New Jersey SNAP Benefits Undergo Changes in March 2023: Here's What You Need to Know

February 2023 is the last month households enrolled in the NJ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will receive emergency SNAP benefits.

-

New Jersey Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients are set to receive a change in their monthly benefits as the emergency support provided by the federal government during the COVID-19 pandemic is set to expire in February 2023.

From March 2023, beneficiaries will only receive their regular monthly benefit amount, unless their approved monthly SNAP benefit is less than $50, in which case they will receive a supplemental payment from NJ SNAP to bring the total benefit up to $50.

SNAP households are encouraged to check their benefits prior to their next grocery trip by either logging into the online portal, using the Connect EBT mobile app, or calling 800-997-3333.

Additionally, more college students in New Jersey may be eligible for SNAP. To be eligible, students must be enrolled in an institution of higher education for at least half-time, and either participate in a state or federally-financed work-study program or have an expected family contribution of $0 in the current academic year as determined by the Higher Education Act.

This expanded eligibility for college students is available as long as the federal public health state of emergency remains in place and for 30 days after it expires. For more information on SNAP eligibility for college students, visit the “Who is Eligible” section of Get SNAP at www.NJSNAP.gov.

New Jersey SNAP recipients are advised to check their benefits in preparation for the changes to take effect in March 2023, and college students are encouraged to explore their eligibility for the program. The state is working to ensure that those in need receive the support they require to put food on the table.