As 2026 begins, millions of Americans relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) face a transformed landscape of benefits and eligibility rules.1 Following the passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act in July 2025 and the implementation of provisions from earlier fiscal agreements, the program formerly known as food stamps is undergoing its most significant structural changes in decades.2 While a modest Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) offers some financial relief, stricter work requirements and new state-level purchase restrictions are set to redefine who qualifies for aid and what they can buy.3
This article outlines the critical updates taking effect in January 2026, helping current and future recipients navigate these new hurdles to ensure they maintain their essential food security.
Expanded Work Requirements for Older Adults
The most immediate change affecting households is the expansion of work requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs).4 Starting January 1, 2026, the age bracket for mandatory work rules has widened significantly.5 Previously capped at age 54, the requirement now extends to adults aged 18 to 64.6
To maintain eligibility, individuals in this age group must document at least 80 hours of work, volunteering, or job training per month.7 Failure to meet this threshold for three months within a three-year period will result in a loss of benefits.8 While exemptions remain for those who are pregnant, medically certified as unable to work, or caring for a dependent under age 14, older adults who were previously “aged out” of these rules must now actively seek employment or community service opportunities to keep their benefits.
Tightened Exemptions for Vulnerable Groups
In addition to age adjustments, 2026 brings stricter oversight for groups that were historically exempt.9 Previous protections for veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness, and former foster youth are facing new scrutiny.10 Under the new federal guidelines, automatic exemptions for these categories have been narrowed.
Many recipients in these groups may now need to provide additional documentation to prove their exempt status or potentially face the same 80-hour work requirement as the general ABAWD population.11 Advocacy groups warn that this added layer of bureaucracy could lead to “churn”—where eligible recipients temporarily lose benefits due to paperwork errors or missed deadlines—making it vital for recipients to respond immediately to any notices from their state agency.
New “Junk Food” Purchase Bans in Select States
One of the most controversial shifts in 2026 is the implementation of state-specific waivers that restrict what can be purchased with SNAP EBT cards.12 Leveraging the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, over a dozen states—including Florida, Missouri, Texas, and Arkansas—have received USDA approval to ban the purchase of “non-essential” items.In these states, SNAP benefits can no longer be used to buy soda, candy, and certain processed snacks containing high amounts of added sugar.13 The goal, according to proponents, is to improve public health outcomes.14 However, critics argue this creates a confusing patchwork of rules where a loaf of bread is eligible in one state but a granola bar might be flagged in another. Recipients in affected states should check their local Department of Human Services website for a specific list of prohibited items to avoid checkout denials.
2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
Amidst the restrictions, there is a financial silver lining. Effective October 2025 for the 2026 fiscal year, SNAP maximum allotments have seen a 2.8% increase due to the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment. This boost is intended to help families keep pace with inflation, though many argue it barely offsets the rising cost of groceries.
The table below breaks down the new maximum monthly allotments for households in the 48 contiguous states and D.C., reflecting the 2026 adjustment.15
SNAP Maximum Monthly Allotments (Fiscal Year 2026)
| Household Size | Max Monthly Benefit (2025) | Max Monthly Benefit (2026) |
| 1 Person | $292 | $300 |
| 2 People | $536 | $551 |
| 3 People | $768 | $790 |
| 4 People | $975 | $1,002 |
| 5 People | $1,158 | $1,190 |
| 6 People | $1,390 | $1,429 |
| 7 People | $1,536 | $1,579 |
| 8 People | $1,756 | $1,805 |
| Each Add’l Person | +$220 | +$226 |
Administrative Funding Cuts and Support Issues
Behind the scenes, states are grappling with reduced federal funding for SNAP administration.16 The federal match for administrative costs—which pays for the staff who process applications and answer phones—is scheduled to drop from 50% to 25% later this year.17
For recipients, this likely means longer wait times on helplines and slower processing for new applications or renewals. With state agencies understaffed and overwhelmed by the new work requirement paperwork, it is more important than ever to submit documents online where possible and keep digital copies of all submitted verifications.
Navigating the Changes: What You Must Do
To protect your benefits in 2026, proactive communication is key. If you fall into the 55-64 age range, do not wait for a cutoff notice. Contact your caseworker to verify if you are subject to the new work rules or if you qualify for a medical or caregiver exemption.
Additionally, if you live in a state implementing food bans, familiarize yourself with the new prohibited list to plan your grocery trips effectively. These changes are federal mandates filtered through state agencies, meaning the specific application of the rules can vary depending on where you live. Staying informed and responsive is your best defense against an unexpected interruption in aid.
FAQs
Q1: Will I lose my benefits if I am 60 years old and unemployed?
A: Possibly. Starting in 2026, the work requirement age limit extends to 64.18 Unless you have a disability, are caring for a child under 14, or meet another exemption, you may need to document 80 hours of work or volunteering per month to keep benefits for more than 3 months.19
Q2: Can I still buy soda with my EBT card?
A: It depends on your state. As of January 2026, approximately 12-18 states (like FL, TX, MO) have implemented waivers banning the purchase of soda and candy with SNAP funds. In states without these waivers, you can still purchase these items.
Q3: Did the benefit amount go up for 2026?
A: Yes. There was a roughly 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).20 For a family of four, the maximum benefit increased from roughly $975 to just over $1,000 per month.21
Disclaimer: The content is intended for informational purposes only. You can check the official sources; our aim is to provide accurate information to all users.
