CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – Massachusetts residents who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will see an increase in maximum monthly allotments beginning Thursday as part of the federal government’s annual cost-of-living adjustment.
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the fiscal year 2027 adjustments, which include higher maximum SNAP benefits, increased minimum benefits and updated income eligibility standards for households in Massachusetts and other states.
Under the changes, the maximum monthly SNAP benefit for a family of four in Massachusetts will increase to $1,023, while a one-person household can receive up to $306 and a two-person household up to $562 per month. The minimum monthly benefit for eligible households in Massachusetts will rise $25.
Federal officials said the cost-of-living adjustments are required under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 and will take effect on October 1. The annual update is designed to reflect changes in living costs and affects SNAP benefit levels, income limits and several program deductions.
Income eligibility thresholds are also increasing. In Massachusetts, a household of four generally must have a gross income of $3,575 or less to qualify under the standard 130% of the federal poverty guidelines, while the net monthly income limit will be $2,750.
The standard deduction used to calculate benefits will increase to $217 per month for households of one to three people in Massachusetts. The maximum excess shelter deduction will rise to $769, while the maximum homeless shelter deduction will increase to $205.66.
The USDA said the asset limit for most households will remain $3,000, while the limit for households with at least one person age 60 or older or who is disabled will increase to $4,750.
The updated benefit and eligibility levels will remain in effect through September 30, 2027.
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