SNAP benefit payments this week: Electronic Benefits Transfer dates by state

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) sends benefits to the neediest families in different states of the country. It’s a federal assistance program that provides eligible low-income individuals and families with funds to purchase food.

Formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, SNAP benefits are distributed through electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used like a debit card to buy eligible food items at authorized retailers. The program aims to alleviate hunger and improve nutrition among low-income households.

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Who administers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) administers the program at the federal level. However, at the state level, SNAP benefits are distributed and managed by state agencies under various names such as the Department of Social Services or Department of Human Services.

These agencies handle the application process, determine eligibility, and oversee the distribution of benefits to eligible individuals and families. Each state has its own schedule to deliver the money.

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Benefits are usually issued on a monthly basis, with each household assigned a specific issuance date based on factors like the last digit of their case number or the first letter of their last name.

Many states stagger distribution dates throughout the month to avoid overloading retailers and to ensure that benefits are available to recipients evenly throughout the month.

The program has already begun payment delivery for the month of May, and not all states are sending out payments at the same time.

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SNAP Payment Schedule for May 2024

According to the USDA, this is the payment schedule for all states and territories for the month of May.