November 2025 and Beyond: If the shutdown persists, yes, SNAP benefits will be cut or suspended nationwide for all recipients starting November 1, 2025. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has warned states of "insufficient funds" for full payments, with November costs estimated at $8 billion—exceeding the $6 billion contingency reserve (after reserving ~$500 million for state admin costs). USDA directed states on October 10 not to process November loads onto EBT cards until further notice.At least 25 states (half the country) have already announced suspensions, including Texas (halt after Oct. 27), Pennsylvania ("cannot be paid"), Missouri ("temporarily suspend"), Oklahoma (suspension from Nov. 1), New York, New Jersey, Nevada, North Dakota, California, and Washington. Even if funding resumes, delays could last weeks due to processing backlogs. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins confirmed benefits would "go away" without a deal by November.
This differs from the 2018-2019 shutdown, where early February payments were issued as a workaround (unused here due to depleted reserves). Additional 2025 Trump administration changes—$186 billion in cuts over 10 years, stricter work requirements—exacerbate the strain, potentially disqualifying 22 million more families by 2026.What SNAP Recipients Should DoAction
Details
Budget Existing Funds
Use October balances wisely; they expire after 9-12 months (state-specific), but post-Oct. 31 usability is unclear in some states. Lock EBT cards against fraud.
Seek Alternatives
Contact local food banks (e.g., Feeding America network) now—demand is surging. Apply for emergency aid via 211.org or state hotlines.
Stay Informed
Monitor USDA.gov or your state's human services site (e.g., Texas HHS, PA DHS) for updates. Applications/recertifications continue processing.
Advocacy
Urge Congress to pass a continuing resolution; groups like the Food Research & Action Center track impacts.
This crisis risks spiking hunger rates (already at 12-13% nationally) and overwhelming nonprofits. Food banks report reserves could deplete in 1-2 weeks if cuts hit. If resolved soon, backpay may follow, but families face tough choices like skipping meals or rent in the interim.
