Starting October 1, 2024, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are set to increase to help low-income households cope with rising grocery prices. Although these increases are modest, they come at a time when inflation continues to push food costs higher.
New Maximum SNAP Benefits
For households in the 48 contiguous states and Washington D.C., the new maximum monthly benefits are as follows:
- 1-person household: $292
- 2-person household: $536
- 3-person household: $768
- 4-person household: $975
- 5-person household: $1,158
- 6-person household: $1,390
- 7-person household: $1,536
- 8-person household: $1,756
For each additional person, an extra $220 is added to the monthly allotment. Last year’s increases were slightly higher due to more severe inflation, but this year’s adjustments still offer some relief as food prices continue to rise.
Changes to Eligibility Requirements
In addition to benefit increases, the Fiscal Responsibility Act introduces new work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) aged 53 and 54. These individuals must now work or be in training for at least 80 hours per month to qualify for more than three months of benefits in a three-year period. ABAWDs aged 18 to 52 have already been subject to similar conditions.
There are, however, exemptions. Homeless individuals, veterans, and former foster youth aged 18 to 24 are exempt from these work requirements. People unable to work due to physical or mental limitations, pregnant women, and households with children under 18 are also exempt from the new rules.
For a deeper understanding of SNAP benefit changes, you can read more about how the Fiscal Responsibility Act impacts SNAP.
Read More News:
- Texas SNAP Payments Up to $1,751: Final September Distribution and October Increases
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These updates aim to strike a balance between providing necessary food assistance and ensuring those who can work are contributing to the economy.