SNAP Benefits to Increase in October, Eligibility Requirements Will Slightly Change

By Matis Glenn

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients will see an increase in benefits starting October 1, while the eligibility requirements will shift slightly, reports The Hill.

According to a report in Forbes Advisor, SNAP benefits will increase by 12.5% for 12.

The changes are in monthly income eligibility, and requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD’s) who previously qualified for full benefits without having to show that they were working or in school if they were 49 years old or above. In September, that age threshold increased to 50, and starting October 1, the minimum age will be 52. ABAWD’s who do not provide proof of employment, training, or education, will only receive three months of benefits per year.

To qualify under employment status, applicants must work at least 80 hours a month.

The changes to the government program, formerly known as Food Stamps, is part of the federal Fiscal Responsibility Act, signed by President Joe Biden in June.

The age requirement will increase once again to 54 in October of next year.

A USDA spokesperson told Nexstar that there are some exceptions to the work requirement. Veterans, homeless people, and young people between the ages 18 to 24 who are not eligible for foster care are all exempt, as are expectant mothers, parents of a child 18 years old or younger living with them, and those who cannot work due to a physical or mental condition.

The new maximum benefits are listed below, in data released by the USDA:

By household size:

 1 – $291

2 – $535

3 – $766

4 – $973

5 – $1,155

6 – $1,386

7 – $1,532

8 – $1,751

Below is a list of updated monthly income limitations by the number of people in a household, according to the USDA:

1 – $1,580

2 – $2,137

3 – $2,694

4 – $3,250

5 – $3,807

6 – $4,364

7 – $4,921

8  – $5,478