The $120 SNAP Benefits in September 2024 is a crucial program introduced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide extra assistance to low-income families during the summer months when children lose access to school meals.
This benefit is part of the Summer EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) Program and aims to help families purchase essential grocery items. The USDA expects this program to reach 21 million children across the U.S., including states, territories, and Tribal regions.
What Is the $120 SNAP Benefit Program?
The $120 SNAP Benefit Program is an extension of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It is specifically designed for summer months when school-aged children lose access to regular school meal programs, such as the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program.
Each eligible child will receive $120, which can be used to purchase essential food items like fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, and grains. However, certain items like hot foods, alcohol, tobacco, and non-food products are excluded from the benefit.
States Participating in the $120 SNAP Benefit Program
The program is available in 44 states and several territories and Tribal regions, including:
- American Samoa
- California
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- New York
- North Carolina
- Puerto Rico
- Virginia
- Washington
(For a complete list, refer to the USDA’s website).
Eligibility Criteria for $120 SNAP Benefits
To qualify for this benefit, families must meet specific eligibility requirements:
- Existing SNAP or TANF Recipients: Families already receiving SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) will automatically qualify for the $120 benefit.
- National School Lunch Program: Families with children who participate in the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program may also be eligible.
- Income Guidelines: Families must fall below 185% of the federal poverty line to qualify for these benefits.
Here’s a breakdown of the income limits:
| Household Size | Gross Annual Income | Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $27,861 | $2,322 |
| 2 | $37,814 | $3,152 |
| 3 | $47,767 | $3,981 |
| 4 | $57,720 | $4,810 |
| 5 | $67,673 | $5,640 |
| 6 | $77,626 | $6,469 |
| 7 | $87,579 | $7,299 |
| 8 | $97,532 | $8,128 |
| Additional member | + $9,953 | + $830 |
Children attending schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program, but whose families do not already receive SNAP, may need to apply separately for the Summer EBT benefits.
How to Apply for $120 SNAP Benefits
If your child is already enrolled in SNAP or TANF, you may not need to apply separately, as funds will be automatically loaded onto your existing EBT card. If your child isn’t automatically enrolled, you can apply via your state’s SNAP program or the USDA’s official website.
Make sure to provide accurate information regarding household income, child age, and participation in school meal programs to avoid application rejections.
Payment Dates for $120 SNAP Benefits
The exact payment dates for the $120 SNAP Benefits in September 2024 can vary from state to state. However, it is expected that payments will be issued between late August and early September 2024. Families should check their EBT accounts regularly to see when the funds are deposited.
Once the funds are loaded onto the EBT card, they must be used within 122 days. After this period, the funds will expire, and families will no longer have access to them.
Additional Facts About $120 SNAP Benefits in September 2024
- This program is estimated to help 70% of U.S. children who are eligible for free or reduced-price meals during the school year.
- The benefits are distributed via Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, similar to regular SNAP payments.
- The program is expected to continue annually, providing essential assistance during future summer breaks.
Table of Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | $120 Summer EBT Benefit |
| Month | September 2024 |
| Eligible Citizens | Low-income and moderate-income families |
| Amount per Child | $120 |
| Payment Method | EBT card |
| Application Deadline | September 3, 2024 |
| Expiration of Funds | 122 days after deposit |
| States and Territories Involved | 44 States, U.S. Territories, Tribes |
| Income Limit | 185% of federal poverty line |
| Official Website | USDA.gov |
Conclusion
The $120 SNAP Benefits in September 2024 are a lifeline for millions of low-income families in the U.S., ensuring that children continue to have access to nutritious meals during the summer months.
The program, managed by the USDA, is crucial in addressing food insecurity and will benefit millions of families across 44 states, territories, and Tribal areas.
For further information, it’s recommended to visit the USDA’s official website or check your state’s SNAP portal for specific payment dates and application processes.
FAQs
1. Who qualifies for the $120 SNAP Benefits in September 2024?
Families already receiving SNAP or TANF benefits, or those with children enrolled in free or reduced-price school meal programs, qualify for the benefit.
2. How will the $120 SNAP benefits be distributed?
The benefit will be loaded onto existing EBT cards, which can be used at approved grocery stores to purchase eligible items.
3. When will the $120 SNAP payments be made?
The payments are expected to be distributed between late August and early September 2024. However, payment dates can vary by state.
4. What items can be purchased with the $120 benefit?
Eligible food items include fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, grains, and non-alcoholic beverages. Hot foods, alcohol, and non-food items are not allowed.
5. What is the deadline for using the $120 benefit?
Beneficiaries must use the funds within 122 days of receiving them, or the amount will expire.
References
- USDA.gov
- Collin College News
- SD News
