Fueling the fight against food insecurity, the SNAP benefits equips low-income families with the resources they need to thrive. This vital program puts the power of grocery choice in their hands, thanks to the convenient EBT card.
Millions of Americans use food stamps, which have been converted into the SNAP benefits system for years, through the EBT card, to buy nutritious foods that keep the family away from the risk of food insecurity. However, changes introduced by 2024 could leave millions closer to the cliff.
Evolving Criteria in 2024: Changes Recently Approved
As of the end of 2023, a staggering 41.2 million Americans found themselves eligible for SNAP benefits, as reported by USA Today. The calculation of SNAP allotments by the US Department of Agriculture incorporates the dynamic Cost of Living Arrangement (COLA), ensuring a responsive approach to the evolving economic landscape.
In the previous year, there was a notable 12.5% upswing in the SNAP allotment, setting the stage for further adjustments in the upcoming year. The modifications slated for 2024 are poised to shape the eligibility criteria, aiming for a more targeted and impactful assistance approach.
To secure SNAP benefits in 2024, citizens within the age bracket of 51 to 52 must substantiate their eligibility through proof of employment, education, or training. However, a noteworthy shift awaits in October, expanding the age restriction to 54.
Despite these adjustments, specific groups remain exempt from the stringent eligibility criteria. Adults without dependents, veterans, individuals facing destitution, pregnant women, and those grappling with physical or mental disabilities are among the exempt categories. Furthermore, individuals under the age of 24 who were in foster care on their eighteenth birthday also fall under the exemption umbrella.
SNAP Benefits Maximum Allotments in t2024: COLA Increase Applied
The following outlines the highest monthly SNAP allotments based on household size, with these levels being federally determined and subject to annual adjustments every October 1.
Commencing from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024, and including the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), the maximum monthly allotments are detailed as follows:
- Household Size: 1
- Maximum Monthly Allotment: $291
- Household Size: 2
- Maximum Monthly Allotment: $535
- Household Size: 3
- Maximum Monthly Allotment: $766
- Household Size: 4
- Maximum Monthly Allotment: $973
- Household Size: 5
- Maximum Monthly Allotment: $1,155
- Household Size: 6
- Maximum Monthly Allotment: $1,386
- Household Size: 7
- Maximum Monthly Allotment: $1,532
- Household Size: 8
- Maximum Monthly Allotment: $1,751
- Each Additional Member
- Additional Monthly Allotment: $219
- Minimum Allotment: $23
It’s crucial to note that actual SNAP households might receive amounts lower than these maximum monthly allotments. This information underscores the dynamic nature of SNAP provisions, adapting annually to accommodate changing circumstances.