Today is October 27, Day 26 of the government shutdown—and 40 million Americans who rely on SNAP food stamps face their biggest crisis yet. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s really happening, what you need to do next, and what could happen to your food benefits.nbcnews+1
What’s Happening Right Now?
- The shutdown started October 1, 2025, and is now the second-longest in US history.cbsnews
- SNAP (food stamps) is federally funded. Existing benefits through October are safe, but November is at risk.otda.ny+2
- The USDA confirmed this weekend: “At this time, there will be no benefits issued November 01. The well has run dry,” unless a funding deal passes soon.nbcnews+1
- About 42 million people use SNAP each month—average household benefit: $356.aljazeera
Crisis Timeline for SNAP Recipients
| Date | What Happens | Impacted People |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 31, 2025 | Last loaded SNAP benefits | All households nationwide |
| Nov 1, 2025 | No new benefits until funding | 42 million Americans nbcnews+1 |
| Shutdown ends | Missed payments reimbursed | Benefits delayed, not cut off thearc |
What You Need to Know
1. October benefits are SAFE.
If you received October SNAP funding, it remains on your EBT card and can be used.
2. November (and beyond) at risk.
Unless Congress acts right now, new funds will NOT be loaded in November. If shutdown continues, no new payments for food stamps/EBT beyond current balances.otda.ny+2
3. You can still apply for SNAP.
Most state offices (ex: NY, TX) still accept applications and recertifications online/in person. New approvals after November 1 may be delayed until shutdown ends.otda.ny+1
4. No state can pay SNAP on its own during shutdown.
Federal law blocks states from reimbursing SNAP costs; all payments must come from Congress/USDA.axios
Human Impact
“I’ve got $67 left on my EBT card. If nothing loads Friday, I don’t know how I’ll feed my three kids. The food bank told me they’re running out too.” — SNAP Recipient, Texasthearc+1
Food banks are overwhelmed, providing just one out of every nine meals SNAP covers. If SNAP stalls, millions will run out of money for groceries—possibly within days.thearc
Many disabled people, families, and seniors face impossible choices: food, medicine, rent, or power as funds run out.aljazeera
What Can You Do Right Now?
- Spend wisely: Stretch all remaining SNAP funds.
- Check balances/chat with EBT customer service: Use mybenefits.ny.gov, Texas EBT, or your state’s SNAP portal for updates.
- Recertify/apply now: Even if processing is delayed, submitting now means your case will move faster when funding returns.thearc
- Update contact info: Make sure your SNAP office has your correct phone and address for urgent updates.
- Ask for exemption: If you’re disabled, ask for waiver from new work rules starting this month.thearc
Latest Statements and Policy Updates
USDA and the Trump administration blame Democrats for the impasse. Democrats say they won’t pass a funding bill without negotiations on Affordable Care Act benefits. Meanwhile, the Senate missed another deadline to extend funding Saturday.nbcnews+1
“Food is not optional. Every person deserves security—not fear.” — Nonprofit SNAP advocate, Day 26thearc
Will Food Stamps Resume Once the Shutdown Ends?
- Missed payments will be paid retroactively—no one loses benefits permanently.thearc
- If Congress acts this week, November EBT payments could load on time.
- If not, expect delays, but funds will not vanish forever.
Who Is Most Affected?
| Group | Why at Risk | Special Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Children/Families | Need meals daily | School meal programs stretched thearc |
| Disabled/elderly | Higher rates of food insecurity | May qualify for work rule exemption thearc |
| Rural areas | Few food banks | Risk running out fastest aljazeera |
| Cities | Food costs rising | Extra pressure on charities |
Fast Facts
- SNAP serves 1 in 8 Americans.aljazeera
- EBT average balance: $356/household.aljazeera
- Food banks provide only 1/9th as much aid as SNAP.thearc
- Congress could restore funding in hours, but has missed 12 deadlines.
Bottom Line:
SNAP food aid will run out for 40+ million unless the shutdown ends or Congress passes new funding before Friday. Track your EBT card, save your balance, and stay connected to your local SNAP office for updates.
“We are at a critical point. Millions will go hungry if politics come before food security.” — Community advocate, October 27cbsnews+1
If you’re struggling, reach out to your local food bank, charity, or SNAP office—and don’t lose hope. Benefits will eventually return, but tough days are ahead unless action is taken now.
