New SNAP Cost-Sharing And Work Rules Take Effect October 1
New rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program go into effect Oct. 1, 2026, requiring states to pay 75% of administrative costs and tightening recipient work rules.[1]
Advocates warn the tighter work and cost-sharing rules could cut benefits for millions and strain state budgets.[1]
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, enacted in 2025, raised states' SNAP administrative share from 50% to 75% and added the stricter work and cost rules. The law requires most recipients aged 18 to 64 to work or volunteer at least 80 hours per month. Beginning October 2027, states with high SNAP payment error rates could be required to pay up to 15% of benefits that are currently fully federally funded. The Food Research & Action Center estimates about 5.7 million Americans have lost SNAP benefits since the law was enacted in 2025, and some states say the new costs could force program cuts or exits. Alabama's SNAP director warned potential penalty costs could reach about $174 million and said dropping the program was an option if states cannot contain expenses.
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📌 Key Facts
- On October 1, 2026, states’ required share of SNAP administrative costs increases from 50% to 75% under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
- Beginning in October 2027, states with high SNAP payment error rates may have to pay up to 15% of benefits that are now fully federally funded.
- The law requires SNAP recipients aged 18 to 64 to work or volunteer at least 80 hours per month, tightening work requirements that previously ended at a lower age.
- The Food Research & Action Center estimates about 5.7 million Americans have already lost SNAP benefits since the law was enacted in 2025.
- Alabama’s SNAP director has warned that potential error-rate penalties could cost the state about $174 million and has said dropping the program is one option if costs cannot be contained.
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