SNAP changes set in as government shuts down. How could stamps in Kentucky be affected?

Changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, became effective as of Wednesday, Oct. 1.

These adjustments, which most notably include larger monthly benefits, come under the United States Department of Agriculture, or USDA, cost-of-living updates. The rollout of these updated benefits happens to coincide with the nationwide government shutdown and it has potential questions about what happens to SNAP benefits.

Here’s what we know.

What are the new SNAP benefits?

Because of changes in the cost of living, adjustments for SNAP allotments have been made.

Maximum allotments have been increased in comparison to last year’s SNAP benefits, as noted below.

• One-person household: $298 (a $6 increase from last year).

• Two-person household: $546 (a $10 increase from last year).

• Three-person household: $785 (a $17 increase from last year).

• Four-person household: $994 (a $19 increase from last year).

• Five-person household: $1,183 (a $25 increase from last year).

• Six-person household: $1,421 (a $31 increase from last year).

• Seven-person household: $1,571 (a $35 increase from last year).

• Eight-person household: $1,789 (a $33 increase from last year).

• Each additional person: an added $218 per additional person (a $2 decrease from last year).

Other changes to SNAP benefits include a shelter cap value increase and a homeless shelter deduction increase.

The eligibility requirements for SNAP benefits can be found within the USDA adjustment announcement.

Will the government shutdown affect SNAP benefits?

The government shutdown officially went into effect at 12:01 a.m. Oct. 1. No immediate changes in SNAP benefits are expected.

In the 2024 SNAP guidance, the USDA noted that “core programs of the nutrition safety net” will continue during a lapse in government as long as funding should persist, according to the AARP.

If the government shutdown lasts for an extended period, SNAP funding may run out, which would cause a delay or pause in program benefits. It’s estimated that there’s enough funding to last approximately a month, as SNAP benefits tend to be paid out a month in advance.

Should the shutdown last longer than a month, the USDA typically has carryover and reserve funds to cover benefits for a slightly longer time, although those are also limited.

Additionally, if food retailers’ Electronic Benefit Transfer licenses expire during the shutdown period, they wouldn’t be able to renew until the shutdown ends. This means the retailer wouldn’t be able to accept SNAP benefits until the government reopens.

Within a state level, SNAP offices should be able to continue processing new applications and benefit recertifications, but some functions may take longer.

How to apply for SNAP benefits

Those living in Kentucky can apply for SNAP benefits at kynect.ky.gov. Those applying will need to provide a valid ID, proof of residence, a social security number and proof of income.

After filling out the application, an interview is held to help determine eligibility. In most cases you should expect to hear back within 30 days after submitting your application.

Government shutdown 2025: Is the government shut down in 2025? Will mail, Social Security checks be delivered?

Courier-Post reporter Risha Inaganti contributed. Reach Marina Johnson at Marina.Johnson@courier-journal.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Will SNAP benefits be impacted by government shutdown? See affects in Kentucky