Starting in October, several states across the U.S. began issuing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to eligible recipients. While some states initiated their payments on October 1, others are scheduled to begin on October 4. Addressing the payment schedule and eligibility criteria is essential for those relying on food assistance. Let’s break down the states starting on October 4 and what you need to know to determine your payment date.
Payments
Some states that will issue SNAP benefits starting October 4 include Alabama, Arkansas, Maryland, Minnesota, and Mississippi. Each state has a unique system for distributing benefits based on various factors like Social Security Number (SSN), case number, or last name. Here’s a quick overview of the process in these states:
Alabama
Alabama’s SNAP payments will be issued from October 4 through October 23. The distribution is based on the last two digits of your SNAP case number. For instance, if your case number ends in 00-04, you’ll receive your benefits on October 4.
Arkansas
In Arkansas, SNAP benefits will be distributed between October 4 and October 13. The payment date depends on the last digit of your SSN. If your SSN ends in 0 or 1, you’ll receive your payment on October 4.
Payments
In Maryland, SNAP benefits will be distributed from October 4 through October 23. The delivery schedule is based on the first three letters of your last name. For example, if your last name starts with letters between AAA and BAO, you’ll receive your payment on October 4.
Minnesota
Minnesota’s payment schedule is based on the last digit of your case number. If your case number ends in 4, your benefits will be available on October 4. Other recipients will have staggered payment dates throughout the month.
Mississippi
Mississippi will distribute SNAP benefits between October 4 and October 21. Like Alabama, payments are based on the last two digits of your case number, with those ending in 00-04 receiving benefits on October 4.
Maximum Benefit Amounts
SNAP benefit amounts are determined by household size and income, with specific limits in place for the 48 contiguous states. The maximum amounts an individual or family can receive have increased after the 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). Here’s what you can expect:
| Household Size | Maximum Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
These figures ensure that eligible households receive adequate food assistance, but the exact amount can vary based on individual circumstances.
Payment Issues
Determining your payment date is relatively straightforward. To check when you’ll receive your SNAP benefits, you can refer to the following steps:
- Locate Your SNAP Case Number: Find the last digits of your SNAP case number (or SSN if applicable).
- Consult Your State’s Schedule: Check your state’s SNAP payment schedule, which correlates payment dates to the last digits of your case number or other identifying criteria.
- Contact Customer Service: If you’re new to SNAP or unsure about your payment date, you’ll receive notification upon approval of your benefits. You can also call your state’s SNAP customer service hotline.
If you don’t receive your benefits on the expected date, there may be issues with your case. Common reasons include missing paperwork, household changes, or missed recertification deadlines. Be sure to contact your local SNAP office to resolve any issues.
SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card each month, which can be used like a debit card for purchasing eligible food items. How much you receive depends on the size of your household and your income.
Receiving SNAP benefits on time is critical for those who rely on this essential service. By staying informed about your state’s schedule and ensuring all paperwork is in order, you can minimize delays and make the most of the assistance available.
FAQs
When will Alabama send SNAP benefits?
Alabama will send benefits from October 4 to October 23.
How does Arkansas distribute SNAP payments?
Arkansas distributes based on the SSN, starting October 4.
What letters determine Maryland’s SNAP payment dates?
Maryland uses the first three letters of your last name.
What is the maximum benefit for one person after the COLA?
The maximum benefit is $292.
When will Mississippi end SNAP payments in October?
Mississippi will distribute benefits until October 21.
