It’s definitely possible to get up to $2,588 in SNAP benefits, but that maximum is only in rare U.S. territories, like Guam, and not in the 48 contiguous states or the District of Columbia.
Higher SNAP benefits are available in Alaska and Hawaii, but Guam tops the scales with the highest possible SNAP payments. It may seem surprising, but not everyone living in these territories qualifies for the top transfer tier. How does this work, or at least breakdown what procedure will be taken in such a high payment?
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Guam’s High SNAP Benefits
SNAP benefits are highest in the U.S. on Guam, where families of 8 receive up to $2,588. But it’s important to point out that that’s the max. This amount isn’t granted to all families in Guam, even if they had eight members in them. The reduction in SNAP of various other income sources other than wages can include wages or other benefits. For example, the more you earn, the less SNAP you receive.
Here’s a breakdown of some key figures:
Household Size | Maximum SNAP Payment in Guam |
---|---|
1 Person | $431 |
8 Persons | $2,588 |
Alaska and Hawaii
Because of their high cost of living, Alaska and Hawaii traditionally have had the highest SNAP benefits available. That said, Hawaii reduced benefits after the 2025 cost of living adjustment (COLA), putting it behind Guam, which now has the highest possible SNAP payments. Despite this, Alaska continues to be one of the highest states in which SNAP payments are elevated over the mainland U.S.
SNAP Payment Schedule
If you live in Guam, the last digit of your Social Security Number (SSN) will determine the way SNAP payments are distributed. Here’s how it works:
SSN Ending | Payment Date |
---|---|
7 | October 7th |
8 | October 8th |
9 | October 9th |
0 | October 10th |
SNAP Payments
SNAP payment tops out at just $1,756 in the 48 contiguous states, most significantly below Guam even after a settlement COLA increase in 2025. Payment schedule varies by state as well as time spanning multiple weeks. Here’s a quick look at the payment dates for some of the major states:
State | Payment Dates |
---|---|
Alabama | October 4-23 |
California | October 1-10 |
Florida | October 1-28 |
New York | October 1-9 |
Texas | October 1-28 |
Eligibility
The maximum payment will not be available to all SNAP recipients. The amount you get depends on aspects such as your household size, income, and other financial assets. Suppose your family gets some other benefits, then your SNAP payment may be cut.
Here’s what you should consider:
- Household Size: Larger families typically qualify for higher payments, but there are still income limits.
- Income: If you have a steady income from work or other benefits, your SNAP payment may be lower.
- Other Financial Resources: Assets such as savings or property could also impact your eligibility for higher SNAP payments.
To find out how much you’re even eligible to receive, you’ll want to apply with the most accurate numbers you have about your income and household size.
SNAP benefits are intended to help low-income families meet their food costs; the maximum is higher in some territories, like Guam but the vast majority of individuals and families will receive the lower amount based on their particular circumstances.
The best available information is the USDA website or the official site of your local SNAP office.
FAQs
Q. Can I receive $2,588 in the 48 contiguous states?
A. No, the maximum is $1,756 after the 2025 COLA adjustment.
Q. Who qualifies for $2,588 in SNAP benefits?
A. In Guam, a family of eight without income reductions can be enrolled.
Q. What is the highest SNAP payment for a single person?
A. In Guam, a single person can receive up to $431.