The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), managed by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), provides essential support to low-income individuals and families.
In 2025, SNAP recipients in Texas and nationwide can expect an increase in benefits due to the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
This annual adjustment, based on inflation data from the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), is designed to help recipients keep up with rising food costs. Below, we’ll cover what to expect from the 2025 COLA, how it affects SNAP benefits, and when the adjustment will likely take effect.
When Will the Texas SNAP 2025 COLA Adjustment Take Effect?
For SNAP recipients in Texas, the COLA adjustment typically takes effect at the beginning of the federal fiscal year, which starts on October 1.
This means that the updated benefits reflecting the COLA adjustment for 2025 will likely be issued starting in October 2024. Texas HHSC will update the benefits based on federal guidelines, ensuring recipients receive the correct amount for the year ahead.
What is the Purpose of SNAP?
SNAP aims to improve food security and nutrition for low-income individuals and families by providing a monthly benefit to purchase essential food items.
As of recent estimates, over 40 million Americans rely on SNAP benefits to meet basic food needs. The benefits are usable at approved retailers to purchase nutritious foods, such as fresh produce, meats, bread, dairy products, and non-prepared food items.
What SNAP Cannot Be Used For
While SNAP benefits cover essential food items, they cannot be used for non-food items like:
- Cleaning products
- Toiletries and paper goods
- Pet food
- Household supplies
Expected COLA Increase for 2025
The 2025 COLA for SNAP is projected to be in the range of 2.5% to 3% based on inflation forecasts. This adjustment will increase the maximum monthly benefit for recipients, though the exact amount will vary based on household size and location. For example:
- A household currently receiving around $973 per month could see an increase to approximately $975, though this may differ slightly based on federal updates.
- For SNAP recipients in high-cost areas, such as Alaska, maximum benefits can be significantly higher due to local costs. In Alaska, for instance:
- Urban areas can provide up to $1,258 for a family of four.
- Rural areas range from $1,693 to as high as $1,953 for the same family size.
These variations reflect the differing costs of living across the U.S., with Alaska, Guam, and the Virgin Islands generally offering the highest benefits.
Highest SNAP Benefits by State
The state of Alaska leads the U.S. in SNAP benefits due to its elevated cost of living, which results from transportation challenges and a unique climate. Benefits vary significantly across three geographic tiers in Alaska:
- Urban Areas: Up to $1,258 for a family of four.
- Rural 1 Areas: Up to $1,693.
- Rural 2 Areas: Up to $1,953.
Other areas with above-average SNAP benefits include Guam and the Virgin Islands. In Texas and most other states, the SNAP benefits are aligned with the federal maximum, adjusted annually by the COLA.
How Texas SNAP Recipients Can Prepare for the 2025 COLA Adjustment
- Review Benefit Notices: Texas HHSC will send notices informing SNAP recipients of any changes in their monthly benefit amount due to the COLA. Recipients should check their benefits through the YourTexasBenefits portal or app to stay informed.
- Budget Accordingly: Knowing the new benefit amount can help households plan their grocery budget, particularly as prices fluctuate.
- Plan for October Changes: Since the adjustment typically takes effect in October, households can expect updated benefits in the fall.
Fact Check on SNAP COLA and Benefit Increases
While the COLA adjustment for 2025 is confirmed to be in the 2.5% to 3% range, the exact figures will be finalized based on the inflation data closer to October 2024.
Alaska’s high-cost regions will continue to receive the most significant benefits, with adjustments reflecting local costs. Other states, including Texas, will see more modest increases based on the federal guidelines.
The COLA adjustment aims to ensure that SNAP benefits remain adequate to cover rising food costs, enhancing food security for millions of Americans. For accurate, up-to-date information, it’s recommended to verify details through official sources like Texas HHSC or the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
