The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has raised benefits for April 2025 due to the yearly Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). The change is intended to assist low-income families in coping with increasing living expenses. Operated by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), SNAP is the largest federal nutrition program, serving millions of Americans via EBT cards utilized at participating food stores.
Why SNAP Benefits Increased in 2025 Due to COLA
COLA is one of the indicators federal programs use to make annual adjustments in benefits. It mirrors the fluctuations in inflation and living expenses throughout the U.S. For fiscal year 2025, which started on October 1, 2024, the adjustments took effect and triggered another round of SNAP benefit hikes. The new numbers are particularly important for those already living on tight budgets, as food prices continue to be high in much of the nation.
April 2025 SNAP Maximum Allotment Chart
SNAP allocations vary depending on household size, income, and location. However, for most of the 48 states and Washington D.C., the USDA has published the following maximum monthly benefits:
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,158
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
Each additional person: Add $220
The minimum benefit for eligible households in these areas remains $23, unchanged from previous amounts.
New ABAWD Rule 2025: Key Eligibility Changes
One of the major changes in 2025 is for eligibility for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD). Before, those aged between 18 and 50 in this group must have worked or been involved in a qualified work program for a minimum of 80 hours monthly. In 2025, the age requirement has been increased to 54, so more individuals must satisfy these conditions unless they are exempt.
Eligibility is also based on income levels, namely gross income not to exceed 130% of the federal poverty level. Net income, which deducts permissible deductions from gross income, is also considered at application and recertification.
How SNAP Benefit Increases Help Families and the Economy
This SNAP boost is especially beneficial for families struggling to stay current on food expenses. A family of four can now be eligible for as much as $975 per month in food assistance. This not only assists in paying for essential needs but also puts money back into local economies, particularly low-income communities.
Most recipients will receive their benefits through EBT card payments in the second week of April, depending on their state’s payment schedule. States such as Florida and Texas have already started recertification processes, and citizens are advised to renew in time to prevent interruptions in benefits.
Final Thoughts
With the economy in a state of flux and the cost of living adjusting, SNAP remains a key support for hard-pressed Americans. With the 2025 COLA boost, families can anticipate a little more assistance in placing food on the table. Keeping up to date with eligibility guidelines and payout dates is still of great importance to those who are dependent on this safety net of a program.
Credit Source: SNAP food stamp increase for April 2025: What are the maximum amounts thanks to COLA? | Marca
