The Biden administration just announced a more than 25 percent increase in SNAP monthly benefits — the largest permanent increase in the program’s history.
The new maximum benefit for a family of four will rise to $835 a month, a 21 percent jump from pre-pandemic levels, according to the Food Research & Action Center. The average benefit will rise 27 percent, adjusted for inflation, according to news reports.
This is the result of re-evaluation of the Thrifty Food Plan, which is used to calculate the level of benefits. This assessment resulted in a method of calculation that more closely reflects what it costs for a typical family to put food on the table.
Beginning October 1, 2021, the average SNAP benefit — excluding temporary COVID-19 boosts in place — will increase by $36.24 per person, per month, or $1.19 per day.
Thanks to all who helped send messages to strengthen SNAP, the nation’s first line of defense against hunger. As we in the community know, this adjustment to provide SNAP households with meaningful benefits is long overdue.
We also are grateful to those with lived SNAP experience who shared their valuable input with USDA. We will send updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, please check out FRAC’s SNAP Benefit Adequacy web page for information and resources.
