Every month, millions of Americans receive help to buy groceries through the SNAP benefits program—also known as food stamps. While many have already received their April 2025 payments, some people are still waiting. That’s because in some states, the payments are sent out over several weeks, not all at once.
Let’s look at how the program works, which states are still sending out payments, how much money you can get, and what you can or cannot buy with SNAP.
What is SNAP and How Does It Help?
SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a federal service that helps people who don’t have enough money to buy food. It is managed by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
People who qualify for SNAP get a card called an EBT card. This card works like a debit card and can be used at grocery stores that are part of the program. You can use it to buy approved food items for your home.
These States Are Still Sending SNAP Payments in Late April
Some states send all their payments on one day, especially if they have fewer people on SNAP. But larger states spread their payments out across the whole month. That means some residents are still waiting for their money.
Here’s a list of states that are still distributing April SNAP benefits, and the dates:
- Delaware: April 2–23 (including April 21 to 23)
- Florida: April 1–28 (including April 21 to 28)
- Louisiana: April 1–23 (including April 21 to 23)
- Michigan: April 3–21 (last payment on April 21)
- Mississippi: April 4–21 (last payment on April 21)
- Missouri: April 1–22 (including April 21 and 22)
- North Carolina: April 3–21 (last payment on April 21)
- Texas: April 1–28 (including April 21 to 28)
If you live in one of these states and haven’t received your SNAP money yet, you may get it soon.
SNAP Benefit Amounts in April 2025
How much money you get from SNAP depends on how many people live in your household. Here are the maximum monthly amounts for April 2025 in the 48 U.S. states plus Washington D.C.:
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,158
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
Each extra person: Add $220
These are the highest amounts a household can receive. The exact amount can vary depending on your income and expenses.
What You Can Buy with SNAP (And What You Can’t)
SNAP is meant to help you buy food to prepare and eat at home. Here’s what you’re allowed to buy:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products like milk and cheese
- Breads and cereals
- Non-alcoholic drinks and snacks
- Seeds and plants for growing your own food
- Cooking items like oil and spices
Items you cannot buy with SNAP include:
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Hot foods ready to eat
- Vitamins and medicines
- Cleaning supplies and other non-food items
- Personal care products like soap or shampoo
- Pet food
- Live animals (except shellfish and fish)
Also, not every store accepts EBT cards. Only stores approved by the FNS can take SNAP payments.
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits
If you think you qualify for SNAP but haven’t applied yet, it’s easy to get started. Visit the official SNAP page on the USDA website. There, you can learn more about the program, check if you qualify, and find your nearest SNAP office.