SNAP recipients are facing confusion again as the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently instructed states to “immediately rescind” any measures that provided full food assistance benefits. This all comes after a series of court decisions shifted the landscape several times—initially directing states to issue partial benefits, then increasing them, and ultimately allowing for full benefits. Just hours after some states processed full SNAP payments, the Supreme Court intervened Friday night, agreeing to a request from the Trump administration to pause this last decision temporarily.
On Saturday, the USDA issued a warning to local SNAP directors, stating that failure to revert to previous funding levels could result in the loss of federal cost-sharing and potential financial liability for the states.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers responded to the USDA’s order by firmly stating, “The answer is simply ‘No.'” He pointed out that the state lacks the funds to reimburse retailers for groceries sold to SNAP recipients due to the U.S. Treasury’s refusal to process transactions to fill SNAP EBT cards. This legal situation has been echoed by 26 states in a court filing.
These states cautioned that the financial shortfall could leave vendors unpaid and may lead to significant legal claims—potentially hundreds of millions of dollars in restitution claims, according to their filings in the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals.
The USDA mentioned in a court filing that states rushed into providing full SNAP benefits following last week’s ruling. They didn’t immediately respond to requests for further information.
Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing in the Senate to find a resolution to reopen the government, but until then, SNAP recipients might be left without clarity on their funding.
Unsure About SNAP Benefits?
Several states have confirmed that benefits distributed on Friday remain available to recipients.
In Colorado, Governor Jared Polis mentioned that about 32,000 residents received their full SNAP benefits before the Supreme Court’s pause and intends for those funds to remain unaffected. He added that some individuals will still get partial benefits that are reduced by 35% as they await further assistance.
Illinois also reported that partial benefits are being distributed to SNAP customers.
In Oregon and Washington, officials stated that full benefit amounts will be released and not retracted, allowing recipients to continue using their funds as expected. Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont confirmed that the full amount was processed into SNAP EBT cards, with state funds contributing to this support.
New Jersey officials are keeping tabs on the situation and advising SNAP beneficiaries to check their EBT balances to stay informed.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey also remarked that while the state aims to assist SNAP recipients, those already credited on EBT cards can use them for food purchases. He emphasized that if the Trump administration tries to reclaim the funds, the state would be ready for a legal battle.
In Hawaii, some recipients got their full benefits on Friday, and health officials noted that there haven’t been widespread issues with EBT transactions. They’re closely monitoring the situation and expect the Hawaii Emergency Food Assistance Program funds to be available soon.
Regarding Michigan, officials shared that any November benefits not yet issued are now suspended pending further court or USDA action. In California, some residents may face delays in their benefits post-Supreme Court order.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul began distributing November SNAP benefits, although it’s unclear how many recipients received all or part of those benefits. Governor Wes Moore from Maryland announced that the supplemental benefits would be set at 50% of usual amounts, with payments starting Tuesday.
“We’ve received four different guidance actions in the last six days,” Moore mentioned in a CBS interview, expressing frustration over the administration’s inconsistent directives, which he saw as a form of “intentional chaos.”
In Ohio, similar delays in SNAP benefits were noted, with hopes of full payments by the upcoming Monday.
If you’re uncertain about your SNAP benefits, it’s best to visit the online portal or contact your local SNAP program for the latest updates.
