The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which many people still call “food stamps,” is one of the biggest help programs in the United States. It gives monthly food benefits to people and families who don’t earn much money. The goal is to make sure everyone can afford basic food and stay healthy.
SNAP is run by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). It is available in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands. While the U.S. government sets the main rules, each state can adjust how they run the program to meet local needs.
Who Can Get SNAP Benefits in 2025?
To get SNAP benefits in 2025, a person or family must meet certain rules that apply across the U.S. and its territories.
Key Requirements:
- Household Income: Income must be below 130% of the federal poverty level.
- Family Size: Bigger families can get more benefits.
- Expenses: Things like rent, utility bills, and medical costs (especially for seniors or people with disabilities) are considered.
Each state has its own process to apply. Usually, it includes filling out a form, showing ID, proof of income, and bills for fixed monthly expenses. There’s also an interview, which can be in person, online, or over the phone.
SNAP Benefit Increase in 2025
Each year, SNAP amounts are updated based on the cost of living in the U.S. In 2025, benefits increased by 2.5% to help families cope with rising food prices. This change started from October 1, 2024, and continues in 2025.
New Maximum Monthly SNAP Amounts (for 48 states and D.C.):
- 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
For each extra person in the household, about $220 is added.
In places like Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the SNAP amounts are higher because the cost of living is more.
When Will SNAP Benefits Be Paid in May 2025?
If you’re waiting for your SNAP payment between May 17 and May 25, here’s when some states are giving out benefits:
- Alabama: May 17–23
- Georgia: May 17–23
- Indiana: May 17–23
- Maryland: May 17–23
- Mississippi: May 17–21
- Missouri: May 17–22
- Texas: May 17–28
- Florida: May 17–28
- Michigan: May 17–21
- Ohio: May 17–20
- North Carolina: May 17–21
- South Carolina: May 17–19
- Tennessee: May 17–20
If your state is not on this list, check your state’s SNAP website or call your local SNAP office for details.
Changes in SNAP Rules in 2025
In 2025, there were some big updates to the SNAP rules:
- Age Limit: Now, adults without children must work if they are under 54 years old (earlier, it was 49).
- New Exemptions: Veterans, homeless people, and pregnant women are now excused from these work rules.
These changes aim to make the system more fair and helpful to people who really need support.