The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has scheduled Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) payments to begin on March 1, 2025. While many states will start disbursing benefits on the first of the month, others have staggered schedules extending throughout March.
Maximum SNAP Benefits for March 2025
The highest SNAP benefit amounts are available in:
- Alaska: $588 per person
- Hawaii, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands: $376 per person
- 48 Contiguous States & Washington, D.C.: $292 per person (valid through September 30, 2025)
On average, individuals in the contiguous states receive about $199 per month. The next Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for SNAP benefits will take effect in October 2025.
March 2025 SNAP Payment Schedule by State
Each state has its own distribution timeline, and recipients can check below to see when their benefits will be loaded onto their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.
SNAP Payment Dates for the 48 Contiguous States & D.C.:
- Alabama: March 4-23
- Alaska: March 1
- Arizona: March 1-13
- Arkansas: March 4-13
- California: March 1-10
- Colorado: March 1-10
- Connecticut: March 1-3
- Delaware: March 2-23
- Florida: March 1-28
- Georgia: March 5-23
- Hawaii: March 3-5
- Idaho: March 1-10
- Illinois: March 1-10
- Indiana: March 5-23
- Iowa: March 1-10
- Kansas: March 1-10
- Kentucky: March 1-19
- Louisiana: March 1-23
- Maine: March 10-14
- Maryland: March 4-23
- Massachusetts: March 1-14
- Michigan: March 3-21
- Minnesota: March 4-13
- Mississippi: March 4-21
- Missouri: March 1-22
- Montana: March 2-6
- Nebraska: March 1-5
- Nevada: March 1-10
- New Hampshire: March 5
- New Jersey: March 1-5
- New Mexico: March 1-20
- New York: March 1-9
- North Carolina: March 3-21
- North Dakota: March 1
- Ohio: March 2-20
- Oklahoma: March 1-10
- Oregon: March 1-9
- Pennsylvania: First 10 business days of March
- Rhode Island: March 1
- South Carolina: March 1-10
- South Dakota: March 10
- Tennessee: March 1-20
- Texas: March 1-28
- Utah: March 15
- Vermont: March 1
- Virginia: March 1-7
- Washington: March 1-20
- West Virginia: March 1-9
- Wisconsin: March 1-15
- Wyoming: March 1-4
U.S. Territories & District of Columbia:
- Guam: March 1-10
- Puerto Rico: March 4-22
- U.S. Virgin Islands: March 1
- Washington, D.C.: March 1-10
Who Is Eligible for SNAP in March 2025?
SNAP benefits are designed for low-income individuals and families who meet specific financial requirements.
To qualify, households must meet:
- Gross income limit: At or below 130% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Example: For a family of three, the limit is $2,798 per month in 2025.
- Net income limit: After deductions, must be at or below 100% of the FPL.
- Asset limits: $2,750 for most households; $4,250 for households with an elderly or disabled member.
Additionally, Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) must meet work requirements, working at least 80 hours per month to continue receiving benefits beyond three months in a three-year period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How are SNAP benefit amounts calculated?
Your benefit amount depends on household size, income, and allowable deductions. The USDA subtracts 30% of a household’s net income from the maximum benefit amount for their household size to determine the final benefit.
Can I apply for SNAP now and still receive March benefits?
Yes, if you qualify for expedited benefits, you may receive SNAP in March. Processing times vary by state, but those approved late in the month may receive benefits retroactively.
Will there be a SNAP COLA increase in 2025?
No. The current benefit amounts will remain the same until September 30, 2025. The next COLA update will take effect in October 2025.
Can I use SNAP benefits to buy hot or prepared foods?
Generally, SNAP benefits cannot be used for hot or ready-to-eat foods. However, some states allow Restaurant Meals Programs (RMP) for elderly, disabled, and homeless recipients.
What should I do if my SNAP benefits are delayed?
If your benefits do not arrive on the expected date, check your state’s SNAP website or contact your local SNAP office to inquire about potential processing delays.
Final Thoughts
Knowing your SNAP payment date helps you budget effectively and plan grocery purchases. While March’s schedule follows standard processing times, recipients should stay aware of state-specific policies and potential eligibility updates. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or benefit amount, visit your state’s SNAP website or contact your local SNAP office for more information.