The SNAP Disbursement Schedule and its Effects

Abstract

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program (FSP), is the largest food assistance program administered by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). In 2017, SNAP provided aid to 12.9% of the United States population—the average household received $254 in benefits per month (USDA). The stated objectives of the SNAP program are to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty through the provision of in-kind transfers to households who are eligible for benefits. Nevertheless, in a sample of SNAP households, approximately 61% indicated being food insecure in 2011 and 2012 (Mabli et al. 2013). Although SNAP is a federal program, each state is responsible for distributing benefits to its residents. Distribution dates for each household are determined at the state level and all 50 states currently deliver benefits according to a monthly distribution cycle.