Millions of Americans are receiving a much-needed financial boost this week, with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) distributing payments of up to $1,756 across 13 U.S. states. The payments, adjusted under the latest Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) for fiscal year 2025, aim to help low-income households afford groceries as inflation continues to affect basic living costs.
Which States Are Sending SNAP Benefits This Week?
According to the updated payment schedule, residents in the following 13 states will receive their SNAP benefits between May 17 and May 25, 2025:
- Alabama: May 17–23
- Georgia: May 17–23
- Indiana: May 17–23
- Maryland: May 17–23
- Mississippi: May 17–21
- Missouri: May 17–22
- Texas: May 17–28
- Florida: May 17–28
- Michigan: May 17–21
- Ohio: May 17–20
- North Carolina: May 17–21
- South Carolina: May 17–19
- Tennessee: May 17–20
Each state operates on its own schedule based on factors like case number, date of application, or the first letter of the recipient’s last name. For the most accurate information, recipients should check their local SNAP office’s distribution calendar or visit their state’s official portal.
Updated SNAP Payment Amounts for 2025
As part of the FY 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment, SNAP benefit amounts have increased slightly to reflect inflation. The maximum monthly benefit levels for the 48 contiguous U.S. states and Washington D.C. are now:
- 1-person household: $292
- 2-person household: $536
- 3-person household: $768
- 4-person household: $975
- 5-person household: $1,158
- 6-person household: $1,390
- 7-person household: $1,536
- 8-person household: $1,756
- Additional person: +$220
These updated figures are in effect from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025. States like Alaska and Hawaii may have different maximum amounts due to higher living costs. You can view the full details on the USDA’s FY 2025 COLA update page:
Who Is Eligible for SNAP?
SNAP benefits are intended for low-income individuals and families, and eligibility is based on several factors:
- Gross monthly income must generally be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level.
- Net income, after deductions like housing and childcare, must be at or below 100% of the poverty level.
- Assets must be within certain limits, typically $2,750 or $4,250 if at least one person is aged 60 or older or has a disability.
For full eligibility criteria and to check if you qualify, visit the official USDA SNAP eligibility page:
Work Requirement Updates for 2025
As of October 2024, there are expanded work requirements under the SNAP program for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs):
- Adults aged 18–54 must meet work or job training requirements unless exempt.
- Exemptions include pregnant individuals, veterans, people with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness.
These changes are part of policy updates to ensure employable adults stay active in the workforce while still receiving nutritional support.
More details about these changes can be found on the USDA’s SNAP Work Requirements page:
How to Apply for SNAP
If you believe you qualify for SNAP and haven’t yet applied, you can do so online or in person via your state’s Department of Human Services. Start the process here:
Make sure to have the following documents ready:
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
- Identification and Social Security numbers
- Utility bills or rent receipts
- Medical expenses (if applicable)
Final Thoughts
SNAP remains a critical lifeline for millions of families across the country, and the up to $1,756 in benefits being distributed this week provides timely relief as food prices continue to rise. If you live in one of the 13 states sending payments now, make sure to check your EBT balance and stay updated through your state’s official SNAP page.
