October Eligibility and Budgeting Changes |
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With the start of each new federal fiscal year on October 1, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) adjusts the standards and deductions that determine the monthly benefit amount an eligible household will receive. In fiscal year 2025, SNAP maximum benefit amounts under USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan will increase by only a few dollars. With this update, the maximum SNAP benefit, for example, will increase from $291 to $292 for a one-person household and from $973 to $975 for a four-person household. Our SNAP October 1 Toolkit reflects these changes and provides resources to help community organizations that work with SNAP applicants. Toolkit resources include: While any increase in SNAP benefits is good news for those relying on SNAP, this year’s increase to the maximum benefit is so slight that it will not provide any real relief from rising food prices, leaving countless people without adequate SNAP benefits. This underscores the critical need for a strong Farm Bill that protects and strengthens SNAP. |
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SNAP Benefit Skimming Replacement Update The federal authority that allows for the replacement of skimmed SNAP benefits is set to expire on Monday, September 30, 2024; however, advocates are urging Congress to extend it. If Congress does not act, SNAP offices will be unable to issue replacement benefits for theft that occurs after September 30, 2024. This would not impact claims for skimmed Cash Assistance benefits. We will keep our network informed of any updates or extensions. In the meantime, we encourage EBT cardholders to continue tracking and documenting any skimming activities that occur after September 30, 2024, in anticipation of a possible extension. Regardless of an extension, cardholders will still be able to file claims (electronically in NYC or by using this form) for replacement of skimmed SNAP benefits after September 30, 2024, for any theft that occurred on or before September 30, 2024, as long as the claim is filed within 30 days after they learned the benefits were stolen. Visit our website to learn about scams targeting Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cardholders, how to help SNAP recipients replace stolen benefits and protect their EBT cards, and more. |
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Help SNAP Recipients Protect Their EBT Cards Help keep EBT cards safe by telling your clients about new freeze/unfreeze functions for EBT cards. This function allows SNAP households to secure their EBT card and protect their benefits from theft by blocking purchases, balance inquiries, and transactions. Before purchasing food, cardholders can unfreeze their card with the ebtEDGE app and freeze it again after checkout. Instructions for accessing the freeze/unfreeze options are available on the OTDA website. |
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