The USDA announced that 42 million Americans dependent on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will not receive benefits on November 1, 2025, due to the ongoing government shutdown. SNAP, commonly known as food stamps, provides financial assistance to low-income families to purchase healthy food.
Despite warnings about potential funding lapses, the USDA confirmed that they cannot issue SNAP benefits next month because of the lack of appropriated funds for fiscal year 2026. States are unable to issue SNAP payments or be reimbursed during the shutdown.
The USDA emphasized that the best way to ensure SNAP continuity is to resolve the shutdown. Recipients are encouraged to utilize food banks and other aid programs while checking with their local state agencies for additional assistance options. Benefits issued in October will remain available for use, as they do not expire for a full year.
