Washington residents on SNAP will face a temporary disruption as the program pauses food stamp issuance for February, with just six days left in the month.
The state, which terms SNAP as the Basic Food Program, typically distributes food stamp payments between February 1 and February 20. Recipients receive payments based on the date they applied for benefits, as indicated in the approval letter sent to qualifying households.
Eligibility for SNAP in Washington hinges on meeting specific income criteria. Households must generally have a gross monthly income at or below 130% of the federal poverty level.
For instance, a household of one must have an income under $1,945 per month, while a household of three must not exceed $3,299 monthly, and a household of five has a limit of $4,652 per month.
Household Size Impacts SNAP Benefits
The maximum benefit amounts also vary according to household size. A household of one can receive up to $291, while larger households, such as one of five members, can receive a maximum of $1,155.
Households exceeding eight members can receive up to $1,751, with an additional $219 allowed for each extra person. These figures are based on recent cost-of-living adjustments for 2023-24.
Recipients access SNAP benefits through an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card, usable at participating grocery and convenience stores. Eligible purchases include meat, poultry, fish products, dairy items, bread, cereals, and other groceries.
According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, approximately 18% of Washington’s population, totaling 310,900 individuals, rely on food stamps.
This temporary halt in issuance underscores the program’s significance for thousands of families across the state, highlighting the impact of disruptions on vulnerable communities.
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