SNAP checks are going back to their normal amounts in many states. So, a very important change is going to take place soon regarding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in the USA.
This support program that helps American families with low income may soon get a reduction. They increased its amount to help buy essential grocery items for those who could not afford them during the pandemic.
The extra amount of money these households could get was at least $95 per month. Sometimes, the money they received for this SNAP checks boost was higher than that. February is the last month to get this extra money for 32 US states. Therefore, it will be an important reduction for many families that are now in difficulty due to the high inflation.
How many states have already reduced this extra SNAP increase?
There are 18 states that have already lowered this SNAP benefit increase from the pandemic. They believe that the effects of the pandemic are over, so they are no longer necessary. Wyoming, Tennessee, South Carolina, South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, Montana, Missouri, Mississippi, Kentucky, Iowa, Indiana, Idaho, Georgia, Florida, Arkansas, Arizona, and Alaska have gone back to the previous check amounts.
It will be in the remaining states, including the District of Columbia, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands where these extra SNAP checks will still be available. So, this February extra payment will be over in March 2023. This SNAP reduction will certainly affect those with the lowest incomes. Due to inflation and the soaring prices of food, gas, and electricity, they may need extra support.
Food and Nutrition Service informed of these changes in 2023
According to the Food and Nutrition Service, on March 2023 Snap checks go back to normal. In addition, it will affect all SNAP households. FNS informs that some Social Security beneficiaries may see a reduction in their SNAP checks because of their higher SSA benefit. They also advise SNAP households to contact their local office.
Their local offices will be able to inform them of all the changes in case they have further questions. Remember that the boost SNAP had was temporary, so these emergency allotments will soon be over all over the USA. Here is a map with all the local SNAP offices of the State Directory of Resources in case you need to contact them.
So if you can apply for this financial help do not hesitate to do so, as it can be very beneficial to your household finances. SNAP can make many families have good money present for all their monthly expenses. Any financial help a family can receive is always welcome. So apply for both SNAP and any other Social Security benefits for which you are eligible.