Every month, millions of families across the United States receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments. These payments help families buy nutritious food and improve their well-being. Most families and individuals who meet the program’s income standards can apply for SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program.
To be eligible for SNAP payments, residents should meet the program guidelines and requirements regarding income and resources. Residents can apply for these monthly benefits by visiting their local human services office or state human services agency for eligibility and updates.
Payment Dates
Despite the regularity of SNAP payments, certain states will not distribute benefits on designated days in August. To ensure timely receipt of benefits, it’s essential to check the specific payment dates for your state. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), some states will send out SNAP benefits in the first week of August, while others may wait until the middle of the month.
Schedule
Here is the confirmed schedule for SNAP payments by state for August:
| State | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | August 4-23 |
| Alaska | August 1 |
| Arizona | August 1-13 |
| Arkansas | August 4-13 |
| California | August 1-10 |
| Colorado | August 1-10 |
| Connecticut | August 1-3 |
| Delaware | August 2-23 |
| Florida | August 1-28 |
| Georgia | August 5-23 |
| Hawaii | August 3-5 |
| Idaho | August 1-10 |
| Illinois | August 1-10 |
| Indiana | August 5-23 |
| Iowa | August 1-10 |
| Kansas | August 1-10 |
| Kentucky | August 1-19 |
| Louisiana | August 1-23 |
| Maryland | August 4-23 |
| Massachusetts | August 1-14 |
| Michigan | August 3-21 |
| Minnesota | August 4-13 |
| Mississippi | August 4-21 |
| Missouri | August 1-22 |
| Montana | August 2-6 |
| Nebraska | August 1-5 |
| Nevada | August 1-10 |
| New Hampshire | August 5 |
| New Jersey | August 1-5 |
| New Mexico | August 1-20 |
| New York | August 1-9 |
| North Carolina | August 3-21 |
| North Dakota | August 1 |
| Ohio | August 2-20 |
| Oklahoma | August 1-10 |
| Oregon | August 1-9 |
| Pennsylvania | August 3-14 |
| Rhode Island | August 1 |
| South Carolina | August 1-10 |
| Tennessee | August 1-20 |
| Texas | August 1-28 |
| Utah | August 5, 11, 15 |
| Vermont | August 1 |
| Virginia | August 1-7 |
| Washington | August 1-20 |
| West Virginia | August 1-9 |
| Wisconsin | August 1-15 |
| Wyoming | August 1-4 |
Calculation
The amount of SNAP payments transferred to your Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card depends on the size of your household. Here is how the USDA currently defines the maximum SNAP benefits for different household sizes:
| Household Size | Maximum SNAP Benefits |
|---|---|
| 1 | $291 |
| 2 | $535 |
| 3 | $766 |
| 4 | $973 |
| 5 | $1,155 |
| 6 | $1,386 |
| 7 | $1,532 |
| 8 | $1,751 |
| Additional | $219 per person |
SNAP Benefits
Since 2014, Public Law 113-79 has mandated a pilot program to evaluate the use of SNAP benefits for online purchases. This initiative began in April 2019 and is available in 50 states and the District of Columbia, serving more than 200 food retailers and 4 million customers each month. The program allows recipients to use SNAP benefits to shop online, providing access to a wider variety of products at lower prices.
Eligible Purchases
SNAP payments can be used to buy food but not other charges. Eligible food categories include:
- Bread and cereals
- Fruits and vegetables
- Dairy products
- Snacks
- Nonalcoholic beverages
Ineligible categories include:
- Beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins and medicines
- Live animals
- Pet food
- Cleaning and hygiene products
Knowing the specifics of SNAP payments, including eligibility, payment dates, and usage, is crucial for beneficiaries. Staying informed ensures timely receipt of benefits and optimal use of available resources, contributing to the well-being of millions of families.
FAQs
When will SNAP payments be distributed in August?
Payment dates vary by state; check the provided schedule.
How is the amount of SNAP payments determined?
Payments are based on household size.
Can SNAP benefits be used for online shopping?
Yes, in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
What foods can be purchased with SNAP benefits?
Eligible items include bread, cereals, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, snacks, and nonalcoholic beverages.
Are there any items that SNAP benefits cannot cover?
Yes, SNAP benefits cannot be used for alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medicines, live animals, pet food, or cleaning products.