How the New Year May Affect Your SNAP Benefits: An Emergency Allotment Update

SNAP emergency allotments helped South Carolina families afford food during the pandemic. As we continue to navigate post-pandemic life in 2023, there are some important updates to SNAP benefits that families need to know. 

South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) recently announced an end to the federally-approved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) emergency allotments (supplements) to all South Carolina households.

Since March 2020, the assignment of emergency SNAP allotments (supplements) has brought all authorized households up to the maximum benefit allotment based on household size. Here is what you need to know about the changes you may see with your SNAP benefits.

Why are SNAP emergency allotments ending?

January 2023 is South Carolina’s ‘transition’ month before returning to normal SNAP benefit allotments for all households as approved by the United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Services.

When will I go back to receiving my regular SNAP benefits?

Effective February 1, 2023, all SNAP households will go back to receiving their regular monthly benefit amount.

Will my regular SNAP benefit amount change?

A household’s regular SNAP benefits will not change due to the ending of the emergency allotments. If you are unsure of your regular benefit amount beginning January 3, 2023, SNAP recipients can view their regular monthly SNAP benefit amount and their emergency allotment amount online using the DSS Portal HERE.

Are SNAP emergency allotments subject to fair hearings?

Emergency allotments are NOT subject to fair hearings, according to SCDSS.

I am not a SNAP recipient, but I would like help paying for food. How do I apply?

You can easily apply for SNAP over the phone by calling our Contact Center at 800.726.8774. A trained Benefits Counselor will help you apply over the phone. In addition, you can learn more about SNAP benefits that can help your family HERE.