Here’s how much SNAP benefits will increase in October 2025: All the details you need to know
Starting October 1, the maximum amounts for SNAP benefits, formerly known as food stamps, will increase.
Starting October 1, benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, will increase—and the new maximum amounts have already been confirmed.
Each month, SNAP provides financial assistance to low-income families to help them purchase eligible food items using an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. The EBT card works like a debit card and can be used at approved grocery stores and retailers.
The monthly benefit amount depends on several factors, including household size, gross and net income, work requirements, and other eligibility criteria. Maximum benefit amounts are updated annually at the end of the fiscal year, which ends on September 30. The new amounts take effect on October 1.
How much will SNAP benefits increase in October?
According to the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, maximum benefit amounts will rise for the 48 contiguous U.S. states, Washington D.C., Alaska, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. However, Hawaii and Guam will see a decrease.
Here are the new maximum monthly benefits for a family of four:
- 48 contiguous states & D.C.: $994
- Alaska: Between $1,285 and $1,995
- Hawaii: $1,723
- Guam: $1,689
- U.S. Virgin Islands: $1,278
The minimum monthly benefit in the 48 states and D.C. will be $24. In Alaska, it will range from $31 to $48, while Hawaii’s minimum remains at $41.
Maximum SNAP Benefits by Household Size (48 states & D.C.):
- 1 member: $298
- 2 members: $546
- 3 members: $785
- 4 members: $994
- 5 members: $1,183
- 6 members: $1,421
- 7 members: $1,571
- 8 members: $1,789
- Each additional member: +$218
You can view the full payment tables and details about the benefit increase on the USDA website.
What can you buy with an EBT card?
According to the USDA, EBT cards can be used at any location that accepts SNAP benefits to purchase household food items, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Bread and cereals
- Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants that produce food for the household
However, SNAP benefits cannot be used to buy:
- Alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, liquor)
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins, medicines, and supplements
- Live animals
- Hot foods sold at the point of sale
- Non-food items (e.g., cleaning supplies, pet food, paper products).
In some states, restrictions may also apply to sugary drinks, sodas, snacks, and candy.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment