Federal Government Shutdown

On November 6, 2025, a U.S. District Court ordered the federal government to issue full November SNAP benefit payments to eligible households. New York is completing the necessary steps to issue full SNAP benefits to all eligible households. OTDA expects to begin issuing full SNAP benefits this weekend and some New Yorkers could have access to their benefits as soon as Sunday, November 9. More details will be shared as they become available. For more information, visit: otda.ny.gov/shutdown-resources

Call your member of Congress now to let them know how these cuts would impact you, your family, and your community.

Last updated: November 7, 2025, 4:45 PM

November SNAP Benefits

OTDA Home SNAP Benefits Shutdown Frequently Asked Questions

Federal Government Shutdown: November SNAP Benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do federal government shutdowns affect SNAP benefits?

SNAP benefits are funded by the federal government through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). When the federal government shuts down, the money needed for New York State to pay for SNAP benefits may not be available, which could delay your monthly benefits.

How will the federal government shutdown affect my November SNAP benefits?

Due to the federal government shutdown, November SNAP benefits will not be issued at this time. This includes regular November benefits, and any other expedited or prior month SNAP benefits issued after November 1. SNAP benefits cannot be issued until the federal government shutdown ends or other federal funding is provided. The Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) will continue to update this webpage as more information becomes available.

When will November SNAP benefits be issued?

OTDA does not know the exact date when November SNAP benefits will be issued. It depends on when the federal government makes the funds available. Even if November benefits are issued late, SNAP recipients will eventually receive any missed benefits. OTDA will update this webpage as soon as we receive updated guidance from the federal government. Once the shutdown ends or federal SNAP funding is provided, it will take a few days to begin to issue November benefits.

How and when will I know the status of November benefits?

Updates about November SNAP benefits will continue to be posted on this webpage, NYC ACCESS HRA, myBenefits, the ebtEDGE app, and via text message. Please note, OTDA will not mail SNAP participants letters informing them of a delay in benefits due to the federal government shutdown.

Will my EBT card still work in November?

Yes, your Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card will still work in November. While you will not get your November SNAP benefits until the federal government shutdown ends or other federal funding is provided, any unused SNAP benefits received previously will still be available. The Public Assistance (PA) program will continue to operate as usual.

You can use any remaining previously issued SNAP benefits at all authorized retailers and farmers markets. You can check your balance by:

  • Looking at your last receipt.
  • Calling the customer service helpline at 1-888-328-6399
  • Checking your EBT account online at www.ebtEDGE.com.
  • Using the ebtEDGE mobile app.

Important: Be sure to freeze your card between purchases and follow these tips to secure your EBT card and protect your benefits from theft.

Can I apply for SNAP during the federal government shutdown if I do not already receive benefits?

Yes. Applications for SNAP will continue to be accepted. However, if you are approved for SNAP during the federal government shutdown, you may not receive benefits until the shutdown ends. You can apply for SNAP online at myBenefits, or in person at your local SNAP office, or by mail.

Do I still have to meet SNAP requirements during the federal government shutdown?

Yes, you still need to follow all SNAP rules, like completing your recertification, submitting reports, and informing your local SNAP office of certain changes in your household's circumstances. Please refer to the SNAP Change Report Form for information about the change reporting rules that apply to your household or contact your local SNAP office if you have further questions.

What if I need to recertify for SNAP and have not yet submitted my recertification application?

It is important to submit your recertification application as soon as possible. SNAP participants must continue to meet program requirements to remain eligible for benefits. You can submit your recertification online at myBenefits, in person or by mail. For more information about SNAP eligibility and how to recertify visit: otda.ny.gov/snap.

Why did I receive a notice in the mail that says I am eligible for November SNAP benefits?

If you recently applied or recertified for SNAP, you may still receive a SNAP notice in the mail telling you that you have been approved for SNAP benefits in November. However, these benefits will not be issued until the federal government shutdown ends or other federal funding is provided.

Can I request a fair hearing if my SNAP benefits are delayed due to the federal government shutdown?

Fair hearing requests due to the federal government shutdown will not be scheduled. OTDA cannot issue SNAP benefits until the federal government shutdown ends, or other federal funding is provided.

Will the federal government shutdown affect other New York State benefits or services in November?

Due to the federal government shutdown and the lack of federal funding, the start of applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Regular benefit has been delayed until November 17, 2025. Note: This date is contingent on federal action to fund the program and timely notification from the United States Department of Health and Human Services regarding New York State's allocation. OTDA will issue updated guidance as additional information becomes available.

Public Assistance applications and recertifications should be processed as normal. PA benefits are not impacted by the federal government shutdown.

Does the federal government shutdown affect Summer EBT benefits?

No, Summer EBT benefits will not be affected by the federal government shutdown. Families have 122 days to use those benefits from the day they show up on your EBT card. For more information, visit the New York's Summer EBT webpage.

Will the federal government shutdown affect the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program?

For information on how the federal government shutdown will impact WIC operations in New York State. Visit Frequently Asked Questions About WIC for the latest information.

Are there other resources that can help me get food?

Yes. To find help getting food, visit:

Here are additional food resources that can be accessed by phone:

  • Call the USDA National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE (Spanish)
  • Call 211 for New York State Residents
  • Call 311 if you live in New York City
  • Text 914-342-7744 and type in the word

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