Good news for many families this month – SNAP Emergency Allotments are making a comeback in five U.S. states this August 2025. These extra benefits are designed to help low-income households cope with rising food costs, ensuring they can buy healthy groceries without worrying about running out of funds. If you live in one of the states bringing back these payments, you could see extra money loaded onto your EBT card this month.
Below, we’ll go over which states are included, how much you might get, and the exact August payment dates so you can plan ahead.
What Are SNAP Emergency Allotments?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, helps millions of Americans afford nutritious meals. Emergency Allotments (EAs) are extra payments given on top of regular SNAP benefits during times of crisis, such as high inflation, natural disasters, or economic downturns.
In most states, these allotments ended in early 2023, but some have reinstated them due to continuing hardship. In August 2025, five states are once again issuing these extra benefits.
Which States Are Giving SNAP Emergency Allotments in August 2025?
For this month, the states issuing SNAP Emergency Allotments are:
- California
- New Mexico
- Hawaii
- Maine
- South Carolina
These states have either declared a continuing public health or economic emergency or used state funds to support additional food benefits.
August 2025 SNAP Emergency Allotment Payment Dates
Payment schedules vary by state. Here’s when you can expect the extra funds in August:
- California – August 17 to August 23, based on case number.
- New Mexico – August 1 (single-day deposit).
- Hawaii – August 13 (all recipients).
- Maine – August 10 (all recipients).
- South Carolina – August 15 to August 19 (depending on EBT card number).
If your state’s deposit falls on a weekend or holiday, your benefits may arrive the next business day.
How Much Will You Get?
The exact amount depends on your household size and current SNAP benefits. The Emergency Allotment ensures you receive the maximum SNAP benefit for your household size or at least an extra $95 if you already get the maximum.
Example of maximum monthly SNAP benefits in 2025:
| Household Size | Maximum Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $291 |
| 2 | $535 |
| 3 | $766 |
| 4 | $973 |
| 5 | $1,155 |
If your household of three currently receives $500, the Emergency Allotment would add $266, bringing your total to $766 for the month.
Who Qualifies for August SNAP Emergency Allotments?
You qualify automatically if:
- You are an active SNAP recipient in one of the participating states.
- Your household has been approved for SNAP before or during August 2025.
- Your state’s program rules allow for the extra payment.
No separate application is needed – the funds are added directly to your EBT card.
How to Check Your August SNAP Payment
- EBT Card Balance: Call the number on the back of your card or use your state’s EBT app.
- SNAP Office Website: Most states update their benefit schedules online.
- Text Alerts: Some states offer free text alerts for benefit deposits.
For many families, these extra SNAP benefits can make the difference between struggling to put food on the table and having enough to feed everyone. If you live in California, New Mexico, Hawaii, Maine, or South Carolina, keep an eye on your EBT account this August. The Emergency Allotments are a timely boost during a period when grocery prices remain high.
By knowing your payment date and estimated benefit amount, you can plan your shopping better and stretch your food dollars further. While these extra benefits are not permanent, they are a vital support for those in need right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which states are giving SNAP Emergency Allotments in August 2025?
California, New Mexico, Hawaii, Maine, and South Carolina are issuing extra benefits this month.
2. Do I need to apply to get the August Emergency Allotment?
No. If you are already approved for SNAP in one of the participating states, the extra benefits will be added to your EBT card automatically.
3. How much extra money will I get?
The Emergency Allotment ensures you receive the maximum SNAP benefit for your household size. If you already receive the maximum, you will get at least an extra $95.
4. When will I get my August Emergency Allotment?
Dates vary by state:
- California: August 17–23
- New Mexico: August 1
- Hawaii: August 13
- Maine: August 10
- South Carolina: August 15–19
5. How can I check if my payment has arrived?
You can call the number on the back of your EBT card, check your balance online or via your state’s EBT mobile app, or sign up for text alerts in states that offer them.
