SNAP Food Stamp Benefits 2025: New Income Limits, Payment Dates & How to Secure the Maximum Payout

Millions of Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps, are bracing for possible benefit interruptions in November as the federal government shutdown enters its fourth week. Why SNAP benefits are at risk The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has warned state agencies that federal funding for SNAP will be exhausted on 1 November 2025 if Congress does not pass a spending bill. More than 42 million people could see their November electronic benefit transfer (EBT) deposits delayed or reduced. Which states will be affected first • At least 25 states have already notified residents that November payments may not be issued on time. • New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Oklahoma have instructed caseworkers to “hold” November files until further notice. • Virginia’s governor declared a state of emergency to tap reserve funds if Congress fails to act. How much money is at stake SNAP distributes roughly $9 billion in food assistance every month. If funding lapses, that entire amount is at risk, leaving grocery stores and small retailers that rely on EBT purchases facing a sudden revenue gap. What SNAP recipients can do now 1. Buy shelf-stable foods before 31 October, while October benefits are still available, such as rice, beans, canned vegetables, pasta, and powdered milk. 2. Check your remaining balance frequently through your state EBT app or customer-service phone line. 3. Contact local food banks; many Feeding America affiliates are preparing “shutdown boxes” with non-perishables. 4. Apply for free or reduced-price school meals if you have children; school nutrition funding is not immediately affected by the shutdown. 5. Save receipts: some states may require proof of October spending if retroactive benefits become available. Scams to avoid USDA has flagged a surge in social-media ads promising “$750 instant EBT cash.” These offers are fake and designed to steal personal information. What happens in Congress next Both chambers must pass either a full-year Agriculture appropriations bill or a short-term continuing resolution before midnight on 31 October to keep SNAP funded. Negotiators remain divided over proposed work-requirement expansions and overall spending caps. A vote is expected in the House as early as 28 October, but Senate leaders have signaled they will not take up the House bill without bipartisan amendments. Resources for real-time updates • USDA SNAP hotline: 1-800-221-5689 • State EBT portal: visit [YourState].gov/EBT • Feeding America food bank locator: FeedingAmerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank Bottom line If the shutdown continues, November SNAP benefits could be delayed or reduced nationwide. Households should plan grocery budgets carefully, watch for official state text or email alerts, and seek local food-aid resources now, while advocates press Congress to avoid a hunger crisis.