SNAP runs out of money Nov. 1. States are now figuring out how to feed millions of people

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The federal government shutdown continues without an end in sight. In just a few days, tens of millions of people are at risk of losing federal food and nutrition benefits as a result. This includes the nearly 42 million people who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, previously known as food stamps.

The Trump administration has warned that the debit-like EBT cards will not be refilled and that the program will run out of money on Nov. 1.

SNAP, the country's largest anti-hunger program, dates back to the Great Depression and has never been disrupted this way. Most recipients are seniors, families with kids and people with disabilities.

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Individual states handle the distribution, while the federal government provides the funds and infrastructure that power the debit-like cards.

Are you worried about your SNAP benefits? NPR wants to hear your story

In a letter dated Oct. 10, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) told state agencies to hold off distributing November benefits "until further notice" because of insufficient funds. The left-leaning Center on Budget and Policy Priorities has called on the agency to shift money from its contingency fund and other places to keep SNAP at least partially funded. It contends the USDA has a legal obligation to do so since SNAP is an entitlement program. But the USDA rejects that argument, stating in a memo Friday that its contingency funds are "not legally available" to extend regular benefits and are meant only for "natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods."

As NPR's Stephen Fowler reports, a coalition of more than two dozen Democratic state leaders are suing the Trump administration over its decision to suspend federal food benefits during the government shutdown.

Now, as November looms, states are trying to sort what options they can offer beneficiaries to fill the gap in food assistance.

— Jennifer Ludden, NPR

Reporters from the NPR Network are covering the impact of this potential lapse in states across the country.

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Here's what we know so far.

Alabama

Roughly 749,000 people participate in SNAP in Alabama, according to the USDA.

in SNAP in Alabama, according to the USDA. Alabama's Department of Human Resources (DHR), the agency responsible for SNAP in the state, says on its website that individuals can still apply for SNAP benefits during the suspension and DHR will continue to process applications and determine eligibility. Benefits will not be issued until the suspension is lifted.

individuals can still apply for SNAP benefits during the suspension and DHR will continue to process applications and determine eligibility. Benefits will not be issued until the suspension is lifted. Current SNAP recipients, however, "must continue to recertify their benefits, report as they normally would, and submit all documentation that would normally be required for them to continue in the program," DHR says. This is necessary so that each SNAP recipient can more quickly use their November funds in the grocery stores.

Alaska

Roughly 66,000 people participate in SNAP in Alaska, according to the USDA.

in SNAP in Alaska, according to the USDA. Alaskans will not receive SNAP benefits for November, according to the state Division of Public Assistance, unless the federal government shutdown ends before then. [ Alaska Public Media ]

] Officials say the division will continue adding SNAP beneficiaries during the shutdown and Alaskans who lost food because of Typhoon Halong in western Alaska can apply to get October SNAP benefits re-issued. Michelle DeWitt, executive director of Bethel Community Services Foundation, said the state's formal food security safety nets are already stretched thin in the wake of the early October storm. [ Alaska Public Media ]

Arizona

More than 887,000 people participate in SNAP in Arizona, according to the USDA.

in SNAP in Arizona, according to the USDA. The Arizona Department of Economic Security, which administers SNAP in the state, is directing Arizona SNAP recipients to local food banks if they need immediate food assistance. Food banks in Arizona can be found through the Arizona Food Bank Network . [ KJZZ ]

Arkansas

Roughly 236,000 people participate in SNAP in Arkansas, according to the USDA.

in SNAP in Arkansas, according to the USDA. Arkansas' Department of Human Services says SNAP beneficiaries should prepare for a delay or disruption in November benefits, according to an Oct. 22 post on the agency website. The agency is awaiting further guidance from USDA.

should prepare for a delay or disruption in November benefits, according to an Oct. 22 post on the agency website. The agency is awaiting further guidance from USDA. On X , Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders echoed Republican talking points, blaming Democrats for the shutdown and the impact on SNAP beneficiaries in her state.