WASHINGTON, Nov. 6, 2025 — Recipients of federal food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will receive a higher portion of their November benefits than first projected, according to new guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) [1].
Earlier in the week, states were instructed to distribute only half of the usual monthly allotment as the federal government shutdown entered its 37th day. But in a late-Wednesday court declaration, Patrick Penn, the USDA official overseeing food and nutrition services, confirmed that maximum allotments will now be reduced by 35% instead of 50%, allowing recipients to receive up to 65% of their regular benefits [2].
The shift followed coordination between the USDA and the U.S. Department of Justice [3], which told the court the administration would “fulfill its obligation to expend the full amount of SNAP contingency funds.” Roughly $4.6 billion in reserve money will be used to support these partial payments.
Why the Adjustment Matters
SNAP remains the largest anti-hunger program in the U.S., serving tens of millions of households each month. During a shutdown, the USDA relies on contingency funds to sustain partial payments, but limited reserves constrain how much can be distributed [4].
By raising the allotment from 50% to 65%, the USDA aims to soften the blow to families who depend on SNAP for groceries and basic nutrition. However, the increase still leaves a 35% gap in benefits, and the agency cautioned that additional shortfalls could occur if the shutdown extends into December [5].
Impact on States and Recipients
The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service [6] instructed state agencies to recalculate benefit levels and update electronic transfer systems to reflect the revised guidance. This process may cause temporary payment delays in some states.
Benefit levels will vary by household income and size. Officials stressed that “up to 65%” represents a maximum threshold, not a flat rate [7].
What’s Next for SNAP
Federal officials have not yet announced plans for December 2025 if the shutdown persists. Anti-hunger advocates warn that further disruptions could intensify food insecurity across the country [8].
Recipients can check state-specific updates or confirm their benefit amounts by visiting the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website [9] or contacting their state SNAP office [10].
References:
[1] USDA: Revised Benefit Administrative Update (Nov 2025)
[2] AP News: Government Says SNAP Benefit Cuts Won’t Be as Deep
[3] Politico: Trump Admin to Pay for More November SNAP Benefits Than Expected
[4] USDA FNS: SNAP Contingency Funding Overview
[5] Reuters: SNAP Funding Risks Extend into December
[6] USDA FNS Homepage
[7] KCRA: USDA Revises SNAP Reduction Plan for November
[8] AP News: USDA Statement on SNAP Partial Allotments
[9] USDA SNAP Portal
[10] USA.gov: State Social Services Directory