1. Increased Benefits via 2.8% COLA
Starting January 1, 2026, most households will see a slight bump in their monthly allotments due to a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This increase is designed to help families keep up with the rising cost of groceries.
| Household Size | Max Monthly Benefit (48 States & DC) | Increase from 2025 |
| 1 Person | $298 | +$6 |
| 2 People | $546 | +$10 |
| 4 People | $994 | +$19 |
Note: Benefits vary in Alaska ($1,285–$1,995), Hawaii ($1,689), and US Territories.
2. Expanded Work Requirements (Ages 18–64)
The OBBA has significantly tightened work mandates for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs).
- The New Age Cap: Previously, work requirements applied to those up to age 54. Starting March 1, 2026, individuals aged 18 to 64 must document at least 80 hours per month of work, training, or volunteering.
- Exemptions Scrapped: Many previous exemptions for veterans, unhoused individuals, and young adults aging out of foster care have been removed.
- The 3-Month Rule: Those who fail to meet the 80-hour requirement can only receive SNAP for 3 months within a 3-year period.
3. The “Junk Food” Ban in 18 States
In coordination with the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) initiative, the USDA has approved waivers for at least 12 states (expected to reach 18 by mid-2026) to restrict what can be purchased.
- Prohibited Items: Depending on the state, SNAP funds can no longer be used for soda, candy, energy drinks, and ultra-processed desserts.
- Participating States: States like Indiana, Iowa, Utah, Nebraska, and West Virginia are aiming for implementation as early as January 1, 2026. Florida’s restrictions are set to begin on April 20, 2026.
4. Internet Costs Included in Utility Allowances
A helpful change for low-income households involves the Standard Utility Allowance (SUA). State agencies can now include internet costs when calculating a household’s shelter expenses.
- Why it matters: Higher utility deductions can lower your “countable income,” which may lead to a higher monthly SNAP benefit for families struggling with high housing and connectivity costs.
5. Shift in Administrative Costs to States
A major structural change will affect state budgets starting in October 2026.
- The Split: Currently, the federal government and states split administrative costs 50/50.
- The New Rule: States will soon be responsible for 75% of administrative expenses (staffing, fraud prevention, and system maintenance).
- The Risk: Experts warn this could lead to longer processing times or reduced outreach efforts as state budgets are stretched thin.
Quick Eligibility Check for 2026
- Gross Income Limit: 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (e.g., $3,483/month for a family of 4).
- Asset Limits: Remain at $3,000 for most households and $4,500 for those with a disabled or elderly member (60+).
- Application: Most states will offer a 100% online application process starting in January 2026.