As 2024 unfolds, many SNAP benefits recipients are understandably curious about any potential extra food stamps to address the ongoing challenge of affording nutritious meals. This is because there have been programs in the past that delivered extra cash to those families in need.
While there are currently no nationwide programs offering additional food stamps beyond the established food stamps, various state-specific programs may offer supplemental assistance. We recommend checking the resources listed below under the “State-Specific Programs” section.
Summer EBT Program to Deliver Extra Food Stamps Cash
A positive development for families with eligible children is the upcoming launch of the Summer EBT program in Summer 2024. This program will provide an additional $40 per eligible child, per month, during the summer months. This translates to a potential increase of up to $120 in food assistance per eligible child over the summer. The initiative is expected to be available in 35 states, 4 tribal nations, and all 5 U.S. territories.
While SNAP operates nationwide, additional resources and benefits may vary based on your state. This guide dives into state-specific options to help you maximize your food assistance.
State-Specific Programs in Alabama, Arizona, and California:
While no additional EBT programs are available this month, Alabama offers the Double Up Food Bucks program year-round at participating markets. This program allows you to receive up to $20 extra in food per day when you use your EBT card at these locations.
This summer, Arizona will join the Summer EBT program, providing families with additional food assistance during the summer months. Additionally, Arizona offers the Double Up Food Bucks program year-round at participating retailers, allowing you to stretch your benefits when purchasing eligible products.
California offers the Fruit & Vegetable EBT Pilot Project, granting eligible individuals up to $60 in extra food stamps per month for purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at participating retailers. This program uniquely reimburses your EBT card immediately, allowing you to use the additional funds right away.
The California example highlights that even if you receive a smaller amount of regular benefits, you can still participate in programs like the Fruit & Vegetable EBT Pilot Project. In this instance, a recipient receiving $23 in food stamps could use it on eligible products, have the full amount reimbursed, and then use those funds again on other eligible items.
More States Delivering Summer SNAP Benefits
Hawaii is set to bring additional food stamp benefits to certain residents in response to the current SNAP benefits calculation method, which primarily considers data from Honolulu. Recognizing that this approach doesn’t fully account for the varying cost of living in different parts of the state, the USDA plans to make adjustments. Seeking public input until March 5th, the USDA will use this feedback to formulate new rules for a more accurate calculation of SNAP benefits tailored to Hawaii’s diverse living costs. Additionally, Hawaii residents can access extra food through the DA BUX program, offering exclusive discounts at select retailers.
In Maine, relief is on the way for those affected by severe storms in December, as tens of thousands of people across 14 counties named in the State of Civil Emergency Declaration are slated to receive extra EBT benefits. Residents of Cumberland or York Counties who experienced power outages lasting more than four hours may also qualify for additional assistance.
Notably, households that proactively applied for and received replacement benefits from the initial round are exempt from eligibility for this supplementary assistance. The Farm Fresh Rewards program, available year-round, provides ongoing support for obtaining extra food with food stamps at participating retailers.
New York lawmakers are considering a proposal to raise the minimum SNAP benefit to $100 per month, a significant increase from the current minimum. Residents supportive of this initiative are encouraged to reach out to their state lawmakers to express their backing for the proposed adjustment.
In Rhode Island, a new reimbursement initiative has been introduced, allowing residents to receive up to $25 when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at Walmart or Stop & Shop stores. This represents an opportunity for Rhode Island residents to gain an additional $25 in food stamps by choosing certain items during their shopping.