With the start of the new fiscal year 2025 last October 1, 2024, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced an increase in SNAP program allocations thanks to a new cost of living adjustment, known as COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment). This adjustment aims to compensate for the impact of inflation on low-income households that rely on the program to access healthy food.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), overseen by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) of the USDA, is the largest federal food assistance program. Through an EBT card (Electronic Benefits Transfer), it allows millions of people to purchase basic food items at affiliated retailers.
The updated amounts apply in the 48 continental states and Washington D.C., and vary depending on the number of household members. Based on the COLA adjustment, these are the new authorized monthly maximum amounts:
For larger families, $220 are added for each additional member. It is worth noting that the minimum benefit in the 48 states and D.C. will remain at $23 per month.
To be eligible for SNAP, applicants must not exceed 130% of the federal poverty level in gross monthly income. Additionally, the USDA also considers net income, that is, gross income minus the allowed deductions.
One of the most relevant changes for 2025 is the age expansion for the ABAWD group (adults without dependents or disabilities). Previously, work requirements applied only to individuals between 18 and 50 years old, but starting this fiscal year, that range extends to 54 years old. These individuals must demonstrate that they work or participate in a work program at least 80 hours per month, unless they meet exemption criteria.