Food Stamps Increase 25% for SNAP recipients. The USDA has approved a 25% increase to food stamp benefits throughout the states. This is the largest food stamps increase in the history of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
On this development, Food Stamp recipients can expect to receive an average increase of $36 per person to their SNAP EBT benefits. This update will go into effect on October 1, 2021.
Furthermore, SNAP recipients are receiving a 15% increase in their monthly benefits as part of the COVID-19 Pandemic Relief Package. However, the 15% increase in food stamp benefits was set to expire on September 30, 2021. The increase in SNAP benefits on October 1st will not only ensure that the 15% increase is maintained, but increased.
Food Stamp Program Changes for 2021
The recent increase in SNAP EBT benefits comes as a result of the USDA’s reevaluation of the Thrifty Food Plan (TFP). The Biden administration’s decision to adjust the Thrifty Food Plan is based on what currently takes to afford nutritious food.
The changes to the plan are stated to help reduce hunger, improve nutrition and lead to better overall health.
What is the Thrifty Food Plan?
The Thrifty Food Plan is one of four food plans that the USDA develops to estimate the cost of a healthy, balanced diet on a lower-cost price point.
The changes to the Thrifty Food Plan take into account the current food prices, what Americans typically eat, dietary guidance, and the nutrients in food items. For example, the updated Thrifty Food Plan includes more fish and red and orange vegetables.
SEE ALSO: P-EBT Benefits For 2020-2021 School Year
The revised TFP represents the cost of a practical, nutritious, cost-effective diet for a family of four. This includes an adult male, adult female, and two kids between the ages of 6-8 and 9-11.
Food stamp benefits are impacted by changes to the Thrifty Food Plan because it determines the maximum SNAP allotment benefit amount for household size.
Food Stamps Increase in October 2021
The increased food assistance will be available to all 42 million SNAP EBT Cardholders beginning on October 1, 2021.
The average monthly food stamps recipient can expect their benefits to rise from $121 to $157 per person.
How long will the increase in benefits last?
Unlike the 15% increase in food stamps that was approved from January to September during the COVID-19 pandemic, the 25% increase in food stamps for 2021 is permanent.
This means that you will receive this benefit increase indefinitely – as long as you continue to qualify for SNAP EBT benefits.
Importance of the SNAP Benefit Increase
According to the Urban Institute, the average cost of a meal today is $2.41. That is 22% higher than maximum food stamp benefits. This means that the maximum benefit does not cover a modestly priced meal in 96% of the United States.
The USDA reports that nearly 9 in 10 SNAP participants face issues purchasing households with nutritious food due to cost. Additionally, nearly 90% of food stamp recipients say that their benefits run out before the end of the month.
The revision to the Thrifty Food Plan and Food Stamps Program is an important step towards improving nutrition and ending hunger.
Check out this article for you to know how much extra food stamps you can expect to receive on your EBT Card each month.
