EBT Benefits SNAP 2025

What to do to avoid losing your SNAP benefits: Recertification December 2025

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides essential food assistance to more than 40 million people across the United States. However, because the program is administered at the state level, rules and timelines can vary, creating confusion for many recipients. To ensure benefits are not interrupted, it is crucial to complete the recertification process on time, which confirms that the household still meets eligibility requirements.

What Is SNAP Recertification?

Recertification is a mandatory process that takes place at the end of a household’s certification period. Its purpose is to verify that the recipient still qualifies for benefits by reviewing:

• Income and financial resources that determine eligibility.
• Household composition and any recent changes.
• Updated program guidelines such as adjustments tied to the Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA).

Recertification is required for three main reasons:

• Federal requirement: States are not allowed to issue benefits beyond the active certification period without completing this process.
• Eligibility changes: Income or household updates may affect the benefit amount.
• Program updates: SNAP rules may be modified and need to be reverified.

When Do You Need to Recertify?

A SNAP certification period can last anywhere from one month to three years, depending on the state. About one month before the period ends, recipients receive an official Expiration Notice from their state agency.

This notice may include:

• The recertification form.
• An appointment letter for the interview.
• A list of required verification documents.

How to Complete SNAP Recertification

To keep your benefits active, you must complete the following steps:

1. Complete and submit the form

• Update all required personal information, especially changes in income, expenses, or household members.
• The form must be submitted before the 15th day of the final month of your certification period.
• You may submit it online, by mail, or in person, depending on your state’s rules.

2. Complete the recertification interview

Your local SNAP office must schedule an interview at least 11 days before your expiration date. The purpose is to confirm the information included in your form.

If you do not receive an appointment letter, a caseworker will call you to conduct the interview.

Don’t Risk Losing Your Food Benefits

If recertification is not completed on time, your benefits may be suspended or terminated, forcing you to start a new application from the beginning.

Submitting the form and completing the interview promptly ensures that your food assistance continues without interruption.