Important Updates to SNAP Benefits: What You Need to Know

Date: 11/19/25

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, helps individuals and families with limited income buy nutritious food. Several important changes to SNAP are coming soon. It’s crucial to stay informed to avoid disruptions in your benefits.

What’s changing?

Starting November 1, 2025: Many legal non-U.S. citizens may no longer be eligible for SNAP benefits. Because the federal government shutdown continued past October 31, there were delays in SNAP recipients receiving their funding in November.

Beginning December 2025: New work requirements will go into effect for adults ages 18 to 64. To continue receiving SNAP benefits, you must report at least 80 hours per month of one or more of the following activities:

• Paid or unpaid work
• Participation in a SNAP Employment & Training program
• Volunteer service

You can combine these activities to meet the 80-hour requirement. If you do not meet this rule, you may lose your benefits for up to three years.

What you can do

SNAP rules and eligibility requirements are changing quickly. To stay up to date:

• Visit the IDHS website regularly for the latest updates.
• If you currently receive SNAP, continue to report:
  
  • Your work, training, and volunteer hours
  • Any changes in income or household members

If you’ve been laid off or had your work hours reduced, you may now qualify for SNAP. The application takes about 15 minutes and will ask for details about:

• People living in your household
• Housing costs
• Other monthly bills

Need Help Applying?

The Greater Chicago Food Depository offers free SNAP application assistance to all Illinois residents—you do not need to live in Chicago or Cook County to get help.

• Call 773-247-FOOD (3663)
• Or schedule an appointment online

Additional Resources

For more food assistance options, including local food pantries, visit our Eat Well, Be Well web page.