Millions of households across the United States rely on SNAP benefits to help put food on the table, especially during a time when groceries and everyday living costs continue to rise. Beginning this November, updates to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will introduce new rules for the program, changing eligibility standards and benefit administration. These adjustments come at a time when many families are still managing tight budgets, and they are sparking both interest and concern about how support systems may evolve in the coming years.
Under the changes, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that federal SNAP spending will decrease by approximately $187 billion through 2034. Several policy shifts are included in the update, such as expanded work requirements for adults up to age 64, new guidelines on eligibility, and a gradual shift in some administrative responsibilities from the federal government to states. While individuals with medical limitations may continue to qualify under special circumstances, some previous exemptions — including certain groups who received automatic protections — will see modifications.
The new rules will also adjust who is eligible to receive assistance. Access will increasingly focus on U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, and benefit levels will be influenced by a temporary freeze on updates to the Thrifty Food Plan until 2027. After that, future updates must remain cost-neutral, meaning they cannot increase spending. States will also take on a greater share of program costs over time, a change that may lead to differing approaches in how assistance is managed and distributed across the country.
Supporters of the policy emphasize goals such as encouraging workforce participation and improving program accuracy, while advocacy groups express concern that some families could face challenges as they adapt to the new requirements. With more than 40 million Americans currently using SNAP, state agencies and service organizations are preparing for the transition. As implementation begins, many will be paying close attention to how the updates affect access to food support — and how communities can continue working together to assist households in need.
