As September begins, many Americans across all 50 states, as well as U.S. territories like Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia, are awaiting their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed the payment schedule for September 2024, and depending on where you live, the timing and amount of your SNAP benefits may vary.
Payment Timing
SNAP benefits are distributed through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which work much like debit cards. However, the exact date when your benefits are loaded onto your EBT card depends on your state or territory’s payment schedule. While some states issue payments on a single day, others spread them out over several days.
SNAP Benefits
A few states and territories are set to issue SNAP benefits to eligible recipients on September 1st. These include:
- Alaska
- North Dakota
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- U.S. Virgin Islands
Recipients in these locations can expect to have their benefits loaded onto their EBT cards on the first day of the month.
Payments
Many states will issue payments over a range of days, starting from September 1st and extending through various dates in the month:
- September 1-3: Connecticut
- September 1-4: Wyoming
- September 1-5: Nebraska, New Jersey
- September 1-9: New York, Oregon, West Virginia
- September 1-10: California, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Nevada, Oklahoma, South Carolina
- September 1-13: Arizona, Arkansas, Minnesota
- September 1-14: Maine, Massachusetts
- September 1-15: Wisconsin
- September 1-19: Kentucky
- September 1-20: New Mexico, Tennessee, Washington
- September 1-22: Missouri
- September 1-23: Alabama, Delaware, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland
- September 1-28: Florida, Texas
In these states, the date you receive your benefits may depend on factors like your Social Security number, last name, or case number.
Payment Schedules
- Montana: September 2-6
- Ohio: September 2-20
- Hawaii: September 3-5
- Michigan, North Carolina: September 3-21
- Arkansas, Minnesota: September 4-13
- Mississippi: September 4-21
- New Hampshire: September 5 only
- Utah: September 5, 11, and 15
- South Dakota: September 10 only
- Pennsylvania: Over the first 10 business days of September
Payments in U.S. Territories
For those living in U.S. territories, here’s when you can expect your benefits:
- Guam: September 1-10
- Puerto Rico: September 4-22
- District of Columbia: September 1-10
- U.S. Virgin Islands: September 1
Maximum SNAP Benefits
The amount of SNAP benefits you receive is based on your household size, income, and other factors. For September 2024, the maximum SNAP benefit amounts for the 48 contiguous states are as follows:
- Individual: Up to $291
- Family of Four: Up to $973
- Family of Eight: Up to $1,751
Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands typically have higher maximum SNAP benefits due to the higher cost of living in these areas. However, recipients in Hawaii will see a reduction in the maximum amounts starting in September 2024.
COLA Adjustments
It’s important to note that while these September payments will follow the current benefit levels, a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) will be implemented on October 1, 2024. This adjustment may increase benefits for many recipients, helping to offset rising costs of essentials.
Stay Informed
Knowing when and how you’ll receive your SNAP benefits can help you plan your budget more effectively. If you’re unsure about your state’s specific payment schedule or if you have questions about your eligibility or benefit amount, visit your state’s official SNAP website or contact your local SNAP office. Being proactive will ensure that you receive your benefits on time and avoid any potential disruptions.
FAQs
When will I receive my SNAP benefits in September?
It depends on your state or territory. Some pay on September 1, while others spread payments across the month.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit I can receive?
For most states, individuals can receive up to $291, and a family of four can receive up to $973.
Do all states issue SNAP benefits on the same day?
No, each state has its own schedule. Some pay on a single day, while others spread payments over several days.
Will the COLA increase SNAP benefits in September?
No, the COLA increase will take effect on October 1, 2024.
How can I check my SNAP payment date?
Visit your state’s SNAP website or contact your local SNAP office for specific information.
