The cost of living adjustment (COLA) affects millions of Americans each year, influencing government assistance programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). As inflation and expenses rise, COLA adjustments help ensure that benefits keep up with economic changes.
For the 2025 fiscal year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has made SNAP benefit adjustments based on COLA, increasing maximum allocations, deductions, and eligibility thresholds. These changes took effect in October 2024 and will remain in place until September 2025.
If you receive SNAP benefits, it’s important to check whether these updates have boosted your assistance.
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COLA
The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service adjusts SNAP allocations each year to reflect changes in the cost of food, housing, and other essentials. These adjustments ensure that low-income households continue to receive adequate support.
Key changes for 2025 include:
- Higher maximum benefit amounts for different household sizes
- Updated eligibility thresholds based on gross and net income
- Regional variations in SNAP benefits for Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the Virgin Islands
SNAP Maximum Allocations
The amount of SNAP benefits a household can receive depends on family size and income. Below are the maximum monthly allocations for the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly SNAP Benefit (2025) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $292 |
| 2 people | $536 |
| 3 people | $768 |
| 4 people | $975 |
| 5 people | $1,158 |
| 6 people | $1,390 |
| 7 people | $1,536 |
| 8 people | $1,756 |
| Each additional person | +$220 per person |
Variations by State
While these figures apply to most of the U.S., Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, and the Virgin Islands have different maximum allocations due to their higher cost of living. To see the exact benefit limits for your location, visit the official USDA website.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for SNAP benefits, households must meet income and resource limits set by the USDA. Eligibility is based on net income, which is gross income minus allowable deductions.
Deductions may include:
- Housing expenses
- Childcare costs
- Medical expenses (for elderly or disabled applicants)
- Dependent care costs
The new income thresholds took effect in October 2024 and will remain valid until September 2025.
How to Check
If you receive SNAP benefits, you can check if the COLA adjustments increased your monthly allocation:
- Log into your state’s SNAP portal – Most states have an online portal where you can view your updated benefit amount.
- Check your EBT card balance – Any increase in your allocation should be reflected in your monthly SNAP deposit.
- Contact your local SNAP office – If you’re unsure about your benefit changes, call or visit your state’s SNAP office for assistance.
Adjustments
With the rising cost of food, rent, and other essentials, SNAP COLA adjustments provide much-needed relief to low-income families. These annual increases ensure that households can continue to afford nutritious meals despite economic changes.
If you haven’t checked your SNAP benefits recently, now is the time to see if your allocation increased for 2025. Every extra dollar can make a difference in covering essential expenses.
FAQs
How much did SNAP benefits increase in 2025?
SNAP maximum allocations increased based on COLA adjustments, with a single-person household now receiving up to $292 per month.
When did the new SNAP benefit amounts take effect?
The updated SNAP allocations started in October 2024 and will be valid until September 2025.
How can I check if my SNAP benefits increased?
Log into your state’s SNAP portal, check your EBT card balance, or contact your local SNAP office.
Do all states have the same SNAP benefit amounts?
No, Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, and the Virgin Islands have different maximum benefit amounts due to a higher cost of living.
What deductions can affect my SNAP eligibility?
Allowable deductions include housing, medical, childcare, and dependent care costs.
