Will SNAP benefits continue during government shutdown 2025? What to know

After legislators failed to agree on a budget and the government shut down Oct. 1, the first thing on many people's minds is the status of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.

SNAP "provides food benefits to low-income families to supplement their grocery budget," the U.S. Department of Agricultural's SNAP website says.

A special message at the top of the website Oct. 1 said the website will not be updated during the shutdown and information may not be up to date.

"Transactions submitted via this website may not be processed and inquiries may not be responded to until appropriations are enacted," the website says.

But will SNAP recipients still get their benefits?

Will SNAP benefits continue during government shutdown?

Yes, according to Rep. Brittany Petterson, D-Colorado. At least for the month of October.

"Recipients should expect to receive their monthly allotment and retailers will continue to accept SNAP benefits," Petterson's website says.

That could change if the shutdown lasts over a month.

"If a shutdown extends beyond mid-October, USDA could technically tap its contingency reserve funding to cover SNAP costs," nonprofit Food Research & Action Center's website says. "Under the prior administration, this reserve stood at $6 billion, but it is unclear how much remains available or whether the current administration would choose to use it."

Another concern is the delay or complete loss of November benefits.

"Each state operates on its own internal processing schedule to ensure the timely issuance of benefits," the FRAC website says. "If a state misses its deadline to begin that process, delays are almost inevitable, leaving households without access to the food assistance they rely on."

Shannon Marvel McNaught reports on southern Delaware and beyond. Reach her at [email protected] or on Facebook.