SNAP Benefits to Rise in 2025 – See How the COLA Adjustment Affects You

Inflation is constantly rising in 2025 – whether it is rent, food items or other essential daily expenses. In such a situation, it has become even more difficult for low-income families to live. But the relief is that America’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program i.e. SNAP, has once again come forward to help. A big change is coming in SNAP benefits in 2025, which is called Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).

In this article, we will explain in simple and understandable language what this COLA change is, what effect it will have on your SNAP benefits, and how you can make the most of it in 2025. If you or someone you know is taking help under SNAP, then this information can be very useful for you.

What is COLA change in SNAP?

Every year a “Cost-of-Living Adjustment” i.e. COLA is made in SNAP. This means that the government checks every year how much inflation has increased – especially in essential expenses like food, house rent, electricity and water bills. Accordingly, the money received from SNAP is increased so that people can buy the things they need even amidst rising inflation.

This COLA has become very important in 2025 because recently the prices of food items have increased very rapidly. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, food prices have increased by about 6% in the last one year.

How much will SNAP benefits increase in 2025?

Now let’s talk about the real question – how much will SNAP benefits increase? The answer depends on the size of your family.

48 states and Washington DC. The maximum monthly benefits for the U.S. are as follows:

1-person household: $292

2-person household: $535

3-person household: $766

4-person household: $975

For each additional person: Add $220

For example: If you have a household of five, you could receive up to $1,195 in SNAP benefits each month, provided your income and expenses are within eligibility.

In other areas:

• Alaska: $1,258 to $1,953 (varies by area)
• Hawaii: Maximum benefit for a family of four $1,723

What else will change with SNAP?

Increase in shelter deduction cap

Rent or housing expenses are the biggest burden for most low-income families. Keeping this in mind, the government has increased the shelter deduction cap from $678 to $712 in 2025. This means that families who are paying more rent or bills are now likely to get more benefits under SNAP.

Work conditions now applicable till 54 years

From 2025, work conditions will also apply to those adults (18-54 years of age) who do not have any dependents (children or any member for care). These people will have to work at least 80 hours every month, or participate in a job training or volunteer program. If someone does not fulfill these conditions, then he will be able to get SNAP benefits for only 3 months in 3 years.
In some states, where unemployment is high, these rules can also be waived for some time.

No change in minimum benefit

The minimum SNAP benefit will remain the same in 2025 – $23 per month. It is for families who have low needs or a little more income but are still eligible for benefits.

Disaster Assistance (D-SNAP)

If an area is hit by a natural disaster, such as a hurricane, flood or fire, affected families may receive benefits under SNAP called “Disaster SNAP,” or D-SNAP. This helps replace food lost in the disaster. More information is available on the Disaster Assistance site.

How to increase SNAP benefits

Keep your information updated
Your SNAP benefits are determined by the information you provide – such as your income, expenses, household size, etc. If your income has decreased, rent has increased, or a new member has joined your household, let your local SNAP office know right away. This may give you a better chance of getting more benefits.

Take advantage of other government assistance

Along with SNAP, there are other programs you can take advantage of:

• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): Special nutrition assistance for pregnant women and young children.
• School Meal Program: Free or reduced-price lunches for children.
• LIHEAP: To help with electricity and heating bills.
• Taking advantage of all these can help you budget more efficiently for the month.

Shop smart

To make your SNAP dollars last longer, it’s important to shop smart:

• Buy in bulk – rice, flour, lentils, etc.
• Buy local store brands instead of branded products.
• Use coupons and shop when discounts are on.

Visit the nearest Farmers Market where SNAP cards are accepted – you can get fresh and affordable vegetables, fruits there.

Conclusion – SNAP 2025: A New Hope

The 2025 SNAP COLA change is not just a number, it is a new ray of relief for millions of Americans. Amidst rising inflation, this update has brought relief to families who struggle to make ends meet every month.

If you are receiving SNAP benefits, update your documents in time, stay informed about important schemes and spend as wisely as possible. These small things can make a big difference for your entire family.

FAQs