The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, helps millions of people in the U.S. buy healthy food each month. If you or someone in your family depends on SNAP benefits, it’s important to understand when the money will be added to your card, how much you can get, and who qualifies for help. This guide will break down the May 2025 SNAP payout schedule, explain the latest eligibility rules, show you how much you might receive, and update you on important changes to the program.
What Is SNAP and How Does It Help?
SNAP is a federal program that gives money to low-income families so they can buy food. Instead of paper coupons, benefits are now loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. You can use this card like a debit card at most grocery stores.
As of 2025, over 42 million Americans get help from SNAP to put food on the table. Each state runs the program slightly differently, so when you get your money may depend on where you live.
May 2025 SNAP Deposit Dates by State
In May 2025, SNAP benefits will be sent out on different days depending on your state. Most states use part of your case number, Social Security number, or last name to decide when your money will arrive.
Here are a few examples:
| State | Deposit Dates | What Decides Your Date |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | May 1–28 | Your eligibility group |
| California | May 1–10 | Last digit of your case number |
| Florida | May 1–28 | Your case number |
| Illinois | May 1–10 | Your case file number |
| Mississippi | May 4–21 | Last two digits of case number |
| New York | May 1–9 | Your case number |
To know your exact deposit date, check your state’s SNAP website or log into your EBT account online.
Who Can Get SNAP Benefits in 2025?
Not everyone can get SNAP. You must meet certain income and asset limits. Here’s a simple breakdown of what that means:
Income Limits
- Gross Income: This is your total income before taxes. It must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level.
- Net Income: This is your income after deductions like rent or childcare. It must be at or below 100% of the federal poverty level.
Asset Limits
- Most households: Must have $2,500 or less in savings or assets.
- Households with someone over 60 or disabled: Must have $3,750 or less in savings or assets.
Work Rules for Adults (ABAWDs)
If you’re between 18 and 54 years old and don’t have children, you must do at least 80 hours of work or job training each month to keep your benefits.
You don’t have to meet this rule if you are:
- A veteran
- Homeless
- Pregnant
- Physically or mentally unable to work
SNAP Benefit Amounts in 2025
The amount of SNAP money you get depends on your household size and income. Here’s the maximum monthly SNAP benefit for most states (excluding Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the Virgin Islands which may offer more due to higher living costs):
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $291 |
| 2 | $535 |
| 3 | $766 |
| 4 | $973 |
| 5 | $1,155 |
| 6 | $1,386 |
| 7 | $1,532 |
| 8 | $1,751 |
| Each extra person | +$219 |
If your income is lower, you may receive the full amount. If it’s higher but still within the limit, you might get less.
What’s New in SNAP in 2025?
There have been a few key changes to the SNAP program this year:
1. Work Requirement Age Increased
Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) used to have to work from age 18–49. That rule now applies to those aged 18–54. So more people now have to meet the work rules.
2. Higher Benefits Due to Cost-of-Living
To keep up with rising prices, most states have raised benefit amounts slightly.
3. Future State Funding Rules
Starting in 2028, states will need to help pay for SNAP if they make too many errors giving out benefits. This new rule is meant to reduce mistakes and improve how benefits are managed.
What Can You Buy With SNAP?
You can use SNAP benefits to buy most types of food, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Bread and grains
- Meat and poultry
- Dairy products
- Seeds and plants to grow food at home
You cannot use SNAP to buy:
- Alcohol or tobacco
- Hot foods ready to eat
- Non-food items like soap, pet food, or paper products
Some states are talking about limiting items like sugary drinks and junk food, but this depends on local rules.
Final Thoughts
SNAP is an important program that helps millions of people across the U.S. buy the food they need each month. In May 2025, changes to work rules and benefit amounts are affecting many families. It’s important to stay updated by checking your state’s SNAP website or contacting your local office.
Whether you’re new to the program or have been using it for years, understanding your eligibility, benefit amount, and payment dates can help you plan better. Remember to check your EBT balance regularly and report any changes in income or household size to avoid problems with your benefits.
FAQ’S
1. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy hot meals?
No, you usually can’t use SNAP to buy hot or prepared meals. SNAP is for groceries like fruits, vegetables, meat, and bread. Some states have special programs for hot meals, so check with your local office.
2. What if I lost my EBT card?
If your EBT card is lost or stolen, call the customer service number right away (on your state’s SNAP website) to report it. They will send you a new card and protect your benefits.
3. Can students get SNAP benefits?
Some students can get SNAP if they meet certain rules. For example, students who work 20+ hours a week, have a disability, or take part in certain programs may qualify. Check with your local SNAP office for details.