Marina
Beginning October 1, 2025, SNAP benefits (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) in Florida received a modest but important increase under the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for Fiscal Year 2026.
These changes mean higher maximum monthly allotments, revised eligibility income limits, and updated work rules.
SNAP Adjustments for FY 2026: Key Figures
| Measure | New (Oct 2025 – Sept 2026) | Change / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Max benefit (1-person household) | $298 | Up $6 from $292 |
| Max benefit (2-person) | $546 | Up $10 from $536 |
| Max benefit (3-person) | $785 | Up $17 from $768 |
| Max benefit (4-person) | $994 | Up $19 from $975 |
| Max benefit (5-person) | $1,183 | Up $25 |
| Max benefit (6-person) | $1,421 | Up $31 |
| Max benefit (7-person) | $1,571 | Up $35 |
| Max benefit (8-person) | $1,789 | Up $33 from $1,756 |
| Minimum benefit | $24 | Raised from $23 |
| Gross income eligibility (1 person) | $1,696 / month | 130% of poverty threshold |
| Work requirement expansion | Ages 55–64 (without dependents) now subject to ABAWD rule | New change under rules in effect Oct 2025 |
What the Increase Means for Florida SNAP Recipients
1. Higher Maximum Allotments
Florida households now benefit from slightly higher caps on SNAP allotments. For example, a four-person household can now receive up to $994 per month before deductions, reflecting a modest inflation adjustment.
Though these are maximums, the actual benefit a household receives will depend on net income, deductions (for housing, utilities, childcare, etc.), and asset limits.
2. Updated Income & Eligibility Limits
With the 2025 COLA:
- Gross income ceilings (130% FPL) were raised, allowing more households to qualify.
- Net income thresholds (after deductions) similarly shift upward, offering more flexibility.
- However, asset limits remain unchanged at $3,000, or $4,500 if someone in the household is over 60 or disabled.
3. Expanded Work Rules for ABAWDs
In a significant policy update, the ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents) work rule now applies to individuals aged 55 to 64 who have no dependents. They must meet 80 hours of work, training, or approved program participation per month—or face time limits on benefits.
Some exemptions remain (e.g., pregnancy, disability, living in high-unemployment areas), and many recipients won’t be impacted. But this change could affect 1.2 million people nationally under the new rule.
4. Florida-Specific Payment Schedule
In Florida, SNAP benefits are disbursed between the 1st and the 28th of each month based on a household’s case number or Social Security digits.
For October 2025, the schedule from October 14–28 is tied to the last two digits of your SSN, with specific ranges assigned to each day (e.g., SSN ending 46-48 on Oct 14; 96-99 on Oct 28) per Florida’s system.
What Households Should Do
- Check eligibility based on new limits — some families who previously didn’t qualify may now be eligible.
- Reapply or recertify if you already receive benefits to ensure you capture the increase.
- Understand deductions and net income rules — these determine your actual benefit.
- Watch for the ABAWD rule’s impact if you’re aged 55–64 without dependents.
- Stay aware of Florida’s payment schedule to know when your SNAP benefit will be loaded.
The October 2025 SNAP benefit increase in Florida brings relief to many households by raising maximum allotments and easing income limits.
Although the boost is modest, it helps households better cope with inflation and food costs. However, changes to the ABAWD rule, especially for those aged 55–64 without dependents, mean some recipients should carefully evaluate how the new rules apply to them.
FAQs
How much did SNAP benefits increase in Florida for October 2025?
Does everyone get the full maximum amount?
No. The actual benefit depends on your net income, deductions (housing, child care, etc.), and asset limits. Many households will receive less, even with the new maximums.