On October 1, the federal government entered a partial shutdown after Congress failed to pass a funding bill — leaving many families wondering what this means for their SNAP benefits. If you’re worried about how this government shutdown might affect your food benefits, here’s what you need to know.

Will I still get my SNAP benefits?

Yes. SNAP is a mandatory program. Your monthly benefits will continue to be loaded onto your EBT card on schedule. Benefits for October are already funded, and USDA has safeguards in place to keep them flowing during the shutdown.

Can I still use my EBT card?

Absolutely. Your card will work as usual at online retailers and delivery apps, grocery stores, and farmers markets that accept SNAP. Nothing changes about where or how you can shop.

Can I still save using the Forage app?

Yes, you can still use the Forage app to save on groceries. The app will continue to work as usual.

Are there any delays or changes I should expect?

• No impact on shopping: You can keep using your EBT card as usual.
• Possible slower service: If you need to replace a lost card or call your state office, wait times may be longer while some government staff are furloughed.
• WIC is different: If you also use WIC, check with your state office — WIC funding may be disrupted sooner than SNAP.

Why does SNAP keep running during a shutdown?

SNAP is funded in advance and considered essential, with safeguards in place to keep benefits flowing even while many other government programs pause.

How is Forage helping?

At Forage, we build technology that powers EBT payments online. During the shutdown, we’re:

• Making sure every SNAP transaction processes smoothly.
• Staying in close contact with USDA, state agencies, and online retailers and delivery apps, grocery stores, and farmers markets that accept SNAP.
• Sharing updates if anything changes that could affect your benefits.

The bottom line: You can keep shopping with confidence. Your SNAP EBT benefits remain safe, available, and ready to use.