Significant shifts are coming to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) as we move into next month. These updates, driven by the implementation of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBB) Act signed in 2025 and annual federal cost-of-living adjustments, represent a major reset for millions of Americans. While some beneficiaries will see a modest increase in their monthly allotment, others face stricter eligibility hurdles. Understanding these changes is crucial for families who rely on this assistance to maintain food security.
Expanded Work Requirements for Adults
One of the most impactful changes starting next month involves the expansion of work mandates. Previously, strict work requirements primarily targeted “Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents” (ABAWDs) up to age 54. Under the new federal guidelines, this age bracket has been extended to include adults aged 18 to 64. Individuals in this group must now document at least 80 hours of work, approved job training, or volunteer service per month to remain eligible.
Failure to meet these requirements can lead to a “time limit” penalty, where individuals may only receive benefits for three months within a three-year window. Many states are officially resetting their 36-month tracking clocks next month, meaning the countdown for non-compliant recipients begins immediately.
Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) for 2026
On a more positive note, the USDA has finalized the Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) for the 2026 fiscal cycle. These adjustments are designed to help benefits keep pace with the rising price of groceries and inflation. For many households, this will result in a slight increase in the maximum monthly allotment. For example, a family of four in the 48 contiguous states can now receive a maximum of $994 per month.
The following table outlines the updated maximum monthly allotments based on household size for the current period:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Allotment (48 States & D.C.) |
| 1 Person | $298 |
| 2 People | $546 |
| 3 People | $785 |
| 4 People | $994 |
| 5 People | $1,183 |
| 6 People | $1,421 |
| 7 People | $1,571 |
| 8 People | $1,789 |
| Each Additional Member | +$218 |
New State-Level Food Purchase Restrictions
Recipients in several states will also encounter new “Healthy Food Waivers” that limit what can be purchased with an EBT card. As part of a broader national initiative to improve public health outcomes, several states—including Texas, Florida, and Idaho—have received federal approval to block the purchase of “non-nutritious” items. Starting next month, shoppers in these areas may find that items like soda, energy drinks, and certain candies are automatically declined at the register. These systems are being integrated directly into retailer point-of-sale software to ensure compliance without requiring manual intervention by cashiers.
Changes to Income Deductions and Shelter Allowances
The way SNAP benefits are calculated is also undergoing a technical shift. New rules allow for a broader “Standard Utility Allowance,” which now officially includes home internet costs as a deductible utility in many jurisdictions. Since internet access is increasingly viewed as a necessity for job hunting and education, this change may help some families qualify for a higher monthly benefit by lowering their “countable” net income. Conversely, some states are tightening shelter caps, so it is vital for recipients to report any changes in rent or utility costs to their local agency immediately to ensure their calculation remains accurate.
Impact on Veterans and Homeless Populations
The recent legislative overhaul has also modified exemptions for historically protected groups. While some veterans and individuals experiencing homelessness were previously granted automatic waivers from work requirements, the new rules require more specific documentation of status. For instance, veterans must now demonstrate they are either working, in a training program, or qualify for a medical disability exemption to bypass the 80-hour monthly mandate. This shift emphasizes “employment-first” policies, though advocacy groups have raised concerns about the administrative burden this places on vulnerable populations.
What Recipients Need to Do Now
To avoid a disruption in benefits, recipients should prioritize communication with their local Department of Human Services or Social Services office. If you fall within the 18–64 age range and do not have children under 14 in your household, you must ensure your work hours are being reported correctly. Additionally, if you have recently moved or seen an increase in your utility bills, providing updated receipts could potentially increase your allotment under the new deduction rules.
FAQs
Q1 Can I still buy snack foods with my SNAP benefits?
In most states, yes. However, if you live in a state with an approved “Healthy Foods Waiver” (such as Louisiana, Texas, or Iowa), certain items like soda and candy may be restricted starting next month.
Q2 What happens if I cannot find 80 hours of work per month?
You can meet the requirement through a combination of part-time work, volunteering at a non-profit, or participating in a state-approved SNAP Employment and Training (E&T) program.
Q3 Do these new rules apply to people on Social Security Disability?
Generally, no. Individuals who are medically certified as unable to work or those receiving disability benefits (SSI/SSDI) are typically exempt from the expanded work requirements.
