Fact Check: Are Millions of Americans Really About to Lose SNAP Benefits?

Millions of Americans who rely on food assistance could face disruption to their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits as the government shutdown continues. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed that benefits will not be issued on Nov. 1 unless Congress restores funding. This affects nearly 42 million individuals, or roughly one in eight Americans.

The claim that “millions of Americans will lose SNAP benefits” is accurate in the short term if the shutdown persists. However, it’s important to note that the program itself is not being permanently canceled—payments are temporarily halted due to the lack of federal appropriations.

What SNAP Benefits Are and Who Receives Them

SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamps Program, provides monthly food assistance to low-income individuals and families. Established permanently in 1964 under President Lyndon B. Johnson, the program remains one of the largest federal nutrition safety nets in the country. According to the USDA, nearly 22 million households—totaling about 42 million people—currently receive SNAP benefits nationwide.

Eligibility for the program depends on income, household size, and assets. Generally, recipients must have a gross income below 130% of the federal poverty level and meet certain work requirements unless exempt. Households with elderly or disabled members have higher limits and some flexibility in these rules. States such as California, Texas, New York, and Florida have the largest total number of recipients, while Washington, D.C., New Mexico, and Oregon have the highest participation rates relative to population size.

Data from the Congressional Research Service shows that almost 39% of SNAP participants are children under 18, while 14% are seniors and 8% have disabilities. This means that the potential benefit freeze will primarily hit the most vulnerable populations.

Why USDA Warns of a Halt in SNAP Benefits

The current suspension stems from the ongoing federal government shutdown that began on Oct. 1 after lawmakers failed to pass a budget resolution. Funding for SNAP comes from congressional appropriations, which flow through the USDA to state agencies that distribute monthly benefits. Without an approved federal budget, the USDA lacks the funds to issue payments.

In a memo released this week, the USDA stated that the “well has run dry,” signaling that no contingency funds will be used to cover November benefits. The agency emphasized that without immediate congressional action, states will be unable to process November allotments. This effectively means millions of low-income families could miss their next food payments starting Nov. 1.

During fiscal year 2024, SNAP accounted for around $100 billion in federal spending—less than 2% of the national budget. Yet, the pause illustrates how critical the program’s consistent funding is for everyday Americans who depend on it for basic food access.

Potential Impact on Families and the Economy

If the shutdown persists, food insecurity will rise sharply, especially among children and seniors. Grocery retailers, especially small businesses and local supermarkets that process SNAP transactions, may also face revenue drops as consumers lose purchasing power.

Experts note that the average monthly benefit per household is about $351, which covers only a portion of food costs. Even a single missed payment could push many families into crisis. Analysts from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities warn that hunger rates could “spike within days” if funding lapses continue.

In summary, while SNAP benefits are not being permanently eliminated, the ongoing government shutdown means that millions of Americans will temporarily lose access starting Nov. 1 unless Congress acts swiftly to approve emergency funding.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Are SNAP benefits ending permanently?

No. The benefits are temporarily halted due to the government shutdown. Once funding is restored, payments should resume.

Q2: How many people rely on SNAP?

Nearly 42 million Americans, or one in eight residents, receive SNAP benefits, according to USDA data.

Q3: When will SNAP payments stop?

Unless Congress passes a funding bill, benefits will not be issued beginning Nov. 1, 2025.

Q4: What is the average SNAP benefit per household?

The average household receives about $351 monthly, depending on income and family size.

Q5: Which states have the most SNAP recipients?

California, Texas, New York, and Florida have the largest total recipients. New Mexico and D.C. have the highest participation rates per capita.