The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced updated Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) maximum benefit amounts for 2025.
These new amounts reflect the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) intended to help beneficiaries keep up with inflation.
Though the COLA increase is relatively small, it brings modest adjustments to SNAP payments for households across the country. Here’s an in-depth look at the estimated average monthly payments and the updated maximum benefit amounts for 2025.
Estimated Average SNAP Payments for 2025
Based on data from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, estimated average monthly SNAP payments for households across the 48 contiguous states provide a useful insight into what families can expect in 2025. Keep in mind these averages reflect typical payments after accounting for household income, not the maximum possible benefits.
| Household Size | Average Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $199 |
| 2 People | $364 |
| 3 People | $594 |
| 4 People | $726 |
| 5 People | $845 |
| 6 People | $1,018 |
| 7 People | $1,116 |
| 8 People | $1,317 |
While actual payments vary based on income and expenses, these averages offer a useful guide. Hawaii, however, saw a reduction, unlike most other states, reflecting differences in state-level cost adjustments.
SNAP Maximum Benefit Amounts for 2025 After COLA
With the COLA increase, maximum SNAP benefit amounts for 2025 have risen slightly for most household sizes. Here’s a breakdown of the new maximum monthly benefits by household size for those in the contiguous U.S.:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit (2025) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $292 |
| 2 People | $536 |
| 3 People | $768 |
| 4 People | $975 |
| 5 People | $1,158 |
| 6 People | $1,390 |
| 7 People | $1,536 |
| 8 People | $1,756 |
| Additional Member | $220 each |
For a single person, the maximum benefit rose by only $1, now totaling $292 per month. Larger households see similar minor increases, such as a two-person household rising to $536 (up from $535), while a household of four will see an increase to $975, up just $2 from last year. Although the increase is modest, any rise can be helpful for recipients facing high food prices and other inflationary pressures.
Understanding SNAP COLA Adjustments
Each year, the USDA adjusts SNAP benefits based on the previous year’s average inflation rate, aiming to align benefits with rising costs. The 2025 adjustment reflects a relatively modest 2.5% increase, consistent with recent trends.
While the increase may not seem substantial, it’s designed to give recipients at least a small boost in purchasing power as prices for essentials continue to rise.
It’s important to note that the actual amount each household receives depends on both household income and allowable expenses, so not all households will receive the maximum amount.
Additional Considerations for SNAP Recipients
For SNAP recipients, understanding how COLA adjustments impact benefits can help with budgeting. The updated amounts are especially significant for larger families who may face higher food costs. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
- Household Income and SNAP Benefits: SNAP benefits are calculated based on income, so the amount each family receives can be lower than the maximum benefit if household income exceeds specific thresholds.
- Annual Adjustment: SNAP benefits are adjusted annually based on inflation. The adjustment helps ensure benefits keep pace with increased living costs.
- Additional State-Specific Support: Some states offer supplementary benefits to SNAP recipients, so recipients may want to check with their state agencies for more details on available assistance.
The 2025 SNAP COLA adjustment provides a small but potentially helpful increase for millions of low-income households across the U.S.
With average monthly payments estimated between $199 for a single-person household and $1,317 for an eight-member household, these updated benefits aim to help recipients maintain a basic level of food security amid rising costs. For most households, however, actual payments will vary based on individual financial situations.
