SNAP Food Stamps $292 In October 2024: Know Payment Schedule & More Details

October 2024 marks an important time for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients, as new cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) and changes to eligibility rules take effect.

For millions of Americans, these updates mean slight increases in benefits and the expansion of work requirements for some recipients. Let’s break down what these changes mean and how they could affect you.

COLA Adjustment

Starting October 1, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has introduced a slight increase in SNAP benefits due to COLA. For example, the maximum SNAP benefit for a single-person household has increased from $291 to $292.

While a one-dollar increase may seem small, it adds up over time, especially considering the rising cost of food. The COLA adjustments are intended to help families keep pace with inflation and other rising expenses.

Payment Schedule

The SNAP payment schedule varies by state, and benefits are distributed between October 1 and October 28, 2024. Recipients in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, will receive payments within this timeframe. Here’s a look at a few key payment dates:

• California: October 1 to 10
• Florida: October 1 to 28
• Texas: October 1 to 28
• New York: October 1 to 9

Each state follows its own unique schedule, so it’s important to know when your benefits will be available.

Maximum SNAP Benefit Amounts

With the new COLA adjustments, here are the maximum benefit amounts for different household sizes:

Household Size	Maximum Benefit (October 2024)	Previous Amount
1 person	$292	$291
2 people	$536	$535
3 people	$768	$766
4 people	$975	$973
5 people	$1,158	$1,155
6 people	$1,390	$1,386
7 people	$1,536	$1,532
8 people	$1,756	$1,751

For each additional person, the benefit increases by $220, up from $219. These amounts are even higher in Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands due to higher food costs in those areas.

ABAWD Rule Expansion

One significant update to SNAP in October 2024 is the expansion of work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD).

Previously, the rule applied to individuals aged 18-52, requiring them to work, be in school, or engage in training for at least 80 hours per month to continue receiving benefits after three months. Now, the rule has been extended to those aged 52-54 as well.

If you are an ABAWD and don’t meet these requirements, you could lose your benefits after three months unless you qualify for an exemption.

Exemptions are available for veterans, the homeless, people with disabilities, and those with dependents under 18 years old. It’s crucial to stay informed about these requirements to avoid losing your benefits.

Will SNAP Benefits Increase in 2025?

Yes, SNAP benefits are likely to increase again in 2025, based on future COLA adjustments. These increases depend on inflation rates and other economic factors, so while no exact figures have been announced yet, the pattern of small yearly increases is expected to continue.

While the COLA increase for SNAP benefits in October 2024 may seem modest, every little bit helps households struggling with food insecurity.

Knowing your state’s payment schedule and staying aware of new ABAWD requirements can help ensure you continue receiving your benefits without interruption.

Keep an eye out for future updates, as SNAP benefits will likely rise again in 2025, helping more families manage their grocery costs.

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