As Thanksgiving approaches, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients in Texas and Florida will receive their benefit payments directly on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024.
For those eligible to receive food stamp payments on this date, these funds can help cover Thanksgiving meal essentials, allowing families to gather and enjoy a holiday meal with the support of their SNAP benefits.
Here’s what recipients in Texas and Florida need to know about eligibility and what food items can be purchased for Thanksgiving.
SNAP Payment Schedule for Thanksgiving
Florida
Florida issues SNAP benefits from November 1 to November 28. For recipients to receive their benefits on Thanksgiving Day, their Florida case number must end with the ninth and eighth digits ranging from 96 to 99 (read backward, omitting the 10th digit).
Texas
In Texas, SNAP recipients with specific Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) numbers will also receive their benefits on Thanksgiving Day. Those with EDG numbers ending in 42–45, 50–53, or 96–99 will have their food stamp benefits deposited on November 28.
Maximum Benefit Amounts
In both Florida and Texas, the SNAP maximum benefit amounts are as follows:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly SNAP Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,144 |
| 6 | $1,339 |
| 7 | $1,480 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
These funds allow families of all sizes to purchase food items that make the Thanksgiving holiday meal possible.
Thanksgiving Foods Eligible for Purchase with SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits can be used for a wide range of food items, including those essential for a holiday meal. Below is a list of SNAP-eligible items that can help families prepare a memorable Thanksgiving feast:
- Meat, Poultry, and Fish: Turkey, chicken, ham, and other proteins commonly served during Thanksgiving are all eligible.
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Any type of fresh produce, including potatoes, green beans, cranberries, and sweet potatoes, is SNAP-eligible and ideal for traditional holiday side dishes.
- Dairy Items: Milk, cheese, butter, and other dairy products are allowed under SNAP, useful for cooking and baking various Thanksgiving recipes.
- Breads and Cereals: Bread rolls, stuffing mixes, and other grain-based items are all eligible for purchase with SNAP.
- Snacks and Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Non-alcoholic drinks like juice and soda, along with snacks, can be purchased with SNAP, which helps round out the meal for guests.
- Seeds and Plants: Though not immediately applicable to a holiday meal, seeds and plants that produce food for household consumption are also covered, supporting long-term food sustainability.
Preparing a SNAP-Friendly Thanksgiving Meal
With SNAP benefits covering most Thanksgiving staples, families can plan a holiday meal on a budget. Here are some meal-planning ideas:
- Main Dish: A roasted turkey or ham is a popular Thanksgiving choice. Turkey prices may vary, so shopping early can help get the best value.
- Side Dishes: Fresh or canned vegetables, mashed potatoes, and stuffing are easy-to-make sides that use SNAP-eligible ingredients.
- Desserts: Pumpkin pie or apple pie are classic Thanksgiving desserts and can be made with SNAP-eligible ingredients, including fresh fruits, dairy, and baking essentials.
For SNAP recipients in Texas and Florida, receiving benefits on Thanksgiving means they can use their food stamps to cover holiday meals. By focusing on eligible food items, families can make the most of their SNAP benefits this Thanksgiving.
