SNAP recipients in two states can now receive an additional $60 per month through a new incentive program funded by the USDA. This initiative is part of the Electronic Healthy Incentives Projects (eHIP) aimed at increasing access to healthy foods. In this article, we explore the specifics of the new incentive, eligibility, and the schedule for SNAP payments in August 2024.
New SNAP Incentive Plan
1. Overview of the Incentive Program
The USDA has allocated $25 million to test the eHIP program, which provides SNAP beneficiaries with extra benefits when they purchase fruits and vegetables at participating retailers.
This incentive, currently implemented in Washington and Colorado, allows recipients to receive up to $60 per month in additional benefits.
2. Implementation in Colorado and Washington
In Colorado, the program offers a $20 reimbursement per purchase, with a maximum of $60 per month. Washington was the first state to implement this program in June 2023.
The program aims to enhance access to nutritious foods for SNAP households, ultimately improving health and well-being.
SNAP Benefits Payment Schedule for August 2024
| State | Payment Dates (August 2024) |
|---|---|
| Alabama | August 4 to 23 |
| Alaska | August 1 |
| Arizona | August 1 to 13 |
| Arkansas | August 4 to 13 |
| California | August 1 to 10 |
| Colorado | August 1 to 10 |
| Connecticut | August 1 to 3 |
| Delaware | August 2 to 23 |
| District of Columbia | August 1 to 10 |
| Florida | August 1 to 28 |
| Georgia | August 5 to 23 |
| Guam | August 1 to 10 |
| Hawaii | August 3 to 5 |
| Idaho | August 1 to 10 |
| Illinois | August 1 to 20 |
| Indiana | August 5 to 23 |
| Iowa | August 1 to 10 |
| Kansas | August 1 to 10 |
| Kentucky | August 1 to 19 |
| Louisiana | August 1 to 23 |
| Maine | August 10 to 14 |
| Maryland | August 4 to 23 |
| Massachusetts | August 1 to 14 |
| Michigan | August 3 to 21 |
| Minnesota | August 4 to 13 |
| Mississippi | August 4 to 21 |
| Missouri | August 1 to 22 |
| Montana | August 2 to 6 |
| Nebraska | August 1 to 5 |
| Nevada | August 1 to 10 |
| New Hampshire | August 5 |
| New Jersey | August 1 to 5 |
| New Mexico | August 1 to 20 |
| New York | August 1 to 9 |
| North Carolina | August 3 to 21 |
| North Dakota | August 1 |
| Ohio | August 2 to 20 |
| Oklahoma | August 1 to 10 |
| Oregon | August 1 to 9 |
| Pennsylvania | August 3 to 14 |
| Puerto Rico | August 4 to August 22 |
| Rhode Island | August 1 |
| South Carolina | August 1 to 19 |
| South Dakota | August 10 |
| Tennessee | August 1 to 20 |
| Texas | August 1 to 28 |
| Utah | August 5, 11, and 15 |
| Virgin Islands | August 1 |
| Vermont | August 1 |
| Virginia | August 1 to 7 |
| Washington | August 1 to 20 |
| West Virginia | August 1 to 9 |
| Wisconsin | August 1 to 15 |
| Wyoming | August 1 to 4 |
Conclusion
The new SNAP incentive plan in Colorado and Washington provides additional benefits to recipients who purchase fruits and vegetables. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote healthier eating habits among low-income households.
As the program rolls out, eligible recipients should be aware of the payment schedule and take advantage of the increased benefits.
Q1. What is the new SNAP incentive program?
A. The SNAP incentive program provides up to $60 extra per month to recipients who purchase fruits and vegetables at participating retailers in Colorado and Washington.
Q2. How does the incentive work?
A. Eligible recipients receive $20 back per qualifying purchase, up to a $60 monthly cap, automatically credited to their EBT card.
Q3. Where is the incentive program available?
A. The program is currently available in Washington and Colorado, with plans to expand to other states.
Q4. What types of food are eligible for the bonus?
A. Fresh, frozen (without added sugar, oil, or salt), and dried fruits and vegetables qualify for the bonus.
Q5. Do I need to sign up for the incentive program?
A. No registration is required; simply shop at participating retailers to receive the incentive.
