Image: US Dept of Ag

From the US Department of Agriculture - February 2, 2023

There are several changes that may affect SNAP household’s benefit amounts over the coming months. The temporary boost to SNAP benefits put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, known as emergency allotments, will end nationwide after the February 2023 issuance.

In addition, households that receive SNAP and Social Security benefits will see a decrease in their SNAP benefits because of the significant cost of living increase to Social Security benefits that took effect on Jan. 1, 2023. 

Why are emergency allotments ending?

SNAP emergency allotments were a temporary strategy authorized by Congress to help low-income individuals and families deal with the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 law recently passed by Congress ends emergency allotments after the February 2023 issuance. This means by March 2023, all SNAP households’ benefits will return to normal amounts, without the added supplement.

How much will my benefits change when emergency allotments end?

Emergency allotments allowed all SNAP households to receive an additional $95 in benefits or an additional benefit valued up to the maximum benefit for their household size, whichever value is greater. When emergency allotments end, you will return to your normal SNAP benefit amount which, depending on your household income, may be less than the maximum benefit for your household size. More information on how SNAP benefits are calculated can be found on our SNAP Eligibility webpage under “How much could I receive in SNAP benefits?”.


For more information, visit the Food and Nutrition Services Department of the Department of Agriculture site here.