The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides critical financial assistance to low-income households, helping them purchase essential food items to maintain a healthy lifestyle. In Texas, SNAP benefits are distributed through the Lone Star Card, a system managed by Texas Health and Human Services.
As 2024 comes to a close, it’s important for beneficiaries to know when their final payments will be issued. Payments are distributed based on the Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number, which can be found on official SNAP documents.
Here’s what you need to know about Texas SNAP benefits and the payment schedule for the last week of December 2024.
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Texas SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits can be used to purchase a variety of essential foods, including:
- Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
- Fruits and vegetables.
- Non-prepared (non-hot) food items.
Cannot Be Purchased
The Lone Star Card cannot be used to purchase:
- Alcohol or tobacco products.
- Hot prepared foods.
- Non-food items or services (e.g., paying bills).
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility is based on household income and size. Here’s a quick overview of income limits:
- Single-person household: Maximum income of $2,005 per month.
- Five-person household: Maximum income of $4,832 per month.
- Additional members: Add $707 per person.
Certain conditions, like work requirements, apply to adults aged 18–52, but exemptions exist for pregnant or disabled individuals.
Payment Schedule
SNAP benefits in Texas are issued monthly from the 1st to the 28th, based on the recipient’s EDG number. For those expecting payments during the last week of December 2024, here is the schedule:
| EDG Number | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 79–81 | December 23, 2024 |
| 82–85 | December 24, 2024 |
| 86–88 | December 25, 2024 |
| 89–92 | December 26, 2024 |
| 93–95 | December 27, 2024 |
| 96–99 | December 28, 2024 |
How to Check
Your Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number is crucial for determining when your benefits will be deposited. This number is provided in official SNAP documents or correspondence from Texas Health and Human Services.
If you’re unsure about your EDG number or payment date, contact the SNAP hotline at 1-877-541-7905 or visit the YourTexasBenefits website.
Final Reminders
- Double-check your EDG number to confirm your payment date.
- Make purchases for eligible items only to ensure proper use of SNAP benefits.
- Plan ahead, as the holiday season may bring increased demand at grocery stores.
By staying informed, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience with your SNAP benefits as you prepare for the new year.
FAQs
What is the Lone Star Card?
It’s Texas’s SNAP EBT card used to access benefits.
How are Texas SNAP payments scheduled?
Payments are based on the EDG number, issued from the 1st to 28th of each month.
What items cannot be purchased with SNAP?
Alcohol, tobacco, hot foods, and non-food items are prohibited.
How do I find my EDG number?
Your EDG number is on official SNAP documents or correspondence from Texas Health and Human Services.
What is the income limit for a single-person household?
A single-person household can earn up to $2,005 per month to qualify.
