Particle.news
Download on the App Store

SNAP Payments Restart as States Roll Out Tougher Rules and New Eligibility Limits

USDA guidance tied to the summer law is driving state rollouts that are expected to push many off the program.

Overview

  • Ohio officials say full November SNAP benefits will post by Wednesday after shutdown delays, while Kentucky and Indiana delivered full issuances over the weekend and Georgia began partial payments of up to 65%.
  • States are implementing the One Big Beautiful Bill’s expanded work mandates for most able-bodied adults without dependents up to about age 65, requiring 80 hours of work or training per month and narrowing caregiver exemptions to children under 14.
  • USDA’s new guidance tightens noncitizen eligibility to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, Cuban and Haitian entrants, and COFA citizens, with most lawful permanent residents facing a five-year wait and refugees and asylees losing access.
  • USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins has signaled a forthcoming requirement that all SNAP recipients reapply, with timing and procedures still unspecified.
  • Analyses cited in the coverage project millions could lose or see reduced benefits under the changes, and food banks report record demand and emergency distributions as households navigate uneven November issuances.