top of page

SNAP Benefits Resource Guide

What to Do If Your SNAP Benefits Are Affected by the Government Shutdown

(Use this sheet if you learn your benefits are delayed, stopped, or at risk.)


While the government drags their feet and collects their paychecks, over 40 million Americans are set to lose access to SNAP benefits on November 1st. If you're one of them, check out the resources below to see what's available in your area.


Food access is a RIGHT not a PRIVILEGE


1. Stay informed & check your account

  • Verify your remaining balance on your EBT card. Some states warn that benefits already loaded may be usable, but future benefits might be delayed.

  • Go to your state SNAP agency’s website for updates; many have special shutdown-information pages.

  • Continue to meet all SNAP requirements (recertifications, reporting changes) even if benefits are delayed. Otherwise you risk losing eligibility.

2. Plan ahead for food access

  • If you still have balance on your EBT card, prioritize shelf-stable items (canned goods, dry beans/rice, frozen vegetables) to stretch your budget.

  • Identify local food banks, pantries, church meal programs, mutual-aid networks. These can help bridge the gap while benefits are delayed.

3. Contact your local food assistance network

  • Reach out to your county/city human services or social services office and ask: “What emergency food resources are available in my area if SNAP is delayed?” Links at bottom of blog to find a food bank near you

  • Ask about:

    • Community food pantry hours and eligibility

    • Mobile food distribution (often in rural areas)

    • Emergency meals programs (soup kitchens, faith-based free meals)

4. Apply for other emergency assistance programs

  • Even if your SNAP is delayed, you may qualify for other help:

    • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) – may be impacted but still operating in some states.

    • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) cash programs, housing / utility assistance via local social services offices.

    • Local community agencies (YMCAs, churches, United Way) which may offer emergency grocery vouchers, food box programs or partner with food banks.

    • Check BenefitsCheckUp.org to see if there's others your may qualify for in your area

5. Stay connected with your state lawmaker and agency

  • This helps more broadly: let your state social services department know you’re impacted. Many state sites say “we will update you as soon as more guidance is issued.” KEEP CALLING.

  • Contact your local state representative or senator’s office and tell them: “My SNAP benefit is delayed due to the federal shutdown and I need help.” An engaged local official may help expedite state-level relief or emergency food access.

6. Budget carefully during the interruption

  • Use any remaining SNAP funds as efficiently as possible (buy staples, bulk where possible, plan meals around minimal resources).

  • Avoid non-essential spending until benefits resume.

  • If possible, set aside emergency funds (even a small amount) for groceries, in case the interruption lasts longer than expected.

  • Recognize this may be a temporary disruption—but plan as though you’ll need to stretch resources for at least a month.


Here are several reliable websites where people can go for more information and to find local food-assistance resources if their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are stopped or delayed:

  1. Feeding America – “Find Your Local Food Bank” search tool

    • Enter your ZIP code to locate nearby food banks, pantries, meal programs. Feeding America

    • Also more broadly: help finding free food and groceries via their network. Feeding America

    • Good for emergency access while other benefits are interrupted.

  2. FoodFinder – Food pantry locator tool

    • Search by ZIP code for food pantries in your area. FoodFinder

    • Helpful for finding smaller, community-level resources.

  3. USA.gov – Government platform for food assistance information

    • A “Food assistance” page which outlines how to apply for SNAP, WIC, and find emergency food help. USAGov

    • Good for general eligibility/application/readiness info.

  4. California Association of Food Banks

    • While specific to California, illustrates how state associations list local food banks by county, distribution schedules, etc. California Association of Food Banks

    • Useful model: you can look for your state’s equivalent directory.

  5. CauseIQ – Large directory of food banks & pantries

    • A database listing thousands of food banks/pantries across the U.S. Cause IQ

    • Best when you need a more exhaustive list beyond larger networks.

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page