With the recent government shutdown ending and new federal laws taking effect, millions of Americans are confused about SNAP benefits (food stamps) in late 2025. Viral articles claim easier rules and higher payments starting November—but the truth involves stricter requirements for many. Here’s the accurate, up-to-date info as of November 18, 2025.
What Changed for SNAP in November 2025
The shutdown (October 1–November 13) disrupted November payments, but full benefits restored after Congress passed funding. Bigger shifts come from the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (signed July 2025), tightening rules nationwide.
Key updates:
- Stricter work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs, ages 18–64 with no kids).
- Reduced exemptions (e.g., parents exempt only if kids under 14, not 18).
- Tighter non-citizen eligibility—many lawfully present immigrants now ineligible.
- Full enforcement started November 1, applied at recertification or new applications.
Annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) happened October 1 (FY 2026)—small increases to max benefits and income limits.
Current SNAP Eligibility Rules
Basic requirements unchanged, but enforcement tougher:
- U.S. citizens or certain qualified non-citizens (many restrictions added 2025).
- Gross income ≤ 130% federal poverty level.
- Net income ≤ 100% after deductions.
- Assets under $3,000 (higher for elderly/disabled).
- ABAWDs: Must work/train/volunteer 80+ hours/month or limited to 3 months benefits in 3 years.
| Household Size | Max Gross Income (130% FPL) | Max Net Income (100% FPL) | Max Monthly Benefit (48 states) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,632 | $1,255 | $292 |
| 2 | $2,215 | $1,704 | $536 |
| 3 | $2,798 | $2,152 | $768 |
| 4 | $3,380 | $2,600 | $975 |
| Each +1 | +$583 | +$449 | +$244 |
(Higher in Alaska/Hawaii; updated Oct 1, 2025)
Work Requirements: Who Must Comply Now
ABAWD rules fully back November 1—no more pandemic waivers.
Exempt if:
- Under 18 or over 64
- Pregnant
- Physically/mentally unfit
- Caring for child under 14 or incapacitated person
- In drug/alcohol treatment
Non-exempt? Prove 80 hours/month or lose after 3 months.
November Payments After the Shutdown
- Most states issued full (or catching up on) full November benefits post-shutdown.
- No permanent cuts—temporary disruption only.
- December+ loads normally.
Check EBT balance via state app/hotline.
FAQs About SNAP Rules November 2025
Q: Did SNAP get easier or expand in November 2025?
A: No—rules got stricter due to new law. Many lose eligibility or face work mandates.
Q: Are work requirements new?
A: They’ve existed since 1990s but suspended during COVID; full enforcement restarted Nov 1, 2025.
Q: Can immigrants still get SNAP?
A: Many no longer qualify—refugees, asylees, parolees affected unless specific exemptions.
Q: Did benefits increase in November?
A: Small COLA increase applied October 1 (e.g., + ~2-3% avg); no big November jump.
Q: Where to check my status?
A: Use your state’s EBT portal/app or call local office. Official info at FNS.USDA.gov/SNAP.
Stay on Top of Your Benefits
SNAP helps over 41 million, but 2025 changes mean some lose access while others see minor boosts from COLA. If facing work rules or recertification, gather proof now—contact your local office or legal aid for help. Report household changes promptly to avoid overpayments. Check official sources today and share accurate info with family! (Word count: 642)