if the first three letters of your last name are between AAA and BAO, you will receive your payment on October 4.
Minnesota
Minnesota’s payment schedule follows the last digit of your case number. If your case number ends in 4, your benefits will be available on October 4. Case numbers ending in 1 will receive benefits on October 11, and those ending in 0 will be paid on October 10.
Mississippi
Mississippi will send out payments between October 4 and October 21. Recipients should check the last two digits of their case number to determine their payment date. For example, case numbers ending in 00-04 will receive benefits on October 4.
Maximum SNAP Benefit Amounts
Following the 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), the maximum monthly benefit amounts have increased. These amounts are consistent across the 48 contiguous states. Here’s a quick look at the maximum SNAP benefit based on household size:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $292 |
| 4 People | $975 |
| 8 People | $1,756 |
The benefits you receive depend on household size and income, with these being the upper limits.
How to Check Your Payment Date
To determine when you will receive your SNAP benefits, follow these steps:
- Locate Your Case Number: The last digit or two of your SNAP case number or SSN will determine your payment date, depending on your state.
- Check Your State’s Payment Schedule: Each state has a specific schedule that aligns with the last digit of your case number or SSN. Verify this with your state’s SNAP office or website.
- Confirm Payment Date: If you’re new to the program, you’ll be informed of your payment dates when your benefits are approved. If you don’t receive your payment on the expected date, it could be due to missing paperwork, changes in your household, or a missed recertification deadline.
Troubleshooting Payment Issues
If your payment doesn’t arrive on the expected date, there could be an issue with your case. Here are a few common reasons:
- Missing or incomplete paperwork
- Changes in household circumstances
- Missed recertification deadlines
In such cases, contact your local SNAP office to resolve the issue.
For many households across Alabama, Arkansas, Maryland, Minnesota, and Mississippi, October 4 marks the start of the disbursement of SNAP benefits.
Understanding how your state schedules payments is crucial to ensuring you receive your food stamp benefits on time. If you’re unsure, you can always check with your local SNAP office or refer to your case number or SSN to verify the payment date.
FAQs
How do I know my SNAP payment date in Alabama?
Check the last two digits of your SNAP case number.
When will Arkansas start sending SNAP payments?
Arkansas begins sending payments on October 4, based on your SSN.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for a family of four?
A family of four can receive up to $975 per month.
How are payments scheduled in Maryland?
Payments are based on the first three letters of your last name.
What if my SNAP payment doesn’t arrive on time?
Contact your local SNAP office to resolve any issues with your case.
