The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as CalFresh in California, provides financial assistance to eligible low-income households to help them afford nutritious food. For a family of five, SNAP benefits can provide essential support, especially given the financial strain many families face today. In this guide, we’ll cover the maximum SNAP benefits available, the November payment schedule, and eligibility requirements, using California as an example.
Maximum SNAP Benefits
For November 2024, a family of five can qualify for a maximum SNAP benefit of $1,158 if they meet all eligibility requirements and receive no benefit reductions. On average, a family of this size typically receives around $845 per month, as reported by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. The monthly amount varies based on income, household resources, and other factors that determine need.
With the 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), SNAP benefit amounts for November will be the same as in October, maintaining these increased payment levels for beneficiaries across the United States.
SNAP Payment Schedule
SNAP payments are issued on different dates across the U.S., with schedules depending on the state, district, or territory. Here is the November 2024 schedule for SNAP payments for various locations:
| State | SNAP Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | November 4 to 23 |
| Alaska | November 1 |
| Arizona | November 1 to 13 |
| Arkansas | November 4 to 13 |
| California | November 1 to 10 |
| Colorado | November 1 to 10 |
| Connecticut | November 1 to 3 |
| Delaware | November 2 to 23 |
| Florida | November 1 to 28 |
| Georgia | November 5 to 23 |
| Hawaii | November 3 to 5 |
| Idaho | November 1 to 10 |
| Illinois | November 1 to 10 |
| Indiana | November 5 to 23 |
| Iowa | November 1 to 10 |
| Kansas | November 1 to 10 |
| Kentucky | November 1 to 19 |
| Louisiana | November 1 to 23 |
| Maine | November 10 to 14 |
| Maryland | November 4 to 23 |
| Massachusetts | November 1 to 14 |
| Michigan | November 3 to 21 |
| Minnesota | November 4 to 13 |
| Mississippi | November 4 to 21 |
| Missouri | November 1 to 22 |
| Montana | November 2 to 6 |
| Nebraska | November 1 to 5 |
| Nevada | November 1 to 10 |
| New Hampshire | November 5 |
| New Jersey | November 1 to 5 |
| New Mexico | November 1 to 20 |
| New York | November 1 to 9 |
| North Carolina | November 3 to 21 |
| North Dakota | November 1 |
| Ohio | November 2 to 20 |
| Oklahoma | November 1 to 10 |
| Oregon | November 1 to 9 |
| Pennsylvania | First 10 business days |
| Rhode Island | November 1 |
| South Carolina | November 1 to 10 |
| South Dakota | November 10 |
| Tennessee | November 1 to 20 |
| Texas | November 1 to 28 |
| Utah | November 5, 11, 15 |
| Vermont | November 1 |
| Virginia | November 1 to 7 |
| Washington | November 1 to 20 |
| West Virginia | November 1 to 9 |
| Wisconsin | November 1 to 15 |
| Wyoming | November 1 to 4 |
| Guam | November 1 to 10 |
| Puerto Rico | November 4 to 22 |
| District of Columbia | November 1 to 10 |
| U.S. Virgin Islands | November 1 |
This schedule can help recipients plan ahead and know when to expect their benefits.
SNAP Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for SNAP, families must meet specific income, asset, and residency requirements. In California, SNAP eligibility criteria are as follows:
Income Limits
- Gross Monthly Income: For a family of five, the gross monthly income limit is $6,098 (200% of the federal poverty level).
- Net Monthly Income: After deductions, the net income limit is $3,049 (100% of the federal poverty level). Deductions include 20% from earned income, a standard deduction based on family size, dependent care costs, medical expenses for elderly or disabled members, and excess shelter costs.
Resource Limit
In California, there is no asset limit for SNAP unless the household has an elderly or disabled member who exceeds the gross income threshold. In this case, a federal resource limit of $4,500 applies.
Work Requirements
- Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs): Adults aged 18-49 who do not have dependents must work or participate in a program for at least 20 hours weekly to qualify for benefits beyond three months in a 36-month period.
- Exemptions: Children, seniors, the disabled, and pregnant individuals are generally exempt from work requirements.
Citizenship Requirements
SNAP is available to U.S. citizens and certain lawfully present non-citizens, such as those who have lived in the U.S. for at least five years, are receiving disability benefits, or are under age 18.
How to Apply
Families can apply for CalFresh (California’s SNAP program) by contacting their local SNAP office, either in person, online, or by phone. The process is designed to be accessible, ensuring that eligible households receive the support they need.
November SNAP Amounts
The 2025 COLA has slightly increased the maximum benefit amounts for SNAP:
- Individual: Up to $292, up from $291.
- Family of Four: Up to $975, up from $973.
- Family of Eight: Up to $1,756.
This minor increase helps families adjust to rising living costs, even if it doesn’t fully offset inflation. SNAP benefits can be used alongside Social Security, SSDI, or SSI benefits, providing additional support for families navigating financial challenges.
For families of five and other SNAP recipients, the November 2024 payment schedule and eligibility guidelines provide a clear pathway to accessing essential financial assistance. With the COLA increase maintaining higher benefit levels, SNAP remains a critical program for millions of Americans. By knowing the application requirements and payment schedule, families can maximize their benefits and better manage their food expenses.
FAQs
What is the maximum SNAP for a family of 5?
A family of 5 can receive up to $1,158 monthly.
When are SNAP payments in California for November?
California SNAP payments are from Nov. 1 to Nov. 10.
What is the income limit for SNAP in CA?
The gross monthly income limit is $6,098 for a family of 5.
Do SNAP benefits include a COLA increase?
Yes, SNAP benefits include a 2025 COLA adjustment.
Can non-citizens receive SNAP?
Yes, some non-citizens meeting residency requirements qualify.
