SNAP Payments Face Major Cuts Amid Government Shutdown Turmoil
Millions of Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are facing a dramatic reduction in benefits this November, as the fallout from the ongoing government shutdown continues to ripple through the nation’s safety net programs. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that
maximum SNAP allotments will be reduced by 35 percent, meaning recipients will receive only
65 percent of their usual monthly benefits for November 2025.
What Changed: From 50% to 35% Reduction
Earlier guidance from the USDA suggested a
50 percent cut to SNAP benefits, but a revised memorandum issued on November 5, 2025, softened the blow slightly, reducing the cut to 35 percent. This change comes after a series of court rulings and emergency measures, with federal judges ordering the administration to continue funding SNAP—even as the shutdown threatened to halt payments entirely.
Despite these legal interventions, the USDA maintains that the November payments will be
significantly reduced, and the agency has published new maximum allotment tables for households of various sizes. For example:
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Household of 1: $149
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Household of 2: $273
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Household of 3: $392
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Household of 4: $497
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Household of 5: $591
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Household of 6: $710
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Household of 7: $785
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Household of 8: $894
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Each additional person: $109
Why the Cuts? Shutdown, Legal Battles, and Funding Chaos
The root of the crisis is the ongoing federal government shutdown, which has frozen funding for SNAP and other critical programs. While judges have ordered the administration to pay out benefits, the USDA argues that outdated systems and bureaucratic hurdles could delay or reduce payments for weeks or even months. The Trump administration has requested an appeals court to block the judge’s order for full funding, adding further uncertainty to the situation.
Real Impact: 42 Million Americans at Risk
SNAP is a lifeline for
roughly 42 million Americans, providing essential support for food and groceries. The program is federally funded but administered by states, with eligibility based on income, household size, and expenses. Benefits are loaded onto EBT cards, which recipients use to purchase groceries at authorized retailers.
For many families, the November cuts mean tough choices at the checkout line. Advocacy groups warn that reduced benefits could lead to increased food insecurity, especially as the holiday season approaches.
What’s Next: Legal Appeals and State-Level Responses
The situation remains fluid. While some states are working to ensure payments go out on schedule, others are bracing for delays and confusion. The USDA has promised to keep state agencies updated and is urging recipients to contact their local offices with questions.
Experts say the outcome of ongoing legal appeals will determine whether SNAP benefits are restored to full levels or remain reduced for the foreseeable future. In the meantime, millions of Americans are left waiting—and worrying—about how they’ll put food on the table this month.
Takeaways for SNAP Recipients
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Expect reduced payments: Most households will see a 35 percent reduction in their November SNAP benefits.
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Check your EBT balance: Payments may be delayed or lower than usual.
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Contact your state SNAP office: For the latest updates and assistance.
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Watch for further announcements: Legal rulings and government actions could change the situation quickly.
Sources
1. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
2. SNAP benefits: Here's how much payments will be in November
3. Here are the maximum SNAP payments for November (for now)
4. Snapchat Update: Latest Snapchat Updates and Snapchat New Features - The Economic Times
5. SNAP Payments November 2025 — Full Dates and Schedule
6. When your SNAP benefits could become available in November
7. BREAKING: Federal judge orders Trump administration to fully fund ...
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9. November SNAP Benefits
10. SNAP funding is set to lapse Nov. 1, leaving recipients empty-handed. Here's what experts say.
11. Trump admin will partially fund November SNAP benefits
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