Recent legislative shifts, specifically the passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” alongside new federal authorizations, are bringing the most significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in its history. Whether you are a long-time recipient or a new applicant, here is what these changes mean for your grocery budget and eligibility.
Expanded Work Requirements for Older Adults and Caregivers
The age range for “Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents” (ABAWD) has increased. If you are between the ages of 55 and 64, you are now required to document at least 20 hours of work, volunteering, or job training per week to keep your benefits. Additionally, the rules for caregivers have tightened: previously, living with a child under 18 could grant an exemption, but you now only qualify for a caregiving exemption if the youngest child in your home is under age 14 under the new SNAP Changes.
New Restrictions on “Unhealthy” Purchases in Some States
Depending on where you live, your EBT card may no longer work for certain items. Under new federal waivers, states like Idaho, Oklahoma, and Louisiana have begun banning the purchase of soda, candy, and energy drinks with SNAP benefits. Other states with approved waivers are expected to roll out similar nutritional restrictions throughout 2026.
2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA)
Starting October 1, 2025, most households will see a slight increase in their maximum monthly allotments to account for inflation. For a family of four in the 48 contiguous states, the maximum benefit is now $994. However, those in Hawaii will see a decrease in their maximum allotment to 1,689.
Permanent Online Grocery Shopping
The convenience of using SNAP for online delivery is becoming a permanent fixture. New changes to legislation aim to convert the 2019 pilot program into a permanent feature, encouraging retailers to invest more in online infrastructure. This change is designed to help working families and those in rural areas or “food deserts” access groceries more easily.
Eligibility Cuts for Immigrants and “Cost-Neutral” Benefits
The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” has eliminated SNAP eligibility for lawfully residing humanitarian immigrants, such as refugees and asylum-seekers. Furthermore, a new “cost neutrality” requirement for the Thrifty Food Plan means the USDA cannot easily increase benefit levels to match rising food costs outside of standard inflation adjustments. Experts warn this may widen the gap between benefits and the actual cost of a meal, which already falls short in 99% of U.S. counties.
Rising Scams and the Need for Better Security
There is an increasing threat of “skimming” scams, where thieves place illegal devices on store card readers to steal your EBT card data and PIN. To protect your benefits, the sources recommend:
- Changing your PIN once a month, right before your benefits are deposited.
- Checking the card reader for loose or wiggling parts before swiping.
- Checking your balance regularly via official apps to spot unauthorized charges immediately.
What should you do next? If your benefits are delayed or denied due to these new rules, reach out to your local SNAP agency immediately. You have the right to appeal a decision within 90 days if you believe a rule was incorrectly applied to your household
What is NOT covered in SNAP CHANGES
According to guidelines for the SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) program, which typically follows SNAP standards, the following items cannot be purchased:
Hot Foods: Prepared meals meant to be eaten immediately are generally prohibited. (Note: Some eligible elderly, disabled, or unhoused individuals may be exempt from this through the Restaurant Meals Program in specific states).
Pet Foods: Food for animals is not covered.
Cleaning and Household Supplies: Items such as paper towels, soap, or detergents are ineligible.
Personal Hygiene Items: This includes products like toothpaste, shampoo, and other grooming supplies.
Medicine: Over-the-counter and prescription medications cannot be bought with these benefits.
Loss of Eligibility for Specific Groups
While not a “purchase restriction” in the traditional sense, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” has effectively blocked certain individuals from making any purchases by eliminating their eligibility for the program entirely.
Humanitarian Immigrants: Lawfully residing refugees, asylum-seekers, and survivors of human trafficking, who were previously eligible, will lose access to SNAP benefits in 2026.
Older Adults and Caregivers: Those between the ages of 55 and 64, as well as caregivers for children aged 14 to 17, who cannot meet new, stricter work requirements (20 hours per week) may lose their benefits after three months, rendering them unable to purchase food via SNAP.
