The USDA has outlined the remaining SNAP payment dates for November 2024, along with the distribution schedule for December.
While payments for November are nearly complete in the 48 contiguous states, food stamps for December will begin promptly on the first day of the month.
Maximum SNAP Benefits by Region
For eligible households, the maximum SNAP benefits differ based on location:
- In the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia, a family of eight may receive up to $1,756 due to the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA).
- Higher benefit limits are available in regions like Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. For instance, in Alaska, eligible families of eight may receive up to $3,516 in December.
SNAP Payments Remaining in November
As of now, only 17 states and Puerto Rico are still issuing SNAP benefits for November. Payments in Puerto Rico are scheduled to conclude by November 22.
States with November SNAP Payment Dates
| State | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | November 4–23 |
| Delaware | November 2–23 |
| Florida | November 1–28 |
| Georgia | November 5–23 |
| Indiana | November 5–23 |
| Kentucky | November 1–19 |
| Louisiana | November 1–23 |
| Maryland | November 4–23 |
| Michigan | November 3–21 |
| Mississippi | November 4–21 |
| Missouri | November 1–22 |
| New Mexico | November 1–20 |
| North Carolina | November 3–21 |
| Ohio | November 2–20 |
| Tennessee | November 1–20 |
| Texas | November 1–28 |
| Washington | November 1–20 |
| Puerto Rico | November 4–22 |
SNAP Payment Schedule for December
The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has confirmed that SNAP payments for December will include the 2025 COLA adjustments, effective since October 1, 2024. In some states, payments will be issued on a single day, such as December 1 in Alaska and Vermont.
State-by-State December Payment Dates
| State/Region | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | December 4–23 |
| Alaska | December 1 |
| Arizona | December 1–13 |
| Arkansas | December 4–13 |
| California | December 1–10 |
| Colorado | December 1–10 |
| Delaware | December 2–23 |
| Florida | December 1–28 |
| Hawaii | December 3–5 |
| Illinois | December 1–10 |
| Maryland | December 4–23 |
| Michigan | December 3–21 |
| New York | December 1–9 |
| Texas | December 1–28 |
| Vermont | December 1 |
| Washington | December 1–20 |
| Puerto Rico | December 4–22 |
| Guam | December 1–10 |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | December 1 |
Eligibility Requirements for Maximum SNAP Benefits
Income Limits
- Gross Monthly Income: Must not exceed 130% of the Federal Poverty Line (FPL). For a family of four, this equates to $3,380 per month (valid through Oct. 2024–Sept. 2025).
- Net Monthly Income: After deductions, income must fall below 100% of the FPL (approximately $2,600/month for a family of four).
- Households with members aged 60+ or disabled are required to meet only the net income limit.
Resource Limits
- Households may hold up to $3,000 in countable resources (e.g., bank accounts), increased to $4,500 for households with elderly or disabled members.
- Categorically eligible households are exempt from resource limits.
Work Requirements
- Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18–52 must work or participate in a work program for 20 hours per week to receive SNAP for over three months in a 36-month period.
- Exemptions: Children, seniors, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities are exempt from work requirements.
FAQs
How do SNAP benefits differ by state?
Each state sets its payment schedule and maximum benefit amounts based on local living costs and eligibility criteria.
What is the COLA adjustment for SNAP benefits?
The Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) reflects inflation and ensures benefits align with current living expenses. For SNAP, the COLA is applied annually.
Are all households required to meet the resource limit?
No, most households are categorically eligible and are not subject to resource limits.
