Millions of Americans who receive food assistance could see slightly higher benefits beginning Oct. 1 as new federal cost-of-living adjustments take effect for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The Department of Agriculture adjusts SNAP benefit levels and eligibility standards annually at the start of the federal fiscal year. For fiscal 2027, maximum benefits will increase by about 3% for households in the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C., reflecting changes in food costs.