We understand that navigating changes to essential programs like SNAP can feel overwhelming. This post aims to provide you with clear, helpful information about recent updates and resources that can support you and your family during this transition.

On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed the "One Big Beautiful Bill" into law, making major shifts to the SNAP program. Here’s what that means for you and how Forage and other programs will continue to support you in accessing your benefits.

Key Changes Taking Effect

Stricter Work Requirements

Work requirements for long-term benefit eligibility have been expanded. If you're an able-bodied adult, you'll now need to work or participate in job training for at least 80 hours per month to maintain your SNAP benefits. This requirement now applies to individuals up to age 64 (previously 54) and includes caregivers responsible for children aged 14 and older (previously under 18).

Benefit Calculation Changes

The Thrifty Food Plan, which determines benefit amounts, will now only be adjusted once per year based on inflation. Benefits levels also won’t be re-evaluated until October 2027, and in the future will only be re-assessed for cost-neutral adjustments for inflation.

Eligibility Changes for Non-Citizens

SNAP eligibility is now limited to U.S. citizens, nationals, lawful permanent residents, Cuban or Haitian entrants, or individuals lawfully residing under a Compact of Free Association.

State Administrative Changes

Beginning in fiscal year 2027, states may be required to cover 75% of SNAP administrative costs, up from 50%. States with higher error rates will face cost-sharing requirements starting in 2028.

What This Means for You

We know these changes may feel daunting, but there are steps you can take to prepare and resources available to help.

If you're currently receiving SNAP benefits, we encourage you to:

• Explore job training opportunities if you're subject to changing work requirements
• Consider applying for complementary programs that can help stretch your food budget
• Connect with local food assistance programs, banks, and pantries in your community

Additional Support Programs Available

While SNAP changes are significant, remember that there are other programs that can help support you and your family's nutritional needs:

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program provides nutrition assistance, healthy food, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education for pregnant individuals and families with children under six.

School Meal Programs offer free or reduced-cost breakfast and lunch for students. Children qualify for free meals if household income is at or below 130% of the federal poverty level.

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) provides free emergency food through local food banks, soup kitchens, and food pantries.

Senior Programs like the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program and Commodity Supplemental Food Program support adults 60 and older with additional food resources.

Local Food Distribution Sites throughout communities provide emergency food assistance. You can find nearby locations by contacting your state's food resource website or texting FINDFOOD to 888-976-2232.

If you need immediate help navigating these changes or finding local resources, call 211 to speak with trained community specialists who can connect you with assistance in your area.

Take Action: Two Essential Resources

We've identified several resources that can help you maximize your food assistance and savings:

1. mRelief - This free tool helps you determine if you or your family qualify for SNAP benefits and other assistance programs. Visit mRelief to check your eligibility and get help applying for benefits you may be entitled to receive. You can also text ‘Food’ to 7544!

2. SnapScreener.com - This tool will help you quickly determine if you qualify for benefits and other assistance programs.

3. Forage Consumer App - Specifically designed for SNAP recipients, Forage helps you unlock cash back on EBT purchases and access exclusive discounts with grocery retailers.

Moving Forward Together

Change can be challenging, but you don't have to navigate it alone. These programs and resources exist to support you and your family's wellbeing. By staying informed, exploring available assistance programs, and utilizing tools designed to help you save money, you can work toward food security even as the landscape shifts.

Your wellbeing always matters, and there are people and organizations committed to helping you and your family succeed. Take advantage of these resources, stay connected with your community, and remember: together, we can navigate these changes and work toward a more food-secure future for everyone.