Tighter Eligibility for Immigrants
The reforms also significantly narrow SNAP access for non-citizens. Previously, certain long-term residents—such as individuals admitted before June 30, 1948, those granted deferred deportation, or those entering under federal parole—could qualify for benefits.
The new legislation eliminates most of these eligibility pathways, limiting SNAP primarily to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs). While a small number of humanitarian exceptions remain, many undocumented and legally present immigrants will lose access.
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) estimates that roughly 90,000 people per month will become ineligible due to these changes.
Defending the policy, the White House stated:
“Illegal immigrants cost taxpayers billions in free healthcare and welfare. The One Big Beautiful Bill ends SNAP and Medicaid fraud, ensuring these programs serve only eligible Americans.”
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has acknowledged the shift, noting on its website:
“This update modifies non-citizen eligibility for SNAP. Further guidance will be issued.”
Changes to the Thrifty Food Plan (TFP)
Separately, beginning October 1, 2024, updates to the Thrifty Food Plan (TFP)—the formula used to calculate SNAP benefit amounts—will take effect. While standard cost-of-living adjustments for 2025 were approved (raising the maximum monthly benefit for a five-person household from $1,158 to $1,183), future revisions face new restrictions.
Under the new law:
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The next TFP review cannot occur before October 1, 2027
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All future updates must be cost-neutral, preventing increases in total program spending
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Annual cost-of-living adjustments will be capped based on household size
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A single TFP cost model must apply to all households, regardless of composition
These limitations reduce SNAP’s ability to respond to rising food prices or evolving nutritional research.
Increased Financial Pressure on States
States will also shoulder a significantly larger administrative burden. Currently, the federal government covers 50% of state administrative SNAP costs. Beginning October 1, 2026 (FY 2027), that share will drop to 25%, shifting millions in expenses to state budgets.
In addition, a new penalty system will require states to pay extra if their payment error rate exceeds 6%, including overpayments, underpayments, and improper enrollments.
Historically, this threshold has been difficult to meet. In FY 2024, only nine states maintained error rates below 6%, and nearly every state has exceeded that level at least once since 2003.
Florida officials estimate the reduced federal reimbursement alone could cost the state $50.6 million annually. When combined with potential penalties, total costs could approach $1 billion per year if error rates are not reduced.
Bridget Royster, Assistant Secretary for the Florida Department of Children and Families, recently told state lawmakers that her agency is working aggressively to lower error rates to avoid these steep financial consequences.
A Turning Point in U.S. Food Policy
The November implementation marks a pivotal moment in U.S. food assistance policy. Supporters argue the reforms promote efficiency, integrity, and workforce participation. Critics warn they may leave millions more Americans facing food insecurity at a time of persistent inflation and economic uncertainty.
As the changes roll out, their real-world impact will become clearer—both for the families who depend on SNAP and the states tasked with administering it.