If you rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), there are important changes coming your way this October. These updates could affect your food stamp benefits and eligibility, so it’s essential to stay informed. From cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) to changes in the age definition for able-bodied adults without dependents, here’s everything you need to know.
A slight boost in benefits and some eligibility changes are on the horizon. Let’s break them down.
COLA
One of the biggest updates to SNAP this October is the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). COLA is a yearly recalibration designed to ensure that benefits keep up with inflation, particularly food prices. Due to this adjustment, most SNAP recipients will notice a small increase in their monthly benefits.
How much more will you receive? For most households, the increase will amount to just a few extra dollars each month. However, it’s better than nothing, and every bit helps.
In certain U.S. territories like Alaska, Guam, and the Virgin Islands, recipients will receive more significant adjustments due to their higher food costs. However, if you live in Hawaii, your benefits will slightly decrease, even after the COLA. But keep in mind, payments in Hawaii are still generally higher than those in the contiguous 48 states.
Able-Bodied Adults
Another key change is the adjustment of the age limit for “able-bodied adults without dependents” (ABAWD). Previously, the age cutoff was 52 years, but as of this October, that limit has increased to 54. This change stems from the Fiscal Responsibility Act, a legislative move that not only extended the debt ceiling until 2025 but also led to some important policy changes regarding SNAP.
So, what does this mean for you if you fall into the ABAWD category?
If you’re considered an able-bodied adult without dependents and between 18 and 54 years old, you’ll need to meet specific criteria to keep receiving your SNAP benefits. These include working at least 80 hours per month or participating in an education or training program. The idea is to encourage workforce participation among those who are physically able to work but are not currently employed or enrolled in a program.
Change
This new age limit isn’t just a random shift. It reflects a broader government initiative aimed at encouraging able-bodied individuals to engage more with the workforce. By expanding the age criteria, SNAP is ensuring that more adults are required to meet the work requirements to continue receiving benefits. This adjustment will remain in place until 2030, so it’s crucial to know what it entails if it applies to you.
SNAP
While most recipients will receive a small COLA increase, things are a bit different in some high-cost regions. Alaska, the Virgin Islands, and Guam will see more significant adjustments due to the elevated food prices in these areas. In these places, food costs tend to be much higher than the national average, so SNAP aims to ensure that recipients there are adequately supported.
Interestingly, Hawaii will see a slight reduction in benefits following COLA. While this might sound alarming, remember that benefits in Hawaii have always been higher due to its cost of living. Even with the decrease, Hawaii recipients still get more in food stamps compared to those in most other states.
| Region | Benefit Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Alaska | Significant increase |
| Virgin Islands | Significant increase |
| Guam | Significant increase |
| Hawaii | Slight reduction |
| Contiguous 48 | Small increase |
What’s Next
These changes are designed to keep the program fair and sustainable while adjusting for inflation and other economic factors. If you rely on SNAP, the main takeaway is to be aware of these shifts, particularly if you’re nearing the new age limit for ABAWD or if you live in a high-cost area.
With the COLA adjustments, you’ll get a little extra help each month, though how much varies based on where you live. If you’re in the ABAWD category and still need to meet the new requirements, this is a good time to start thinking about how you can fulfill the work or training criteria.
These changes are expected to be in place for the next several years, with the ABAWD adjustment lasting until 2030, so it’s worth planning ahead.
The small boost in benefits, paired with updated eligibility rules, reflects SNAP’s ongoing effort to strike a balance between providing help to those in need while encouraging able-bodied adults to remain engaged in the workforce or educational opportunities.
FAQs
How much will SNAP benefits increase with COLA?
Most households will see a small increase of a few dollars per month.
Who qualifies as an able-bodied adult without dependents?
Those between 18-54 without children and physically able to work.
What are the ABAWD work requirements?
You need to work 80 hours a month or enroll in a training program.
Why will Alaska and other territories get higher benefits?
Due to significantly higher food costs in those regions.
Will Hawaii SNAP users see a reduction in benefits?
Yes, Hawaii recipients will see a slight decrease, but overall benefits remain higher.