The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides money for the Food Stamps (SNAP) program. Through the Food and Nutrition Service, beneficiaries can receive monthly benefits.
However, there are strict requirements to be met before anyone can qualify for SNAP benefits. There are income and resources tests, and work among other conditions to cash Food Stamps.
The aim of this program is to fight hunger and bring it to an end. That is why this money is only for those citizens who have a low income in the United States. By giving them extra cash, they can get a monthly supplement and have more money for housing, healthcare, or schooling.
WHICH ARE THE LATEST CHANGES TO IMPROVE THE FOOD STAMPS PROGRAM?
As of October 1, 2023, the United States Department of Agriculture increased the benefits amounts in the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia. Of course, this is a clear sign of the commitment of the Federal government to make this program successful.
As a matter of fact, recipients of the Food Stamps program are receiving a 3.5% rise in October. For example, a single individual collecting the maximum amount can receive about $120 extra in 2024.
That is about 10 dollars extra each month. Of course, the higher the Food Stamps amount someone receives, the more dollars they will receive thanks to the COLA boost.
In order to avoid sending money to someone who wants to take advantage of the program, they make sure they meet all the general and specific work requirements.
Bear in mind that if you are aged 18-52, you can work and have no child to look after, you must meet the ABAWD time limit. Or else, you will have to meet additional work requirements to cash SNAP.
ABAWD stands for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents and makes workers aged 18-52 work for at least 20 hours per week. A total of 80 hours is necessary to cash benefits for more than 3 months in a 3-year time frame.
If your SNAP benefits were stolen through skimming or phishing between 10/1/22 and 9/30/24 you can apply for replacement benefits. Get more details: https://t.co/ff7vIgnSZ1 pic.twitter.com/PNO93LdyZg
— Mass. Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) (@DTA_Listens) October 13, 2023
Next year, there will be another age increase for those ABAWD. So, those up to the age of 54 may have to face these work requirements. If you know someone who can qualify for SNAP, you can help them file for benefits online. If you cash these benefits in Massachusetts and need replacement because of skimming, do it now.