Snap Benefits Changes for Seniors and Others

U.S. -- February 21, 2023: The benefit amounts for SNAP households could change due to a number
of factors in the upcoming months. Emergency allotments, a short-term increase in SNAP payments

implemented during the COVID-19 epidemic,will come to an end after the February 2023 issue nationally. The substantial cost of living rise to Social Security benefits that went into effect on January 1, 2023 will also result in a reduction in SNAP benefits for households who receive both Social Security and SNAP benefits.

Those SNAP households interested in learning more about these improvements may get in touch with their regional SNAP office.

In the following states: Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Wyoming. In states where emergency allocations have already ceased.

Because their Social Security payment is higher, SNAP households who also get Social Security benefits can notice a reduction in their SNAP benefits starting in January 2023.
In South Carolina, where the government will no longer be making emergency allocations after the January 2023 issuance:

All South Carolina SNAP households see a restoration to normal SNAP payment amounts in February 2023. Families that also receive Social Security may see a reduction in their SNAP income due to the greater Social Security benefit.
In the remaining 32 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, where emergency allocations are still being given out:

For all SNAP households, the standard March 2023 benefit amounts apply. Due to the greater Social Security benefits received by households who simultaneously receive SNAP, their SNAP benefit

Learn more and check for updates here

WNCTIMES by Marjorie Farrington