The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a lifeline for many American families, helping them put food on the table during tough times. This July, SNAP beneficiaries across 38 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and Guam are anticipating their payments.
These benefits, which can be as much as $1,751 per family, are loaded onto Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. These cards function like debit cards and are accepted at most grocery stores and supermarkets, both physical and online, that participate in the SNAP program.
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Importance of SNAP
SNAP is critical for Americans struggling to feed their families. To qualify, a household’s income must be at or below 100% of the federal poverty level, highlighting the economic hardship many families face. The monthly benefits vary by household size, with individuals receiving up to $291, and families of eight receiving up to $1,751.
Monthly Distribution
SNAP does not release benefits all at once. Instead, the annual amount is divided into monthly allotments, ensuring that recipients receive consistent support. This method helps families budget their food expenses throughout the year, providing a steady source of relief.
Summer Supplement
The summer months pose additional challenges for families, particularly those with school-aged children who rely on free or reduced-price school meals. Recognizing this, the SNAP program has introduced a new initiative called SUN Bucks.
This initiative, which started as a temporary measure during the pandemic, has now become a permanent part of the program. It provides additional funds during the summer to offset the loss of school meals.
SUN Bucks Details
SUN Bucks are not uniformly distributed across all states. Instead, states can choose whether to participate. For those that opt-in, families with school-aged children will receive $40 per month per child, up to $120 per child, for the summer months. These payments are typically issued as a lump sum, but the exact distribution method is determined by each state.
July Distribution Schedule
Here is a breakdown of when SNAP benefits will be distributed in July for various states and territories:
State/Territory | Distribution Dates |
---|---|
Alabama | July 4 to 23 |
Arizona | July 1 to 13 |
Arkansas | July 4 to 13 |
California | July 1 to 10 |
Colorado | July 1 to 10 |
Delaware | July 2 to 23 |
D.C. | July 1 to 10 |
Florida | July 1 to 28 |
Georgia | July 5 to 23 |
Guam | July 1 to 10 |
Idaho | July 1 to 10 |
Illinois | July 1 to 10 |
Indiana | July 5 to 23 |
Iowa | July 1 to 10 |
Kansas | July 1 to 10 |
Kentucky | July 1 to 19 |
Louisiana | July 1 to 23 |
Maine | July 10 to 14 |
Maryland | July 4 to 23 |
Massachusetts | July 1 to 14 |
Michigan | July 3 to 21 |
Minnesota | July 4 to 13 |
Mississippi | July 4 to 21 |
Missouri | July 1 to 22 |
Nevada | July 1 to 10 |
New Mexico | July 1 to 20 |
New York | July 1 to 9 |
North Carolina | July 3 to 21 |
Ohio | July 2 to 20 |
Oklahoma | July 1 to 10 |
Oregon | July 1 to 9 |
Pennsylvania | July 3 to 14 |
Puerto Rico | July 4 to 22 |
South Carolina | July 1 to 10 |
South Dakota | July 10 |
Tennessee | July 1 to 20 |
Texas | July 1 to 28 |
Utah | July 11 and 15 |
Washington | July 1 to 20 |
West Virginia | July 1 to 9 |
Wisconsin | July 1 to 15 |
SNAP benefits are essential for many families, providing the financial support needed to purchase food. This July, beneficiaries can look forward to their payments and, in some states, additional SUN Bucks to help cover summer meal costs. It’s important for recipients to stay informed about their state’s distribution schedule and any additional benefits they may be eligible for.
FAQs
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for a family?
Up to $1,751 per family.
How are SNAP benefits distributed?
Monthly via EBT cards.
What are SUN Bucks?
Additional summer funds for families with school-aged children.
How much can children get in SUN Bucks?
Up to $120 per child.
When are July SNAP benefits distributed?
Dates vary by state. Check your state schedule.