The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps millions of low-income families across the United States buy food every month. But to keep receiving these benefits, people must go through a process called recertification.
Recertification is not something to be afraid of — it’s simply a way for the government to check that your income and family situation still meet the eligibility rules. For many households, especially those with certification periods ending in May 2025, it’s time to pay attention to avoid losing benefits.
Why SNAP Benefits Need Recertification
SNAP is managed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and each state follows federal rules. These rules say that benefits cannot continue beyond the approved period unless the household confirms they are still eligible.
Here are the main reasons for recertification:
- Federal law requires it: All beneficiaries must prove they still qualify before the deadline.
- Your situation might change: If your income increases, you get a new job, or someone moves in or out of your house, your eligibility may be affected.
- Guidelines can change: Sometimes SNAP rules are updated, such as with annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) or new policies. Recertification helps apply the latest rules to your case.
How Often Do You Need to Recertify?
The timing depends on your state and personal situation. Generally, recertification is required every:
- 6 months, 1 year, or up to 3 years.
Your approval letter or case notice will clearly mention your certification period. About one month before it expires, you’ll get a notice reminding you to recertify. If you ignore this or submit it late, your benefits may stop.
The SNAP Recertification Process
Recertifying is not complicated, but it must be done correctly and on time. Here’s how the process usually works:
1. Complete the recertification form: You’ll need to fill out a form and sign it. In most states, you can do this online, by mail, or in person.
2. Attend an interview: Usually, an interview is part of the process. It can be by phone or in person. However, in some cases — especially if your household includes a senior citizen (60+) — this interview may be waived if all documents are submitted properly. This applies in 23 states (as of June 2024).
3. Provide supporting documents: You may be asked to submit proof of income (like pay stubs), rent receipts, or utility bills to show your financial status.
The interview must be scheduled at least 11 days before your current benefits expire. If everything is submitted on time, a decision is usually made within two weeks, ensuring there’s no break in your payments.
How Much Does SNAP Pay Each Month?
SNAP benefits depend on the number of people in your household. Here’s a breakdown of the monthly maximum and average benefits in the 48 continental states:
1 person
Max: $292 | Average: $199
2 people
Max: $536 | Average: $364
3 people
Max: $768 | Average: $594
4 people
Max: $975 | Average: $726
5 people
Max: $1,158 | Average: $845
6 people
Max: $1,390 | Average: $1,018
7 people
Max: $1,536 | Average: $1,116
8 people
Max: $1,756 | Average: $1,317
Each extra person: Add $220 to the monthly maximum.
Note: If you live in Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, or the US Virgin Islands, the benefit amounts are higher, due to a higher cost of living in these areas.