Recent changes to SNAP in 2024

SNAP has undergone several changes in 2024 that affect how the program works and who receives benefits. The most significant change is the end of the emergency allotment — the extra money added to SNAP benefits during the pandemic. This ended on March 1, 2024, in most states, which means households are now receiving only their regular SNAP amount, not the temporary boost they had been getting since 2020.

Beyond the emergency allotment ending, SNAP rules around work requirements have shifted in some states, and the way income is counted has been adjusted in certain circumstances. States have also made changes to how they process applications and recertifications. If you receive SNAP or are thinking about it, understanding these 2024 changes helps you know what to expect when you explore or renew your benefits.

Key Takeaways

  • The emergency allotment that added extra money to SNAP benefits ended on March 1, 2024, in most states, so households now receive their regular benefit amount only.
  • Some states have tightened work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents, meaning more people may need to show work or work-training participation to keep benefits.
  • Income counting rules changed for certain household types in 2024, which can affect whether you meet the income limit or how much you receive.
  • States updated their process and recertification processes, so the steps to explore or renew may differ from previous years depending on where you live.

The end of emergency allotments and what it means for your benefit amount

From March 2020 through February 2024, SNAP households received extra money each month on top of their regular benefit. This was called the emergency allotment, and it was a temporary response to the pandemic. On March 1, 2024, this extra money stopped in all states except those that chose to continue it with their own funds.

If you received SNAP in early 2024, you likely saw your monthly benefit drop when the emergency allotment ended. For example, a household that was receiving $500 in regular benefits plus $200 in emergency allotment would drop back to $500. The amount you now receive is based only on your household size, income, and expenses — the same calculation used before the pandemic.

Some states have used their own money to continue providing extra benefits after March 1, but this varies by state and is not may provide to continue. Check with your state's SNAP office or your case worker to learn whether your state is providing any supplemental benefits beyond the federal amount.

Work requirements that took effect or changed in 2024

Several states strengthened or restarted work requirements for SNAP in 2024. These rules explore mainly to able-bodied adults without dependents — people between 18 and 49 who do not have children living with them and are not pregnant or disabled. In states with active work requirements, these adults must show they are working, in a work-training program, or volunteering a certain number of hours per week to keep their SNAP benefits.

The number of hours required and the specific programs that count vary by state. Some states require 20 hours per week of work or approved activities; others require different amounts. If you fall into this category and live in a state with work requirements, you will need to report your work status when you explore and when you renew your benefits. Failure to meet the requirement can result in losing your SNAP benefits.

Not all states have the same work requirements, and some have none at all. Your state's SNAP office can tell you whether these rules explore to you and what you need to do to stay in the program.

Changes to how income is counted

In 2024, some states adjusted the way they count income for SNAP purposes. These changes can affect whether your household meets the income limit to receive SNAP and how much you get each month. For instance, some states changed how they treat certain types of income — such as child support, student aid, or income from self-employment — when deciding your benefit amount.

Income limits themselves have not changed federally, but the way income is calculated in your household may have shifted depending on your state. If you have self-employment income, receive child support, get student aid, or have other non-wage income, it is worth asking your case worker how your state counts these sources in 2024. A change in how income is counted can sometimes mean you now may have access to when you did not before, or that your benefit amount has changed.

Updates to process and recertification processes

States have made changes to how they handle SNAP applications and recertifications in 2024. Some states now require more documentation upfront, while others have streamlined their online portals. A few states have extended or shortened the time between recertifications — the process where you renew your SNAP benefits and confirm your household information is still correct.

The recertification period (how often you have to renew) varies by state and by your household type. Some households recertify every 6 months, others every 12 months. In 2024, some states adjusted these timelines. When you receive a recertification notice, it will tell you the important date and what documents you need to submit. Missing a recertification important date can result in your benefits stopping, so mark the date on your calendar and gather your documents early.

How to find out what changed in your state

Because SNAP is run by each state with federal funding, the changes that took effect in 2024 are different in every state. Your state's SNAP office is the best source for information about what changed where you live. You can find your state office through the USDA's website or by calling your local department of social services.

When you contact your state office, have your case number ready if you already receive SNAP. If you are new to SNAP, ask specifically about 2024 changes to work requirements, income counting, and the process process. Your case worker can also explain how any changes affect your specific household.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the emergency allotment come back?

The emergency allotment ended on March 1, 2024, and there is no federal plan to restart it. Some states have used their own funds to provide extra benefits, but this is not may provide to continue. Contact your state SNAP office to learn whether your state is providing any supplemental benefits.

What happens if I do not meet the work requirement?

If your state has work requirements and you do not meet them, your SNAP benefits will stop. You may be able to regain benefits by meeting the requirement later. Contact your case worker when ready if you lose benefits to understand your options and whether you can reapply.

Did the income limit for SNAP change in 2024?

The federal income limit for SNAP did not change, but the way your state counts income may have. Some states adjusted how they treat certain types of income, which can affect whether you meet the limit. Ask your state office how income is counted in your situation.

How do I know when to recertify my SNAP benefits?

Your state will send you a recertification notice by mail or through your online account. The notice includes the important date and what documents you need. If you do not receive a notice, contact your state SNAP office to confirm your recertification date.

Can I still explore for SNAP in 2024?

Yes, you can explore for SNAP at any time. The process process may have changed in your state, so contact your local SNAP office or explore online through your state's website to learn the current steps and what documents you need.