by Washington, D.C. — Millions of Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are experiencing delays and reductions in benefits as the federal government shutdown enters its 37th day—the longest in U.S. history. Despite the disruptions, SNAP payments have started reaching recipients in several states.
Why SNAP Benefits Are Delayed
The shutdown began after Democrats and Republicans failed to reach an agreement on a government funding bill. Democrats have pushed to extend expiring health care tax credits and restore prior Medicaid cuts, proposals that Republicans have rejected.
Because the SNAP program’s regular appropriations expired in October, funding has been severely disrupted. Initially, the Trump administration announced that benefits would be frozen, citing legal limitations on using contingency funds for standard payments.
Recent court rulings in Rhode Island and Massachusetts ordered the federal government to continue partially funding SNAP using emergency funds. A Thursday ruling directed the administration to pay SNAP benefits in full, though the timing and source of full payments remain uncertain.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt acknowledged the delays, stating that recipients “need to understand it’s going to take some time to receive this money.”
How SNAP Payments Are Distributed
SNAP benefits are loaded onto Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which function like debit cards at authorized grocery stores and markets. While the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) funds the program, each state handles distribution.
Monthly, the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service transfers funds electronically to state EBT systems. States cannot access these funds until Congress approves the necessary funding. After approval, states request the amount needed for monthly payments.
Distribution schedules differ by state. Smaller states, such as Alaska, often issue all payments on one day, whereas larger states, like California, stagger payments throughout the month based on recipient case numbers.
States That Have Paid SNAP Benefits
As of November 7, 2025, the following states have confirmed that SNAP benefits have been distributed:
- Alaska
- California
- Illinois
- Louisiana
- Nevada
- Oregon
- Vermont
- Wisconsin
Recipients in other states are still awaiting payment as funding approvals are finalized.
What This Means for SNAP Recipients
Millions of Americans depend on SNAP for daily meals, and any delay can have serious consequences. Authorities are urging recipients to monitor their EBT accounts and stay in touch with state agencies for updates on payment schedules.
Have you or someone you know been affected by delayed SNAP benefits? Share your experiences and tips for navigating this period in the comments below.
