In October 2024, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will see a modest boost due to the annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). This increase ensures that SNAP benefits adjust to inflation, giving recipients extra support to cover rising food costs.
Though the COLA increase may not be substantial, it still brings much-needed relief to millions of families relying on SNAP. Here’s what you need to know about the new SNAP benefits, the states affected, and the updated payment schedule.
Understanding the SNAP Food Stamp COLA Increase
Every year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) adjusts SNAP benefits based on the inflation rate through a COLA. This adjustment aims to help recipients maintain their purchasing power as the cost of living increases.
For the fiscal year starting October 1, 2024, recipients will notice a small increase in their benefits. While the exact amount varies based on household size and income, families of four, for example, will see a maximum monthly allotment rise to $973, up from $939.
October 2024 SNAP Payment Schedule
Unlike Social Security benefits, which are paid based on birthdates or retirement dates, SNAP benefits follow state-specific schedules.
Depending on where you live, your benefits could arrive at any point throughout the month. Below is a comprehensive table showing the payment dates for each state in October 2024:
| State | Payment Schedule (October 2024) |
|---|---|
| Alabama | October 4–23 |
| Alaska | October 1 |
| Arizona | October 1–13 |
| Arkansas | October 4–13 |
| California | October 1–10 |
| Colorado | October 1–10 |
| Connecticut | October 1–3 |
| Delaware | October 2–23 |
| District of Columbia | October 1–10 |
| Florida | October 1–28 |
| Georgia | October 5–23 |
| Guam | October 1–10 |
| Hawaii | October 3–5 |
| Idaho | October 1–10 |
| Illinois | October 1–10 |
| Indiana | October 5–23 |
| Iowa | October 1–10 |
| Kansas | October 1–10 |
| Kentucky | October 1–19 |
| Louisiana | October 1–23 |
| Maine | October 10–14 |
| Maryland | October 4–23 |
| Massachusetts | October 1–14 |
| Michigan | October 3–21 |
| Minnesota | October 4–13 |
| Mississippi | October 4–21 |
| Missouri | October 1–22 |
| Montana | October 2–6 |
| Nebraska | October 1–5 |
| Nevada | October 1–10 |
| New Hampshire | October 5 |
| New Jersey | October 1–5 |
| New Mexico | October 1–20 |
| New York | October 1–9 |
| North Carolina | October 3–21 |
| North Dakota | October 1 |
| Ohio | October 2–20 |
| Oklahoma | October 1–10 |
| Oregon | October 1–9 |
| Pennsylvania | October 3–14 |
| Puerto Rico | October 4–22 |
| Rhode Island | October 1 |
| South Carolina | October 1–10 |
| South Dakota | October 10 |
| Tennessee | October 1–20 |
| Texas | October 1–28 |
| Utah | October 5, 11, 15 |
| Virgin Islands | October 1 |
| Vermont | October 1 |
| Virginia | October 1–7 |
| Washington | October 1–20 |
| West Virginia | October 1–9 |
| Wisconsin | October 1–15 |
| Wyoming | October 1–4 |
How to Check Your SNAP Benefits
To verify if your SNAP payment has been processed, simply check the status of your EBT card. The funds are loaded directly onto your card each month, which you can use at participating grocery stores and farmers’ markets. Ensure you are aware of your state’s specific payment schedule to avoid any confusion.
What States Are Benefiting the Most?
While every state is adjusting its payments to reflect the COLA increase, some states may see more noticeable changes depending on regional food costs and other factors.
Alaska and Hawaii, for example, tend to have higher maximum benefit allotments due to the higher cost of living in those states.
Conclusion
October 2024 brings a slight but valuable increase in SNAP benefits due to the annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). While the increase may not cover all rising expenses, it will provide some additional relief to families across the U.S.
Make sure to check your state’s specific payment schedule and keep an eye on your EBT card balance to stay informed about when your benefits will arrive.
FAQs
1. How much is the COLA increase for SNAP in October 2024?
The COLA for SNAP in October 2024 will result in a 3.6% increase in benefits. For a family of four in the contiguous U.S., the maximum allotment will rise to $973 from $939.
2. Does everyone receive the maximum benefit?
No, the actual amount a household receives depends on factors such as income, allowable deductions, and household size. Not all households will qualify for the maximum benefit
3. When will I receive my SNAP benefits in October 2024?
The SNAP payment schedule varies by state. Refer to the table above to see when your state distributes SNAP benefits.
4. How do I check my SNAP benefit balance?
You can check your SNAP balance by reviewing your EBT card’s balance either through an online portal or by calling your state’s EBT customer service number.
5. Are there other changes to SNAP eligibility or benefits?
In addition to the COLA increase, some states are also adjusting income eligibility thresholds to reflect rising living costs, so check with your local SNAP office for any updates.
References
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service. “Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) Information for SNAP.” USDA Website
- Project Bread. “Annual SNAP Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Goes into Effect October 1, 2024.” Project Bread SNAP Updates
