Decrease in SNAP Benefit Maximum Amounts in the State after COLA announcement by USDA

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are set to increase across most U.S. states and territories, including the 48 contiguous states, Alaska, the District of Columbia, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. However, Hawaii will experience a decrease in SNAP Benefit. Understanding these changes is vital for beneficiaries in Hawaii.

Revised Decrease in SNAP Benefit Amounts for Hawaii After 2025 COLA

Starting from October 1, 2024, a family of four in Hawaii will receive a maximum of $1,723 in SNAP benefits, which is $36 less than the previous amount of $1,759.

For smaller households:

  • Couples or 2-member families: Until September 30, 2024, they will receive up to $967. After that, the amount will decrease to $948, a $19 monthly reduction totaling $228 annually.
  • Single recipients: They will see a decrease from $527 to $517, a $10 monthly reduction, resulting in $120 less over a year.

Detailed SNAP Payment Amounts for Hawaii After 2025 COLA

Effective from October 1, 2024, the Decrease in SNAP Benefit amounts for Hawaii will be as follows:

Household SizeMonthly Benefit Amount
Single RecipientUp to $517 (a $10 reduction from $527)
2-Member FamiliesUp to $948 (a $19 reduction from $967)
3-Member FamiliesUp to $1,357
4-Member FamiliesUp to $1,723 (a $36 reduction from $1,759)
5-Member FamiliesUp to $2,046
6-Member FamiliesUp to $2,456
7-Member FamiliesUp to $2,714
8-Member FamiliesUp to $3,102
Additional MembersUp to $388 per additional member

These new benefit amounts will remain in effect through September 30, 2025.

Impacts of the Decrease in SNAP Benefit

The reduction in SNAP benefits in Hawaii will have several implications for recipients:

Financial Impact

  • Annual Losses: While the monthly reductions might appear minor, they add up significantly over time. For example, a single recipient will receive $120 less per year, and a family of four will lose $432 annually.
  • Budget Adjustments: Households may need to adjust their budgets, which could affect their ability to purchase necessary groceries.

Application Process Despite these reductions, eligible low-income individuals and families in Hawaii can still apply for SNAP benefits. The application process remains unchanged, ensuring continued support for those in need.

Reason for the Decrease in SNAP Benefit

The USDA has decided to reduce SNAP benefits in Hawaii following the 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). This adjustment aims to align benefits with changes in living costs but presents challenges for those who rely heavily on SNAP benefits.

Staying informed about these changes is essential for Hawaii’s SNAP recipients. Despite the reductions, SNAP continues to be a vital program that supports low-income families and individuals in meeting their nutritional needs.

FAQs

How much will a single recipient in Hawaii receive after the 2025 COLA?

Up to $517 will be given to a single person each month.

What will a family of four receive after the reduction?

A family of four will receive up to $1,723 per month.

When will the new SNAP amounts take effect?

The revised amounts will be implemented on October 1, 2024.

Why are Hawaii’s SNAP benefits decreasing?

The reduction is due to the USDA’s 2025 COLA adjustments, which are intended to reflect changes in the cost of living.

Leave a Comment