Memorial Day isn’t the only big news this May—major changes to SNAP food benefits could impact millions of low-income families. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps over 41 million people in 21.6 million U.S. households access nutritious food. But a new law could mean 3.2 million people may permanently lose their benefits if they don’t meet new work requirements.
What Is SNAP and Who Gets It?
SNAP is the largest federal food support program, helping prevent hunger and malnutrition. It’s managed by the USDA, but each state distributes the benefits. The amount a family receives depends on their income, household size, and location.
What’s Changing in 2025?
A new bill called the “Big Beautiful Act” was passed by the House of Representatives. It aims to save $92 billion over the next 10 years. But to do that, it proposes tougher rules for people who receive SNAP:
Key changes include:
- Raising the work age limit from 54 to 64 years old.
- Lowering the child care exemption age from 18 to 7 years old.
- Requiring able-bodied adults (ABAWDs) to work or train for 80 hours per month to keep receiving food aid.
Who Could Lose SNAP?
According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), these changes could remove 3.2 million people from the program:
- 1 million adults aged 55 to 64 who don’t have disabilities.
- 800,000 caregivers of children over the age of 7.
- 1.4 million people currently exempt but no longer under the new rules.
Many of these people cannot meet the work requirements due to age, caregiving responsibilities, or health limitations.
Who Is Still Exempt?
Some people won’t be affected by the changes. These include:
- People with disabilities
- Pregnant women
- Veterans
- Homeless individuals
- Young adults under 24 who were in foster care
These groups are already exempt from the 80-hour work rule.
How Much SNAP Pays in 2025
SNAP payments vary based on household size. The current maximum amounts for 2025 are:
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,158
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
- Each additional person: $220
These amounts are valid until September 30, 2025. A new rate adjustment will begin in October 2025 for the next fiscal year.
Immigration and SNAP Access
The bill also removes eligibility for people who don’t have U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status. This includes 120,000 to 250,000 individuals with:
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
- Pending asylum applications
- Other temporary immigration status
Arguments For and Against the Bill
Supporters of the new law say it promotes self-sufficiency and reduces government spending. But critics, including groups like Feeding America, argue it could increase hunger, especially among older adults and families with school-age children.