For December 2024, SNAP benefits (commonly known as Food Stamps) will be issued between December 1 and December 28 across the United States. The exact date when recipients receive their benefits depends on their state or territory’s payment schedule. Some states simplify the process by issuing benefits on a single day, while others distribute payments across a range of dates.
Here’s what you need to know about SNAP benefits in December 2024, including payment schedules and maximum benefit amounts.
States with Single Payday
A few states and territories issue SNAP benefits to all recipients on December 1, 2024, eliminating the need for complex payment schedules:
- Alaska
- Vermont
- Rhode Island
- North Dakota
- United States Virgin Islands
Alaska’s Unique SNAP Payments
Alaska offers the highest SNAP benefits due to elevated costs of living and inflation. For example:
- Individual SNAP Benefits: $377 (city) to $586 (Rural 2 areas).
- Family of Eight: Up to $3,516 in Rural 2 areas.
Other states and territories follow the same maximum benefit amounts as the contiguous U.S., detailed below.
Maximum SNAP Benefits
Here are the maximum monthly benefit amounts for individuals and households in most states:
| Household Size | Maximum Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Additional Member | $220 each |
Payment Dates
If you live outside the states with single-day payments, your benefits will be issued according to your state’s schedule. Here’s the full list:
| State/Territory | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | December 4–23 |
| Arizona | December 1–13 |
| Arkansas | December 4–13 |
| California | December 1–10 |
| Colorado | December 1–10 |
| Connecticut | December 1–3 |
| Delaware | December 2–23 |
| Florida | December 1–28 |
| Georgia | December 5–23 |
| Hawaii | December 3–5 |
| Idaho | December 1–10 |
| Illinois | December 1–10 |
| Indiana | December 5–23 |
| Iowa | December 1–10 |
| Kansas | December 1–10 |
| Kentucky | December 1–19 |
| Louisiana | December 1–23 |
| Maine | December 10–14 |
| Maryland | December 4–23 |
| Massachusetts | December 1–14 |
| Michigan | December 3–21 |
| Minnesota | December 4–13 |
| Mississippi | December 4–21 |
| Missouri | December 1–22 |
| Montana | December 2–6 |
| Nebraska | December 1–5 |
| Nevada | December 1–10 |
| New Hampshire | December 5 |
| New Jersey | December 1–5 |
| New Mexico | December 1–20 |
| New York | December 1–9 |
| North Carolina | December 3–21 |
| Ohio | December 2–20 |
| Oklahoma | December 1–10 |
| Oregon | December 1–9 |
| Pennsylvania | First 10 business days |
| South Carolina | December 1–10 |
| South Dakota | December 10 |
| Tennessee | December 1–20 |
| Texas | December 1–28 |
| Utah | December 5, 11, 15 |
| Virginia | December 1–7 |
| Washington | December 1–20 |
| West Virginia | December 1–9 |
| Wisconsin | December 1–15 |
| Wyoming | December 1–4 |
| Guam | December 1–10 |
| Puerto Rico | December 4–22 |
| District of Columbia | December 1–10 |
Key Takeaways
Whether you’re in a state with a single payday or one with staggered payments, knowing your SNAP schedule ensures you can plan your December expenses effectively. Alaska provides the highest benefits due to its unique cost structure, but even in other states, SNAP benefits can make a big difference for families and individuals in need.
FAQs
When will SNAP benefits be issued in December 2024?
SNAP benefits will be issued between December 1 and December 28, 2024.
Which states pay SNAP benefits on December 1?
Alaska, Vermont, Rhode Island, North Dakota, and U.S. Virgin Islands.
What is the maximum SNAP benefit for an individual?
The maximum is $292 for most states and $586 in Alaska Rural 2.
How are SNAP payment dates decided?
Each state decides payment dates based on its distribution schedule.
Do SNAP benefit amounts vary by state?
Yes, amounts are higher in Alaska due to inflation and living costs.
