HONOLULU (KHON2) — On Oct. 24, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for the month of November will be suspended on Nov. 1 — citing the government shutdown.
“Our teams are working quickly to provide timely information, answer questions and coordinate local community food resources,” said Ryan Yamane, director of the Hawaiʻi Department of Human Services. “We will be ready to resume issuances as soon as the federal government allows.”
The DHS has answers regarding how SNAP benefits are impacted.
FAQs
Here are the Frequently Asked Questions listed on their website:
Will I still be able to use my current SNAP benefits already loaded onto my EBT card from October or past months?
Yes. As long as retailers remain authorized by the USDA to accept SNAP, you can continue to use any benefits currently on your EBT card. If you have remaining balances from previous months, plan your shopping carefully and purchase essential food items when needed.
How will November SNAP benefits be impacted by the continuing federal government shutdown?
Regular SNAP benefits are usually issued on the 3rd or 5th day of each month depending on your last name. If the shutdown continues into November, no new SNAP benefits can be issued until the federal government reopens.
People who were approved for Expedited SNAP benefits, also called emergency food benefits, in October will receive October prorated benefits, but November benefits cannot be issued until the federal government reopens.
What should I do to prepare for a delay in SNAP benefits?
- Use your current benefits to purchase shelf-stable foods or essentials.
- Check your EBT balance regularly.
- Stay tuned to official updates from DHS or USDA — and avoid relying on social media rumors.
- Reach out to community food banks or local food pantries if you need immediate support.
Would other benefits on my EBT card, like TANF or General Assistance, be affected?
No. Cash benefits — such as TANF, General Assistance (GA), or other cash programs — would remain accessible through your EBT card, even if SNAP benefits are not issued. You will still receive cash benefits and be able to use those benefits where EBT cash is accepted, including at ATMs and some retailers.
If November benefits are not issued, will I still be required to complete my recertification, six month report form or to report changes to the department?
Eligibility is not affected and households will remain certified for SNAP. New applicants may be approved as DHS will still continue to process applications, recertifications and changes, even though benefits may not be issued.
This means that if you are scheduled for an interview or recertification, you are still responsible to call or walk-in to complete your interview. If you are a change reporting household, you will still be expected to report changes to the Department.
If you are unsure and have a question regarding your case, call the Public Assistance Information Line at 1-855-643-1643 or walk into a Processing Center for help.
Where can I find updates or ask questions?
For the most current information, check the DHS website.
You can also call the Public Assistance Information Line: 1-855-643-1643.
Food resources
- Eight nonprofits contracted across the islands, which conduct outreach to households eligible for SNAP benefits and provide referral assistance for food resources in the community.
- A SNAP outreach provider with a database that can provide referrals to helpful community food resources.