TRENTON – New Jersey residents who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are being advised that their November payments may be delayed if the federal government shutdown continues, according to the state Department of Human Services.
Officials said SNAP benefits that were loaded onto Families First EBT cards before October 31 will still be available for use after November 1. However, no additional benefits will be issued until federal funding resumes.
Recipients are urged to check their balances at NJFamiliesFirst.com or by calling 800-997-3333 before visiting grocery stores after November 1.
Even if a recipient receives an eligibility notice or sees benefits listed in their MyNJHelps account, those funds will not be available until the shutdown ends. The department noted that because the delay is due to a federal shutdown, fair hearings will not be scheduled on this issue.
SNAP applications and recertifications will continue to be processed, and residents are encouraged to submit any requested documentation to ensure timely access to benefits once federal funding resumes.
Other programs will not be affected at this time. Work First New Jersey benefits are expected to be distributed on schedule, and payments through the Child Care Assistance Program and child support operations will continue without interruption.
For updates, visit NJSNAP.gov.
