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On Friday afternoon, the Georgia Department of Human Services announced a crucial update regarding the future of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. In light of the ongoing federal government shutdown, these benefits may cease to be available starting November 1.
The announcement follows a notification from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), indicating insufficient funding to sustain the program into the upcoming month if the shutdown persists.
This development isn’t isolated to Georgia. Florida’s SNAP webpage has issued a similar advisory, alerting recipients to potential disruptions.
The notice from Florida emphasizes that if the federal shutdown extends into November, SNAP benefits will be withheld until federal funding is reinstated. Although recipients may be informed about their eligible benefit amounts, no funds will be deposited onto EBT cards during this period.
“If the federal government shutdown continues into November, SNAP benefits for the month of November will not be issued until federal funding is restored. You may receive notices about your eligible benefit amount, but you will not receive any benefits deposited to your EBT card during this time.”
Georgia DHS said that essential shopping for Georgians should be done before Nov. 1. That’s when it says EBT cards will no longer be usable, meaning SNAP users will not be able to access existing funds.
“Recipients should plan ahead now and shop for needed items,” wrote Georgia DHS.
Georgians can check their EBT card balances on the ConnectEBT website or app, while Floridians can utilize ebtEDGE.com.
For more information on changes to SNAP benefits, visit the respective Georgia and Florida SNAP websites.
