Texas SNAP Benefits to Rise with 2025 COLA: Starting October 1, 2024, Texas SNAP benefits will rise due to the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), a federal increase that reflects higher food and living expenses. This change means that eligible Texans will see slightly more money loaded onto their Lone Star Cards each month—a welcome boost for families grappling with inflation at the grocery store. But what exactly is the COLA? How much more will you get, and when? This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the SNAP increase in Texas, whether you’re a current recipient, helping others apply, or simply staying informed.
Texas SNAP Benefits to Rise with 2025 COLA
The 2025 SNAP COLA increase may be modest, but it comes at a time when every dollar matters for working families, seniors, and individuals facing food insecurity. With higher benefit limits and continued federal support, Texans who qualify for SNAP will be better positioned to maintain access to healthy, affordable food. Whether you’re applying for the first time, managing benefits, or helping others navigate the system, understanding how COLA works—and what it means in practice—is crucial.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | October 1, 2024 |
| COLA Increase | Approx. 2.5% to 3% |
| Max SNAP for 1-Person Household | $292/month |
| Max SNAP for 4-Person Household | $975/month |
| Deposit Schedule | Based on EDG number (1st–28th of each month) |
| Application Portal | YourTexasBenefits.com |
| Texas HHS Help Line | 1-877-541-7905 |
| USDA Resource | fns.usda.gov/snap |
What is the SNAP COLA and Why Does It Matter?
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is an annual recalculation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). It ensures SNAP benefits rise along with inflation so people can continue to afford basic groceries.
In simple terms, the government looks at how much food prices have gone up, then adjusts SNAP accordingly. The 2025 increase is modest but necessary: food-at-home costs have risen more than 3% in many areas, including Texas.
COLA not only supports household food budgets but also plays a critical role in reducing food insecurity, improving nutrition, and supporting child development and health outcomes.
New SNAP Maximum Benefit Amounts for Texas in 2025
Here’s what the updated benefits look like for different household sizes:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit (Oct 2024 – Sept 2025) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each Additional | +$220 |
Note: These are the maximum allowable amounts. Actual benefits may be lower depending on income and expenses.
When Will the Increase Be Reflected on Your Lone Star Card?
The updated benefits will begin appearing on recipients’ Lone Star Cards starting with October 2024 payments. Texas follows a staggered deposit schedule based on the last two digits of your Eligibility Determination Group (EDG) number.
Example Schedule:
- EDG ending in 00–03: Deposit on 16th of the month
- EDG ending in 25–27: Deposit on 23rd
- EDG ending in 96–99: Deposit on 28th
Eligibility Requirements for Texas SNAP in 2025
To qualify for SNAP, Texas households must meet:
Income Limits (Gross Monthly):
| Household Size | Max Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,632 |
| 2 | $2,215 |
| 3 | $2,798 |
| 4 | $3,380 |
| 5 | $3,963 |
| 6 | $4,546 |
| Each additional | +$583 |
Resource Limits:
- Most households: $3,250
- With a member who is elderly (60+) or disabled: $4,250
Work Requirements:
- Able-bodied adults (ages 18–54) must work 20+ hours/week or participate in a job training program.
- Exemptions apply to students, veterans, pregnant individuals, and those with certain hardships.
How to Apply for Texas SNAP Benefits to Rise with 2025 COLA?
Applying is easy and can be done in a few ways:
- Online: Go to YourTexasBenefits.com and create an account.
- By Phone: Call 2-1-1 or 1-877-541-7905.
- In Person: Visit a local Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) office.
You’ll need:
- Identification
- Proof of Texas residency
- Income documentation (pay stubs, Social Security statements)
- Expense records (rent, childcare, medical bills)
How the COLA Helps Real Texans: A Snapshot
Maria, a 34-year-old single mother of two in Dallas, saw her SNAP benefits increase from $712 to $732 after the 2025 COLA. “It may not seem like a lot,” she says, “but that extra $20 covers a full gallon of milk, a dozen eggs, and a loaf of bread each week.”
For many like Maria, even a small bump in benefits brings critical relief.
Tips for Making the Most of Your SNAP Benefits
- Shop in bulk: Rice, beans, pasta, and frozen veggies are cost-effective.
- Use coupons: Many stores accept digital or manufacturer coupons with SNAP.
- Buy seasonal produce: In-season fruits and vegetables are cheaper and fresher.
- Try farmers markets: Many Texas markets accept SNAP and offer Double Up Food Bucks.
- Plan meals: Create a weekly meal plan to avoid waste and reduce impulse spending.
Support for Social Workers and Case Managers
If you support SNAP clients, keep the following in mind:
- Stay updated with USDA and HHS announcements each fiscal year.
- Encourage clients to use the benefit calculator at YourTexasBenefits.com.
- Help clients organize required documents to reduce delays.
- Advocate for those in hardship zones, such as disaster-affected areas or food deserts.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When will the 2025 SNAP increase show on my card?
A: Beginning with your October 2024 benefit deposit.
Q: What can SNAP be used for?
A: Eligible foods like fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and bread. Not for hot prepared foods, alcohol, or non-food items.
Q: Can SNAP be used online?
A: Yes, at participating retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
Q: How long do benefits stay on my card?
A: SNAP benefits roll over month to month but expire after 12 months of inactivity.
Q: Can immigrants apply for SNAP in Texas?
A: Some non-citizens may qualify, including lawful permanent residents and refugees.
