The USDA has finally released new guidance about when the updated SNAP rules will take effect. This includes new work requirements, changes to the Thrifty Food Plan, utility deduction updates, and future funding shifts that may affect state programs. If you receive SNAP benefits, these changes could impact you directly.
Thrifty Food Plan Changes
The Thrifty Food Plan (TFP) is the government’s official grocery list that determines how much SNAP benefits households receive. When it was revised in 2021, families saw about a 20% boost in benefits.
Under the new law, that type of increase won’t happen again. The TFP can no longer be re-evaluated in a way that increases costs, except for an annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) each October. That means SNAP benefits will continue to rise slightly each year with inflation, but the larger boost from 2021 won’t be repeated. The next possible re-evaluation is scheduled for October 1, 2027, but even then the rules prevent costs from increasing.
Utility Deduction Updates
The USDA has also changed how utility bills affect your SNAP benefits. Internet service is no longer counted as part of your shelter costs. These rules are already in effect. If you aren’t sure how this change impacts your household, you may want to review your latest notice or talk to your caseworker.
SNAP Work Requirements
Perhaps the most important change for families is the expansion of work requirements. These apply to adults between the ages of 18 and 65 who do not have dependents under the age of 14.
The changes include:
- Parents are now only exempt if they have a child under age 14.
- Exemptions for homeless veterans and young adults who aged out of foster care have been removed.
- New exemptions have been created for people defined as “Indian, Urban Indian, or California Indian” under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act.
These rules are already in effect for new applicants. For current participants, the new requirements will be applied when your case is recertified.
Fewer State Waivers Available
In the past, many states could request waivers for areas with high unemployment or limited job opportunities. The new law makes that much harder. States can now only qualify if:
- The unemployment rate is at or above 10%, or
- In Alaska and Hawaii, unemployment is at least 150% of the national average.
That means most SNAP recipients in work-eligible categories will need to meet the requirements, even if jobs are scarce in their area.
More SNAP Program Changes Coming Soon
Beyond the immediate adjustments, USDA’s guidance outlines future changes:
- The SNAP-Ed program, which provides nutrition education, has ended but states can use remaining funds through the following fiscal year.
- Starting in 2027, states will receive less federal funding for SNAP administrative costs.
- Beginning in 2028, states may have to share the cost of SNAP benefits. If their payment error rates are high, they could be required to contribute up to 15% of the funding.
Relief Recap
SNAP is going through major shifts, and these changes will affect families in different ways. Work requirements are expanding, utility deductions are shrinking, and the Thrifty Food Plan will only adjust with inflation going forward. While benefits will still rise slightly each year, the days of larger boosts are behind us for now.
We know these changes may feel overwhelming, but we’ll continue to break them down and explain what they mean for you. Keep checking back with Low Income Relief for the latest updates and resources to help you make the most of your benefits.