On Election Day, November 5, 2024, thousands of Americans will receive SNAP benefits (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). These payments are crucial for low-income families and individuals, helping them afford groceries. Since October 1, 2024, all SNAP benefits have included the 2025 COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment), which provides a slight increase in benefits to help recipients manage rising living costs due to inflation.
While some states have already distributed their November benefits, others will begin payments on or around Election Day. Let’s break down the payment schedules, the 2025 COLA increase, and which states will continue sending payments after November 5.
SNAP Benefits
The 2025 COLA increase ensures that SNAP benefits keep up with inflation, giving recipients more money to help cover food costs. Since October 2024, recipients have seen a boost in their monthly benefits, providing much-needed support as the cost of living rises.
SNAP Payments on Election Day
While some states issue all SNAP payments on a single day, others distribute them over several days. Here’s a breakdown of the states that will begin sending SNAP payments on Election Day (November 5, 2024) or later.
| State | SNAP Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Georgia | November 5 to 23 |
| Indiana | November 5 to 23 |
| Utah | November 5, 11, 15 |
| New Hampshire | November 5 |
These states will begin issuing payments on November 5, with payments continuing until later in the month for some recipients.
SNAP Payments After Election Day
Many other states will issue SNAP payments on or around Election Day but continue disbursing benefits afterward. Here’s a table showing the states and their payment schedules:
| State | SNAP Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | November 4 to 23 |
| Arizona | November 1 to 13 |
| Arkansas | November 4 to 13 |
| California | November 1 to 10 |
| Colorado | November 1 to 10 |
| Delaware | November 2 to 23 |
| Florida | November 1 to 28 |
| Hawaii | November 3 to 5 |
| Illinois | November 1 to 10 |
| Iowa | November 1 to 10 |
| Kentucky | November 1 to 19 |
| Louisiana | November 1 to 23 |
| Maryland | November 4 to 23 |
| Michigan | November 3 to 21 |
| Minnesota | November 4 to 13 |
| Mississippi | November 4 to 21 |
| Missouri | November 1 to 22 |
| Montana | November 2 to 6 |
| Nebraska | November 1 to 5 |
| Nevada | November 1 to 10 |
| New Jersey | November 1 to 5 |
| New Mexico | November 1 to 20 |
| New York | November 1 to 9 |
| North Carolina | November 3 to 21 |
| Ohio | November 2 to 20 |
| Oklahoma | November 1 to 10 |
| Oregon | November 1 to 9 |
| Pennsylvania | First 10 business days of November |
| South Carolina | November 1 to 10 |
| South Dakota | November 10 |
| Tennessee | November 1 to 20 |
| Texas | November 1 to 28 |
| Virginia | November 1 to 7 |
| Washington | November 1 to 20 |
| West Virginia | November 1 to 9 |
| Wisconsin | November 1 to 15 |
These states spread their SNAP payments over a range of days, meaning some recipients may not receive their benefits until later in November.
SNAP Payments for November
Some states issue all of their SNAP benefits on the same day or within the first few days of the month. Here’s a list of states where all November payments have already been completed:
| State | SNAP Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Alaska | November 1 |
| Vermont | November 1 |
| Rhode Island | November 1 |
| North Dakota | November 1 |
| Wyoming | November 1 to 4 |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | November 1 |
In these states, all SNAP recipients have already received their payments for November.
U.S. Territories and D.C.
In the U.S. territories and Washington, D.C., SNAP payments are spread out over the first half of November. Here are the payment schedules:
| Territory/Location | SNAP Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Guam | November 1 to 10 |
| Puerto Rico | November 4 to 22 |
| District of Columbia | November 1 to 10 |
These areas follow similar schedules to the states, with payments issued at the beginning of the month.
SNAP and EBT Payments
SNAP benefits are distributed via Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, which work like debit cards. These cards can be used at authorized retailers to buy eligible food items, such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy. The exact date you receive your SNAP benefits depends on your state’s payment schedule and, in some cases, your case number or Social Security Number.
If you are expecting your SNAP payment on or after Election Day, it’s a good idea to check your state’s specific schedule to know when funds will be available on your EBT card. Most states continue distributing payments throughout November.
On Election Day 2024, many Americans will not only cast their votes but also receive essential financial assistance through the SNAP program. With the 2025 COLA increase already in effect, recipients will notice slightly higher benefits to help cover rising food costs. While some states have already issued their SNAP payments, others will begin or continue distributing benefits on and after November 5. Be sure to check your state’s payment schedule to stay informed.
FAQs
When will SNAP payments start on Election Day?
SNAP payments will start on November 5, 2024.
Which states issue SNAP payments on Election Day?
Georgia, Indiana, Utah, and New Hampshire issue payments on November 5.
What is the 2025 COLA increase for SNAP?
The COLA increase adjusts benefits to keep up with inflation.
Will Florida issue SNAP payments on Election Day?
Yes, Florida will issue payments from November 1 to 28.
How are SNAP benefits distributed?
SNAP benefits are distributed via EBT cards, which work like debit cards.
