The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), once known as food stamps, plays a vital role in helping millions of low- and no-income households across the United States access essential groceries.
As of fiscal year 2023, SNAP supported over 42.1 million people monthly—around 12.6% of the U.S. population.
In fiscal 2025, each recipient is expected to receive an average of $187 monthly, which breaks down to roughly $6.16 per day—critical support for families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
Payments
SNAP benefits are paid out monthly through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. However, the exact date those funds arrive varies from state to state.
Each state follows its own schedule for distributing benefits, and they use different methods to determine timing—some base it on the last digits of a case or Social Security number, while others follow alphabetical or geographic systems.
In large states like California and Florida, the distribution period can span several weeks. This helps manage the higher number of recipients. On the other hand, smaller states like Vermont or North Dakota often complete their distributions in just one or two days.
Because SNAP is federally funded but state-administered, it’s crucial for recipients to stay updated on their individual state’s process to avoid delays or confusion.
Access
EBT cards are automatically reloaded with the SNAP benefit amount on the scheduled day. These cards can be used at participating grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and even some online retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
In many states, benefits can now also be used for grocery delivery services—an essential option for recipients who may lack transportation or have mobility issues.
Dates
Here is a state-by-state breakdown of SNAP benefit distribution dates for April 2025:
State/Territory | April 2025 Distribution Dates |
---|---|
Alabama | April 4 to 23 |
Alaska | April 1 |
Arizona | April 1 to 13 |
Arkansas | April 4 to 13 |
California | April 1 to 10 |
Colorado | April 1 to 10 |
Connecticut | April 1 to 3 |
Delaware | April 2 to 23 |
District of Columbia | April 1 to 10 |
Florida | April 1 to 28 |
Georgia | April 5 to 23 |
Guam | April 1 to 10 |
Hawaii | April 3 to 5 |
Idaho | April 1 to 10 |
Illinois | April 1 to 20 |
Indiana | April 5 to 23 |
Iowa | April 1 to 10 |
Kansas | April 1 to 10 |
Kentucky | April 1 to 19 |
Louisiana | April 1 to 23 |
Maine | April 10 to 14 |
Maryland | April 4 to 23 |
Massachusetts | April 1 to 14 |
Michigan | April 3 to 21 |
Minnesota | April 4 to 13 |
Mississippi | April 4 to 21 |
Missouri | April 1 to 22 |
Montana | April 2 to 6 |
Nebraska | April 1 to 5 |
Nevada | April 1 to 10 |
New Hampshire | April 5 |
New Jersey | April 1 to 5 |
New Mexico | April 1 to 20 |
New York | April 1 to 9 |
North Carolina | April 3 to 21 |
North Dakota | April 1 |
Ohio | April 2 to 20 |
Oklahoma | April 1 to 10 |
Oregon | April 1 to 9 |
Pennsylvania | April 3 to 14 |
Puerto Rico | April 4 to 22 |
Rhode Island | April 1 |
South Carolina | April 1 to 19 |
South Dakota | April 10 |
Tennessee | April 1 to 20 |
Texas | April 1 to 28 |
Utah | April 5, 11, and 15 |
Virgin Islands | April 1 |
Vermont | April 1 |
Virginia | April 1 to 7 |
Washington | April 1 to 20 |
West Virginia | April 1 to 9 |
Wisconsin | April 1 to 15 |
Wyoming | April 1 to 4 |
Delays
If your SNAP benefits haven’t arrived by the expected date, don’t panic—here’s what to do. First, check your EBT balance through an ATM or the number on the back of your card. If the funds still haven’t posted, visit your state’s SNAP website for any updates or system delays.
Still no luck? Contact your local SNAP office to report the issue. It’s also wise to make sure your contact information is current with the office, as outdated info is a common cause of delays.
Changes
Several proposals could affect SNAP benefits in the coming months. One is a push to limit what types of food can be purchased using SNAP. Some lawmakers are advocating for restrictions on sugary drinks and processed snacks to encourage healthier eating.
On the flip side, others are calling for increased benefit amounts to address rising food costs and inflation.
There’s also an ongoing effort to expand the use of SNAP for online purchases, making the program more accessible for people without easy access to transportation or nearby grocery stores.
Any changes would be announced by the USDA or your state’s SNAP office, so keep an eye on official channels to stay informed.
FAQs
When will I get SNAP in April 2025?
It depends on your state’s schedule and your case details.
Can I use SNAP for online groceries?
Yes, in most states at Amazon, Walmart, and select retailers.
What if my benefits are delayed?
Check your EBT balance, contact SNAP office, or check updates.
How much is the average SNAP benefit?
In 2025, the average is $187 per person monthly.
Are SNAP food purchases changing?
Some lawmakers propose limits on junk food and sugary drinks.