If you receive SNAP benefits, your monthly food assistance amount may be changing. The federal government has updated maximum payments and eligibility limits for the new fiscal year, and while many households will see a modest increase, the exact amount varies from one household to the next.
The new SNAP amounts took effect on October 1, 2026 and apply through September 30, 2027. While the maximum benefit is rising for most household sizes in the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C., the amount a household actually receives depends on its income, expenses, deductions and household size. You can review the official update on the USDA’s FY 2027 SNAP Cost-of-Living Adjustments page.
New maximum SNAP benefits
For households in the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C., the maximum monthly SNAP allotment for fiscal year 2027 is:
| Household size | Maximum monthly benefit | Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $306 | +$8 |
| 2 people | $562 | +$16 |
| 3 people | $808 | +$23 |
| 4 people | $1,023 | +$29 |
| 5 people | $1,217 | +$34 |
| 6 people | $1,463 | +$42 |
| 7 people | $1,616 | +$45 |
| 8 people | $1,841 | +$52 |
These figures are maximums, not guaranteed payments. A household’s actual benefit is calculated after income tests and allowable deductions are applied, according to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
Higher costs in some states
SNAP benefits are higher in Alaska, Hawaii, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands because of their higher food and living costs. For example, the maximum monthly benefit for a one-person household is $392 in urban Alaska, $452 in Guam, $496 in Hawaii and $394 in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Hawaii’s maximum benefit for a four-person household is $1,655, reflecting the state’s separate cost structure. The full state-by-state amounts are listed in the USDA’s FY 2027 COLA guidance.
How SNAP eligibility works
SNAP looks at both gross and net income. Gross income is a household’s total income before deductions, while net income is what remains after allowable expenses such as housing, childcare and certain medical costs are subtracted.
For most households, the gross monthly income limit is set at 130% of the federal poverty level, while the net income limit is 100% of poverty. Some states use broader eligibility rules, particularly for households with older adults or people with disabilities, so applicants should check their state agency’s requirements. You can find eligibility details and apply through the USDA SNAP eligibility page.
Why benefits do not rise equally
A higher maximum allotment does not mean every SNAP household will receive an extra $8, $16 or $29 per month. Benefits are based on household circumstances, including income, household size, shelter costs, childcare expenses and medical deductions.
Some households may see a smaller increase, while others may see no change or may no longer qualify if their income exceeds the updated limits. The USDA explains how deductions and benefit calculations work on its SNAP eligibility page.
How SNAP is funded
SNAP is primarily funded by the federal government. The U.S. Department of Agriculture oversees the program nationally, while state agencies handle applications, eligibility decisions and benefit distribution through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards.
The federal government pays the full cost of SNAP benefits, but states share administrative expenses. Under legislation enacted in 2025, the federal share of eligible state administrative costs fell from 50% to 25% beginning in fiscal year 2027, leaving states responsible for a larger share. The change is outlined in the Federal Register notice.
Further changes are scheduled for fiscal year 2028. States with higher payment error rates may be required to contribute a portion of SNAP benefit costs, with the share generally ranging from 5% to 15% depending on the error rate. More details are available in the USDA implementation guidance.
What SNAP recipients should do
SNAP recipients should check their state benefits portal, EBT account or local human-services office for their updated monthly amount. Households whose income or expenses have changed should report those changes promptly, since deductions and eligibility limits can affect the final benefit.
To find your state SNAP agency, use the USDA state directory.
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