Federal Government Shutdown

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown and the lack of federal funding, the start of applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) has been delayed until further notice. The shutdown is not yet affecting other programs overseen by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance — including Public Assistance and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Applications for Public Assistance and SNAP are continuing to be accepted, benefits are being provided, and use of benefit cards are not impacted at this time. If the shutdown continues into November, benefits for SNAP could be delayed. This message will be updated as additional information becomes available.

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Last updated: October 23, 2025, 9:10 AM

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.

Will my October SNAP benefits be affected by the government shutdown?

No, your October 2025 SNAP benefits will not be affected by the federal government shutdown. October benefits for ongoing participants were sent as usual and on time. People approved for SNAP during October will receive their benefits for the month.

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

On October 10, 2025, the federal government warned that there may not be enough funding to pay November SNAP benefits if the appropriation lapse continues past November 1. This means the federal government might not be able to cover the cost of SNAP benefits for the month of November. 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. 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, either before or after November 1, it will take a few days to issue November benefits.

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

OTDA will provide an update to SNAP households by November 1 about the status of November SNAP benefits. Updates will be posted on the OTDA website, 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.

How can I prepare for a delay in SNAP benefits due to the federal government shutdown?

Here's what you can do:

  • Check your EBT balance at www.ebtEDGE.com or via the ebtEDGE App. Any unused SNAP benefits will still be available after Nov. 1, 2025.
  • Know where you can find emergency food if needed.
  • Keep following all SNAP rules and reporting requirements from your local SNAP office.
  • Regularly check this website for updates.

If SNAP benefits are delayed, OTDA will provide updates via this webpage, myBenefits, ACCESS HRA, and inform households by text message. Please note, OTDA will not mail SNAP participants letters informing them of a delay in benefits due to the federal government shutdown.

Are there any restrictions on using my SNAP benefits during the federal government shutdown?

No, your EBT card will work as usual, and you can use your 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.
Will my EBT card still work in November?

Based on information available to OTDA, your EBT card will still work in November. If the federal government shutdown continues, you may not get your November SNAP benefits. However, unused SNAP benefits received previously will still be available. The Public Assistance program will continue to operate as usual.

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, 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.

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 (cash) 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:

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