From The Conversation · Tracy Roof · · 1m 40s
SNAP Enrollment Drops as States Adjust Benefits Rules
States face rising costs and stricter SNAP rules as fewer Americans access food assistance.
In brief
States face rising costs and stricter SNAP rules as fewer Americans access food assistance. SNAP enrollment fell 13% to 36.4 million Americans as states implement new work requirements and payment error costs. Originally reported by The Conversation.
SNAP enrollment declines
As of June 2026, the number of people enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program fell 13% to 36.4 million.
Children affected by decline
An estimated 1.5 million children no longer receive SNAP benefits.
President Trump's explanation
President Donald Trump says a strong economy has driven down demand for the program.
New federal law impacts SNAP
The president signed a tax-and-spending package in July 2025 that changed SNAP eligibility rules.
Work requirements expand
More people now get up to three months of benefits if they don’t work, train, or volunteer 80 hours monthly.
Age cutoff rises
Work requirements now apply to adults up to age 64, previously 54, and parents of children ages 14-17.
Arizona enrollment drops
Arizona saw enrollment fall by almost half as states struggle with new rules.
States pay more for SNAP
As of Oct. 1, 2026, states must pay 75% of administrative costs, up from 50%.
California's cost increase
California will pay $670 million more in administrative costs for the 2027 fiscal year.
Payment error rates
States calculate payment error rates to determine how much they must cover of SNAP benefits.
Error rate impacts costs
States with error rates over 10% must cover 15% of benefits costs, up from previous levels.
Farm bill delays
Democrats want a two-year delay for states to cover SNAP costs before the farm bill passes.
The key point
SNAP enrollment fell 13% to 36.4 million Americans as states implement new work requirements and payment error costs.
