The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) has announced the May 2025 SNAP payments schedule, which follows the usual distribution process to ensure that the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system operates smoothly and prevents overcrowding at points of sale. For May 2025, SNAP benefits will be distributed between May 3 and May 10 based on the case number of each recipient.
How SNAP Payment Dates Are Determined
In Florida, SNAP payments are staggered throughout the month to avoid overwhelming the EBT system. The payment date is determined by the 8th and 9th digits of your case number, which are reversed to form a pair of digits that correspond to a specific date in the month of May.
Here is how the payment dates break down for May 2025:
- If your case number ends in digits 07–10: Benefits available on May 3
- If your case number ends in digits 11–13: Benefits available on May 4
- If your case number ends in digits 14–17: Benefits available on May 5
- If your case number ends in digits 18–20: Benefits available on May 6
- If your case number ends in digits 21–24: Benefits available on May 7
- If your case number ends in digits 25–27: Benefits available on May 8
- If your case number ends in digits 28–31: Benefits available on May 9
- If your case number ends in digits 32–34: Benefits available on May 10
These dates ensure that payments are spaced out, helping manage the demand on the EBT system and the points of sale where benefits are used.
Increased SNAP Benefits for Florida in 2025
As part of the 2025 fiscal year adjustments, the maximum benefit limits for SNAP have increased in response to the rising cost of living. The new maximum benefit amounts for Florida residents are as follows:
- 1 person: $292 (monthly maximum)
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,158
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
For each additional person, the monthly maximum increases by $220. The estimated monthly average for benefits is lower than the maximum amount and depends on household income and deductions.
The net income of a household (after deductions for housing, child care, and medical expenses) determines the final benefit amount. This means that two households of the same size could receive different benefit amounts based on their individual financial situations.
Eligibility for SNAP Benefits in Florida
To qualify for SNAP in Florida, applicants must meet specific income requirements:
- Gross income should be at or below 165% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
- Net income must be at 100% of the FPL, or slightly above for those with elderly or disabled household members.
In addition, there is a resource limit of $2,000 for assets, which increases to $3,000 if the household includes elderly or disabled members. Certain assets like the primary home and a vehicle are not counted as resources.
For adults aged 18 to 49 without dependents, they must work at least 20 hours per week or be enrolled in the SNAP Employment & Training (E&T) program unless exempted for reasons such as disability or full-time education.
Recertification of SNAP Benefits in Florida
In Florida, most households are required to recertify their SNAP benefits every six months. However, there are exceptions:
- Households with only elderly or disabled members may have a 24-month recertification period, with an interim report required at 12 months.
- Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) typically recertify every four months.
Households will receive a notice about two months before their recertification period ends, reminding them to complete the process. Recertification can be done online through the MyACCESS portal, by mail, in person, or by phone.
What to Do if Your Payment is Delayed
If you experience any delays or errors in your SNAP payment, you can check the status through the MyACCESS portal or refer to official correspondence from the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). If you cannot find the information you need, or if you notice any discrepancies, you can contact DCF at 1-866-762-2237 for assistance.
