SNAP Payments Could Stop; EBT Cards May Fail

The federal government shutdown that began Oct. 1 threatens to pause SNAP/FoodShare/CalFresh benefits for roughly 40–42 million Americans beginning Nov. 1, after the USDA warned it lacks sufficient funds to cover full November benefits if the stalemate continues. USDA guidance indicates EBT cards may stop working even if recipients have a balance, potentially leaving many unable to access funds. At least 25 states have signaled they may suspend payments — including about 4.5 million recipients in California — and states such as Pennsylvania and Arizona have already halted or announced lapses until federal funding is restored. Food banks nationwide report sharply increased demand and say they cannot fully replace SNAP, with multiple local banks preparing emergency distributions and special “interruption” aid, while WIC remains funded for now. Officials are urging states to continue administrative work and advocates are calling for rapid congressional action or USDA measures to prevent widespread hunger as lawmakers remain gridlocked.