Thousands of families in Kentucky rely on SNAP benefits to help with their monthly grocery bills. These benefits, also known as “food stamps,” are part of a government program that gives money to low-income households to buy food. In May 2025, regular payments are being distributed, and residents of 13 counties recently hit by natural disasters will also get extra support through emergency D-SNAP benefits.
Let’s break down who is eligible, how to apply, and what the schedule looks like for this month.
What Are SNAP and D-SNAP Benefits?
SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It provides monthly help to buy groceries using an EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card. Each state runs its own schedule based on its population and systems. In some states, payments happen over just a few days. In others, like Kentucky, they are spread out across 19 days.
D-SNAP stands for Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. This gives extra food aid to people affected by natural disasters such as floods, storms, or other emergencies.
13 Kentucky Counties to Receive Extra Help After Storms
In May 2025, people living in 13 counties in Kentucky that were hit by heavy storms and flooding can now apply for Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) and Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).
The affected counties are:
Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen, and Woodford.
People who lost their jobs or income because of the disaster can apply for DUA—even farmers or the self-employed, who don’t normally qualify for unemployment benefits. Applications for DUA must be submitted by June 23, 2025, at kcc.ky.gov or by calling 502-564-2900.
When Can You Apply for D-SNAP in Kentucky?
D-SNAP applications in Kentucky will be open from May 7 to May 14, 2025, except on May 11.
To apply, call 855-306-8959 during these hours (Eastern Time):
Monday to Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
SNAP and D-SNAP benefits in Kentucky are handled by the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS). You can apply for benefits online at kynect.ky.gov or visit a local DCBS office.
May 2025 SNAP Benefits Payment Schedule in Kentucky
In Kentucky, SNAP benefits are sent based on the last digit of your case number, from the 1st to the 19th of the month:
Case ends in 0 – May 1
Case ends in 1 – May 3
Case ends in 2 – May 5
Case ends in 3 – May 7
Case ends in 4 – May 9
Case ends in 5 – May 11
Case ends in 6 – May 13
Case ends in 7 – May 15
Case ends in 8 – May 17
Case ends in 9 – May 19
This system helps spread out the workload and ensures faster service.
Important Reminders for SNAP Households
Families receiving SNAP must report any major changes twice a year, such as a new family member, income changes, or moving to a new place. Some changes, like earning more than the income limit or reduced working hours for non-disabled adults, must be reported within 10 days.
Lost or Stolen EBT Card? Here’s What to Do
If your EBT card is lost or stolen in Kentucky, call 1-888-979-9949 immediately.
If your benefits were stolen through electronic theft (like skimming), you may qualify for a refund—but only if it happened after October 2022. Quick reporting and changing your PIN are important steps to protect your money.
SNAP and D-SNAP benefits continue to provide critical support to thousands of Kentucky residents, especially in times of crisis. If you’re from one of the 13 counties hit by recent floods, don’t miss your chance to apply for D-SNAP and DUA. Also, keep track of your payment date and make sure your details are updated with DCBS. These benefits can be a big help during tough times—know your rights and get the support you’re eligible for.
