The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly benefits to millions of Americans to help them afford nutritious food. The exact date recipients receive their funds depends on their state, case number, Social Security number, or last name.
Many states distribute benefits within the first week of the month, while others follow staggered schedules.
Let’s take a look at how different states distribute SNAP payments and what recipients need to know.
SNAP
SNAP helps over 40 million Americans access essential groceries every month. This program ensures that low-income households, including families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, can buy healthy foods. To qualify, applicants must meet specific income requirements based on household size.
Payment Schedules
Payments are based on the last two digits of the case number:
| Case Number Ends In | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 00-04 | 4th |
| 05-09 | 5th |
| 10-14 | 6th |
| 15-19 | 7th |
Arizona
Payments are distributed based on the first letter of the recipient’s last name:
| Last Name Starts With | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| A or B | 1st |
| C or D | 2nd |
| E or F | 3rd |
| G or H | 4th |
| I or J | 5th |
Arkansas
SNAP benefits in Arkansas are issued based on the recipient’s Social Security number:
| SSN Ends In | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 0 or 1 | 4th |
| 2 or 3 | 5th |
California
California follows a schedule based on case numbers:
| Case Number Ends In | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1 | 1st |
| 2 | 2nd |
| 3 | 3rd |
| 4 | 4th |
| 5 | 5th |
Florida
Florida issues SNAP benefits based on the 9th and 8th digits of the case number:
| 9th & 8th Digits | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 00-03 | 1st |
| 04-06 | 2nd |
| 07-10 | 3rd |
| 11-13 | 4th |
| 14-17 | 5th |
Universal Payment Dates
Some states send out all SNAP benefits on a fixed date each month:
- Alaska, North Dakota, Rhode Island, and Vermont: Payments issued on the 1st of the month.
- New Hampshire: Benefits distributed on the 5th.
- South Dakota: Benefits available on the 10th.
Amounts
The maximum SNAP benefit increased slightly in 2024. The new amounts are:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $292 |
| 2 People | $535 |
| 3 People | $766 |
| 4 People | $975 |
What’s Next?
For those who haven’t received their benefits yet, states that distribute payments later in the month will soon follow their schedules. Recipients should check their EBT accounts or contact their state’s SNAP office if they experience delays.
FAQs
How do I check my SNAP balance?
You can check your balance on your state’s EBT website or by calling the number on your card.
Can I use SNAP for online grocery shopping?
Yes, many retailers, including Amazon and Walmart, accept SNAP for online purchases.
What happens if my benefits are late?
Contact your state’s SNAP office to check for delays or issues with your case.
Can I use SNAP for hot meals?
Generally, no. However, some states have programs that allow certain recipients to buy prepared meals.
Do SNAP benefits roll over?
Yes, any unused benefits roll over to the next month but must be used within a year.
