Food News

The maximum SNAP Benefits available to families of different sizes are set to increase keeping in mind the rising food insecurity. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service makes annual adjustments to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) maximum allotments, deductions, and income eligibility standards at the start of each federal fiscal year.

These adjustments are based on the cost of living which refers to the amount of money one needs to support a basic standard of living. The Food and Nutrition Service increased maximum allotments and shelter caps for most U.S. States and Territories for fiscal year 2024. The COA allotments came into effect on October 1, 2023. 

The maximum allotments for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients increased in 48 states, Washington D.C., Alaska, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. However, in Hawaii, the amount decreased from $1,794 to $1,759 for a family of four. In the 48 contiguous states, a family of four will see their monthly benefit increase by $34 due to the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA).

SNAP Benefits increase are higher for households in Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and Alaska. The maximum benefits for a family of four in Alaska could be as high as $1937. 

The monthly income eligibility standards also changed for 48 states including Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, Virgin Islands, and D.C. The maximum gross monthly income cap is decided to be at 130% of the federal poverty level. For instance, the maximum gross monthly income cap for household size 1 is $1580 whereas for household size 4, it is $3250. 

A family of four has a monthly payment of $973 which breaks down to roughly $8 per day per person. It was never intended that SNAP would cover all food costs but it was found out that a modestly priced meal cost $3.14 which is 15% more than the maximum SNAP benefit. The report also revealed that SNAP Benefits did not cover the cost of meals in 99% of counties last year.