Full SNAP Benefits to Be Issued in November on Schedule, DSS Confirms

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - The South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) has confirmed that the full allotment of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will be issued to enrolled recipients in November. DSS is projecting a payment date of Monday, November 10, which is the normal date recipients receive benefits.

The announcement follows a period where the department closely monitored ongoing litigation and awaited payment guidance from the federal Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) due to the potential threat of a federal government shutdown disrupting the aid. DSS confirmed that it has received the necessary information to proceed with issuing full benefits.

“We understand how important these benefits are to families across South Dakota,” said Matt Althoff, DSS Cabinet Secretary. “Knowing this reliance, there is a relief within our department that the federal shutdown will not impact the families who have qualified for the aid we administer. SNAP administration is one of DSS’s core responsibilities because of the access to food—a basic need—for those who need it most.”

DSS is working to issue benefits to approximately 37,000 South Dakota households by the 10th of the month. In September, the average household benefit amount in the state was roughly $390, with total SNAP benefits paid that month reaching nearly $15 million.

The prospect of a disruption to SNAP benefits spurred a significant charitable response from feeding ministries, South Dakotans who financially support them, and many grocers and retailers who offered assistance through discounted meals and gift cards. DSS extended its sincere appreciation for this generous giving, which was directed to the same population segment served by the department.

DSS noted that any delays to the projected payment schedule will be communicated as soon as they are known.