Millions of low-income households across the U.S. will receive slightly larger Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments beginning October 1, 2025, as part of the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
Although modest, this boost reflects higher food costs nationwide and ensures SNAP keeps pace with inflation. A family of four in the contiguous 48 states will now receive $994 per month, up from $975.
SNAP Benefits COLA Increase 2026: Overview
| Agency | U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) |
| Program | Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) |
| COLA Increase Effective | October 1, 2025 |
| 2026 Adjustment Rate | + 1.9 to 2.0 percent (average) |
| Average 4-Person Benefit | $994 per month (48 states and D.C.) |
| Policy Basis | Consumer Price Index for Food at Home (CPI-F) |
Updated Benefit Levels for 2026
| Household Size | 48 States & D.C. | Alaska (High-Cost Area) | Hawaii |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $291 | $374 | $334 |
| 2 People | $535 | $686 | $611 |
| 3 People | $766 | $982 | $874 |
| 4 People | $994 | $1,273 | $1,132 |
| Each Additional Person | + $247 | + $317 | + $281 |
(Sources: USDA FNS FY 2026 Allotment Schedule)
Higher Income Limits Open the Door for More Families
The monthly gross income limit for a four-person household in most states has increased from $3,380 to $3,483, while the net income limit rose from $2,600 to $2,680.
and territories with higher living costs – such as Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands – have proportionally larger thresholds to reflect regional price differences.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit (48 States & D.C.) | Net Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,580 | $1,215 |
| 2 | $2,137 | $1,644 |
| 3 | $2,694 | $2,072 |
| 4 | $3,483 | $2,680 |
| Each Additional Person | + $789 | + $607 |
Standard Deductions and Expense Changes
Several deductions that determine household eligibility have also been updated:
| Deduction Type | 2025 Amount | 2026 Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Deduction (4-Person HH) | $217 | $223 | Applied to most households |
| Maximum Housing Deduction (48 States) | $721 | $744 | Higher for Alaska ($1,189) |
| Homeless Shelter Deduction | $179 | $198.99 | New monthly cap |
| Utility Allowance (Non-Elderly/Non-Disabled) | Eliminated | — | Removal may lower benefits for some families |
These updates aim to balance eligibility expansion with fiscal sustainability under the 2025 Farm Bill amendments.
Work Requirements Expand in 2026
Beginning in 2025 and continuing into 2026, new work rules apply to Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs):
- Age range: Now includes individuals aged 55 to 64 (previously up to 54).
- Requirement: Work or participate in training at least 20 hours per week.
- Duration limit: Without meeting requirements, benefits end after 3 months within a 3-year period.
- Parental provision: Parents of children aged 14 and over must comply; minors continue receiving benefits even if parents lose eligibility.
The USDA estimates these changes could affect 1.2 million people nationwide, including some veterans, homeless individuals, and former foster youth.
Economic Impact
While the average increase of $19 per month for a family of four is relatively small, it translates to $228 more per year in grocery purchasing power per household. That means billions in additional food spending flowing to local retailers and farmers.
Still, experts warn that higher utility and housing costs could outpace the COLA benefit for many low-income families.
“SNAP continues to be a critical tool for nutrition security,” said a USDA spokesperson. “But we recognize that even with COLA adjustments, many households still struggle with rising food prices.”
FAQs
When does the new SNAP benefit take effect?
October 1, 2025 for all states and territories.
Will I automatically receive the increase?
Yes. No action is required if you are already receiving benefits.
Can I re-apply if my income rose slightly?
Yes. The higher income limits may make you eligible again.
Do work rules apply to everyone?
No. Exemptions exist for those with disabilities, caregivers of young children, and seniors.
Where can I check my state’s allotment and payment schedule?
Visit www.fns.usda.gov/snap for updated state-by-state details.
Final Words
The 2026 SNAP COLA increase brings welcome relief for millions of families facing stubborn food inflation. Though the boost is modest, expanded income limits and higher deductions offer a lifeline for those on tight budgets. At the same time, new work requirements mean some adults will need to re-verify their eligibility to maintain benefits.
For now, one thing is certain — America’s food safety net remains essential as households continue to battle rising prices at the checkout lane.
