SNAP Benefits May Be Delayed in November: What You Need to Know

A new warning from the USDA has confirmed what many feared—SNAP benefits could be delayed in November due to the ongoing government shutdown. If Congress doesn’t reach a funding agreement soon, more than 42 million Americans could see disruptions in their food assistance.

This news isn’t just speculation. In a letter dated October 10, the USDA advised state agencies to stop transmitting their November SNAP data to EBT vendors “until further notice.” That pause in processing means states cannot issue November payments unless Congress reopens the government or the USDA releases new guidance.

Why This Is Happening

The federal government entered a shutdown on October 1 after lawmakers failed to pass a budget for the new fiscal year. When that happens, federal agencies—including those responsible for food assistance—are only allowed to operate on leftover funds. Those funds are now running out.

Although SNAP is considered a mandatory entitlement program, that doesn’t mean it receives automatic funding. Without new appropriations, the USDA cannot legally authorize full benefit payments for November.

What This Means for You

If you’ve already received your October SNAP benefits, you’re safe for now. The USDA confirmed there was enough funding to cover October payments. Even if your benefits are normally deposited later in the month, they should still arrive as scheduled.

But November is another story. States have been told to pause their usual process of transmitting payment files to EBT vendors. Without those files, benefits can’t be loaded onto your card. That could mean delays in your November payment—or no payment at all—until the shutdown is resolved.

It’s also possible that even if the shutdown ends quickly, the processing lag may cause benefits to arrive late. States need time to send data, vendors need time to prepare, and every step takes longer when systems are paused.

New Work Requirements Start in November, Too

Unfortunately, this situation is hitting at the same time that new SNAP work requirements are set to take effect. As of November 1, most able-bodied adults ages 18–54 without dependents must work, volunteer, or participate in job training for at least 80 hours per month to stay eligible.

Previously, people with children under 18 were exempt from these requirements, but that age limit has dropped to 14. Some groups that were previously exempt—including certain asylum seekers and survivors of human trafficking—may also lose benefits if their states haven’t updated their eligibility systems.

If you’re disabled or over age 65, you should remain exempt. However, if you’re not receiving formal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you may need a doctor’s letter or similar documentation to prove your exemption.

What You Can Do Right Now

This is a deeply uncertain time, but there are a few steps you can take to protect yourself and your household:

• Use your current benefits wisely. If you have an EBT balance, focus on shelf-stable items like beans, rice, pasta, and canned goods. Try to stretch your supply in case payments are delayed.
• Check your EBT balance often. Watch closely in early November to confirm whether your next deposit arrives.
• Sign up for alerts. Many state SNAP agencies offer text or email alerts about payment schedules and updates.
• Look up local food resources. Churches, food pantries, and community organizations often provide support. Don’t wait—resources will likely be overwhelmed if SNAP is disrupted.
• Keep all paperwork. Save any letters, notices, or benefit statements you receive. If you need to appeal or reapply later, documentation will be important.
• Consider volunteering. If you’re subject to work requirements and can’t find paid work, volunteering may count toward the required hours.

We also recommend checking our Double Up list if you’re in a state that offers dollar-for-dollar matches on fruits and vegetables. This can be a great way to stretch your SNAP benefits further.

What About State Differences?

Although the USDA’s instructions apply nationwide, the impact may look different depending on where you live. Some states issue benefits on a delay, meaning you might receive October’s payment in November. That could offer a short reprieve, but payments beyond that will still be at risk.

We’re tracking SNAP updates for all 50 states and will publish state-by-state guidance on our EBT page as it becomes available. If your state has announced a plan or shared new details, we’ll include that in our coverage.

Relief Recap

If you receive SNAP, your October benefits are still expected to arrive. But November’s payment is in jeopardy unless the government shutdown ends soon. The USDA has paused the usual process of issuing payments, and states have been ordered to stop transmitting data for November benefits. That could mean serious delays—or missed payments—at a time when families are already struggling.

Now is the time to prepare. Check your EBT balance, connect with local food banks, and sign up for alerts from your state SNAP office. We’ll continue monitoring the situation and posting updates at LowIncomeRelief.com to help you stay informed and prepared.