Important SNAP Updates

In late 2025, SNAP in Massachusetts experienced a temporary federal shutdown disruption and a one-time change from the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." The federal shutdown caused delayed November benefits, which have since been restored. The act's changes will be implemented on a rolling basis at each client's annual recertification, and recipients will be notified if they are affected. 

Recent November 2025 changes 

• Benefit restoration: After a temporary federal shutdown, all November SNAP benefits were restored and distributed in full, with some households receiving them on time and others receiving them during the week of November 10-14.
• Federal legislation: The "One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025" made changes to SNAP that will be implemented in Massachusetts on a rolling basis as clients undergo their annual recertification.
• Notification: Clients will be notified by the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) when they need to recertify and if any of the new changes apply to them. 

Other important updates

• New applications: Despite the recent disruptions, the DTA is still processing new SNAP applications.
• HIP: The Heating and Insulation Program (HIP) continues to be available for eligible households.
• Emergency resources: During the benefit delay, state and local organizations provided resources to help those in need, and the state has launched a SNAP Response Hub for more information