SNAP 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 2026, the maximum SNAP benefit, for example, will increase from $292 to $298 for a one-person household and from $975 to $994 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: - Expanded Categorical Eligibility Desk Guide for 2025-26
- SNAP Standards & Deductions plus Budget Worksheet for 2025-26
- Updated SNAP Budget Estimator coming soon
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September 30: Last Day for Eligible SNAP Theft Claims Starting October 1, SNAP offices will no longer accept requests for the replacement of SNAP benefits stolen through skimming, phishing, or other electronic methods. Benefits stolen on or after December 21, 2024, have been ineligible for replacement since federal authority to replace electronically stolen benefits expired in December 2024. However, households with theft that occurred on or before December 20, 2024, can still submit claims until September 30, 2025. Read more on our website and in NYS OTDA’s guidance to SNAP offices. |
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Help SNAP Recipients Protect Their EBT Cards Help keep EBT cards safe by telling your clients about the 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 in this flyer from OTDA. |
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