Baker-Polito Administration Announces SNAP Benefit Increase

BOSTON — The Baker-Polito administration announced that approximately 550,000 Massachusetts households who participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will see an increase starting in their October benefits. In response to the annual cost-of-living adjustment, SNAP benefits will increase 12%, with Massachusetts households receiving an average monthly increase of $25 to $30.

Every year, the federal government adjusts SNAP benefit amounts to keep pace with inflation. In addition, SNAP benefit levels are determined in part by the average cost of utilities for Massachusetts households. This summer, the Commonwealth requested and received approval from the federal government to adjust heating costs used to determine SNAP benefit amounts, reflecting the regional rise in the cost of utilities. This change will be reflected in the SNAP benefit amount increases starting Oct. 1.

“The Baker-Polito administration continues to leverage every opportunity to tackle food insecurity and maximize federal nutrition programs,” Secretary of Health and Human Services Marylou Sudders said. “Increasing SNAP benefit amounts to reflect residents’ cost of living, in addition to continuing SNAP emergency allotments and implementing free school meals for all Massachusetts students this year, represents the administration’s ongoing commitment to combating hunger across the Commonwealth.”