In November, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments will be distributed across the United States. For some states, the payments will occur in one lump sum on November 1, while others will stagger them throughout the month.
Alaska and Hawaii will issue some of the largest SNAP payments in the country, thanks to adjustments for the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). Here’s a breakdown of these substantial benefits.
Largest SNAP Benefits in Alaska
Alaska stands out for its higher SNAP payment levels due to unique cost-of-living considerations, especially for residents in rural areas.
All SNAP recipients in Alaska will receive their benefits on November 1, regardless of their location within the state.
However, SNAP payment amounts vary widely based on whether beneficiaries reside in urban, Rural 1, or Rural 2 areas, with Rural 2 areas receiving the highest benefit levels.
Alaska SNAP Payment Amounts by Household Size and Area
| Household Size | Urban Area | Rural 1 Area | Rural 2 Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $377 | $481 | $586 |
| 2 members | $692 | $882 | $1,074 |
| 3 people | $991 | $1,263 | $1,538 |
| 4 beneficiaries | $1,258 | $1,604 | $1,953 |
| 5 recipients | $1,494 | $1,905 | $2,319 |
| 6 members | $1,793 | $2,287 | $2,783 |
| 7 members | $1,982 | $2,527 | $3,076 |
| 8 members | $2,265 | $2,888 | $3,516 |
| Each additional member | +$283 | +$361 | +$440 |
For a family of eight, Alaska’s Rural 2 area offers the largest SNAP benefit in the country at $3,516, helping to offset the high cost of living in remote regions.
SNAP Payments in Hawaii
Hawaii also offers substantial SNAP benefits, adjusted for the state’s high cost of living. SNAP payments in Hawaii are distributed on two separate dates in early November:
- November 3: Last names beginning with letters A–I.
- November 5: Last names beginning with letters J–Z.
Hawaii SNAP Payment Amounts by Household Size
| Household Size | Maximum Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $517 |
| 2 members | $954 |
| 3 people | $1,369 |
| 4 beneficiaries | $1,723 |
| 5 recipients | $2,034 |
| 6 members | $2,440 |
| 7 members | $2,759 |
| 8 members | $3,102 |
| Each additional member | +$343 |
In Hawaii, a single household member can receive up to $517, while a family of eight may qualify for up to $3,102. This level of support is essential for families navigating Hawaii’s high living costs.
2025 COLA Adjustments and SNAP Benefits
The 2025 COLA adjustment has influenced the maximum SNAP benefit amounts across the United States, ensuring that payments reflect the current cost of living. For those living in the 48 contiguous states, maximum SNAP benefits will be up to $1,756 for a family of eight. A single household member can receive up to $292, while a family of four may qualify for up to $975.
Summary of Key SNAP Benefits by State
| State | Payment Date(s) | Max Benefit for 1 Person | Max Benefit for 8 People |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | November 1 | $586 (Rural 2) | $3,516 (Rural 2) |
| Hawaii | November 3 & 5 | $517 | $3,102 |
| Contiguous 48 States | Varies | $292 | $1,756 |
These high SNAP benefit payments in Alaska and Hawaii reflect adjustments for the unique economic conditions in these areas, ensuring that beneficiaries have access to adequate food resources.
For more information on state-by-state SNAP benefits and eligibility, visit the USDA’s official SNAP page at https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/fy-2025-cola.
