More Food on the Table

Starting in April 2009, households receiving SNAP/food stamps will see an increase in benefits.  ARRA effectively raised maximum benefits to 13.36% of the Thrifty Food Plan (TFP) value in June 2008.  As you may remember from a previous post , the TFP is the most frugal basket of foods one can buy, and it serves as the basis for calculating SNAP program benefits.

The minimum benefit of $14 will be increased to $16, and some households will get even more depending on their income.  The table below shows the increases for households currently receiving the maximum benefits.  For instance, a household of one currently receiving the maximum benefit of $176 monthly will see an increase of $24 for a total benefit of $200.

People in Household             Increase

1                                              +$24

2                                              + $44

3                                              + $63

4                                              + $80

5                                              + $95

6                                              + $114

7                                              + $126

8                                              + $144

Each extra person                     + $18

Due to this increase, benefit recipients will not see a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) until such time as the TFP value exceeds the benefit calculated under ARRA.  The Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) will notify clients of any future COLA when it occurs.  As for this increased benefit, clients will receive it automatically on their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards.

For additional information about SNAP/food stamp benefits in Massachusetts, or to apply, you can visit the DTA page at www.mass.gov or call the DTA at 1-800-249-2007 for your local DTA office.  You can also call Project Bread's toll-free FoodSource Hotline at 1-800-645-8333 for other SNAP locations in your area.