The Rundown On Eligibility For SNAP Benefits Changes In 2024

SNAP benefits are expanding for 2024, with new eligibility requirements making more Americans able to participate.

The eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits, which supports low-income households with food assistance, changes annually based on new requirements issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. With these new changes to the program, commonly known as food stamps, households must determine if they meet the criteria to continue their assistance for 2024.

The program helps struggling families by allocating a certain amount of monetary funds through an Electronic Benefits (EBT) card, with over 41 million individuals partaking in the program. According to the Daily Mail, this year’s latest updates regarding who can reap these essential benefits have been further designated by the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which released the new requirements on Oct. 1. President Biden signed the act into law in June, which has expanded the benefit allotments and age ranges able to participate.

The ages eligible to apply have increased slightly, with the usual 18-50 age range now expanding to 52 years. Americans within this parameter have to work 80 hours a month to be considered for SNAP benefits, with the age eligibility extending to 54 years by October of next year.

In regards to the monthly income one has to make to qualify, households must make 130% of the federal poverty level or less, starting at $1,580 for families of one. For the typical family of four, they must make no more than $3,250 monthly if living within the 48 contiguous states, in addition to Guam, D.C., and the Virgin Islands. Those living in costlier states, such as Alaska and Hawaii, have a higher threshold of $4,063 and $3,738, respectively.

The monetary element itself has expanded as well, with Cost Of Living adjustments (COLA) determining that the allotments must be raised. Households between one and eight individuals can receive maximum payments of $291 to $1,751 within 48 states and D.C.

For those still or newly eligible to apply, each state has its own process for applying for SNAP benefits, with its assistance going toward combatting the higher costs of everyday goods.