As the economic challenges continue to affect many households, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits are offering much-needed relief to millions of Americans. SNAP, which was established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), provides electronic funds via EBT cards to help eligible families purchase basic food items and fight hunger.
Who Can Access SNAP Benefits?
SNAP eligibility is determined based on two main factors:
Financial Resources: Households must have low or very low income, generally below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level. Certain assets like savings may be considered, though essential assets like a primary residence or a work vehicle are excluded.
Residency and Citizenship Requirements: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legally resident aliens and must reside in the state where they are applying for assistance.
While every state follows federal guidelines for SNAP, each state administers its program. For example, Puerto Rico, Guam, and American Samoa run their own specialized nutrition programs. Still, the core goal remains the same: to provide food assistance to those in need.
The Aid Cap: Up to $1,756 for Large Families in 2025
The amount of SNAP assistance a household can receive depends on its size and income level. The federal maximum monthly benefit for a household of eight (8) people in the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C. is set at $1,756 in 2025. This represents the highest allowable benefit to cover food needs under the program.
Here’s a breakdown of the maximum SNAP benefits for the 48 contiguous states and D.C. (the benefit amounts are higher in Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories like Guam due to regional cost differences):
1 person: $291
2 people: $535
3 people: $766
4 people: $973
5 people: $1,155
6 people: $1,386
7 people: $1,532
8 people: $1,756 (Maximum base)
For households larger than 8, add $219 for each additional person.
Where Will SNAP Support Arrive Next Week? (July 14 to 19, 2025)
SNAP payments are not issued on a single, nationwide date. Instead, each state has its own distribution schedule. In July 2025, at least 28 jurisdictions plan to distribute some or all of their SNAP payments between July 12 and July 19. Here are the key distribution dates for various states:
Alabama: July 4-23
Arizona: July 1-13
Arkansas: July 4-13
Delaware: July 2-23
Florida: July 1-28
Georgia: July 5-23
Illinois: July 1-20
Indiana: July 5-23
Kentucky: July 1-19
Louisiana: July 1-23
Maine: July 10-14
Maryland: July 4-23
Massachusetts: July 1-14
Michigan: July 3-21
Minnesota: July 4-13
Mississippi: July 4-21
Missouri: July 1-22
New Mexico: July 1-20
North Carolina: July 3-21
Ohio: July 2-20
Pennsylvania: July 3-14
Puerto Rico (PAN program): July 4-22
South Carolina: July 1-19
Tennessee: July 1-20
Texas: July 1-28
Utah: July 5, 11, 15
Washington: July 1-20
Wisconsin: July 1-15
If your SNAP benefits have not arrived when expected, there’s no need to worry—help is just a call away! You can reach out to your local SNAP office or call the toll-free SNAP helpline at 1-800-221-5689 (USDA National Hunger Hotline).
