Major SNAP Benefit Changes Coming in 2026

Millions of American families relying on food assistance are set to see their benefits change in the coming year. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is implementing several key updates starting in 2026. These changes will affect benefit amounts, purchasing rules, and work requirements for recipients across all 50 states. Understanding these updates is crucial for the program’s roughly 42 million monthly participants.

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SNAP recipients will see a direct boost to their monthly food budget. This increase is tied to a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) mandated by federal law.

For a single-person household in the continental U.S., the maximum benefit will rise to $298 per month. A family of four could receive up to $994 monthly. These new amounts apply starting in October 2025 for the 2026 benefit year.

According to the USDA, higher maximum allotments will also be in effect for Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The adjustment aims to help benefits keep pace with inflation and rising food costs.

New Rules on Work and Purchases

Alongside higher benefits come stricter work mandates. The rules for “able-bodied adults without dependents” (ABAWDs) have been expanded significantly.

Individuals aged 18 to 64 must now meet a work requirement of 80 hours per month. This includes paid employment, job training, or volunteer work. Failure to meet this mandate limits benefits to just three months within a three-year period.

Several states are also banning the purchase of sugary sodas and soft drinks with SNAP funds. Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia will enact these restrictions starting January 1, 2026.

More states are expected to propose similar bans. The goal is to encourage healthier food choices among recipients.

Other Key Adjustments for Households and States

A separate rule change affects how shelter costs are calculated. States can now include internet service expenses in the standard utility allowance (SUA).

This adjustment can potentially increase a household’s SNAP benefit amount. It recognizes internet access as a essential utility for modern life.

Finally, a significant shift in funding will impact state governments. Starting in October 2026, states must cover 75% of SNAP’s administrative costs, up from 50%.

This change may pressure state budgets. It could lead to reduced administrative staffing or longer processing times for applications in some areas.

These SNAP benefit changes for 2026 represent a substantial update to the nation’s primary food assistance safety net. Recipients should prepare for altered benefit amounts and new program rules as the new year approaches.