NORTHERN MICHIGAN – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says federal funding issues may delay or reduce November SNAP benefits for 42 million Americans nationwide.
The delay could put many Michiganders at risk of food insecurity. SNAP, the nation’s largest food assistance program, helps families and individuals buy food and is one of the most effective tools to reduce hunger. Nearly 13% of Michigan households — about 1.4 million people — receive benefits. About 43% of those households include children, and 36% include older adults or people with disabilities.
“The impact of households losing SNAP benefits will be felt around the state,” said MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel. “SNAP is more than a food assistance program; it’s a lifeline for many Michigan families. It helps put nutritious food on the table, supports local farmers and grocers, and strengthens our communities and economy. We are strongly disappointed by the USDA’s decision to delay this assistance, and in Michigan we will do what we can to help blunt this impact.”
SNAP participants should contact their local MDHHS office or check MI Bridges for updates.
Additional Resources
- Dial 2-1-1 or visit Find Help – Michigan 2-1-1 for free, confidential referrals to food programs and support services.
- Visit the Food Bank Council of Michigan to locate nearby food banks and hunger relief efforts.
How SNAP Works
FNS oversees SNAP federally, while states determine eligibility and distribute benefits. SNAP funds are loaded onto electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards that can be used at grocery and convenience stores, farmers markets and other retailers, circulating money into local economies.
SNAP spending supports grocers, farmers and related businesses, helping pay local wages and taxes. A 2021 study found that infants and children in SNAP families are more likely to receive regular checkups, and older adults using SNAP are more likely to take full dosages of prescription medication because they can afford both food and medicine.
According to the National Grocers Association, SNAP funding supports about 388,000 jobs, more than $20 billion in wages, and $4.5 billion in state and federal tax revenue.
SNAP in Michigan
In fiscal year 2024, the average Michigan SNAP household received $335 per month, or about $173 per person — roughly $5.68 per day.
- 492,225 children benefit from SNAP.
- 38,513 veterans participate.
- 36% of households include older adults.
- 43% include children.
- 51% include someone with a disability.
- 78% include someone with earned income.
More than 9,700 retailers in Michigan accept SNAP. In 2023, they redeemed over $3.6 billion in benefits.
Eligibility
To qualify for SNAP in Michigan, applicants must be U.S. citizens (or eligible non-citizens) and Michigan residents. Eligibility depends on household income, assets and expenses, including rent, mortgage, utilities, child support and dependent care. For people with disabilities or those age 60 and older, medical expenses and insurance premiums may also be counted.
