Sweeping changes to America’s food assistance program are on the table as former President Donald Trump’s proposed tax cuts take shape. While his administration has touted these cuts as a path to economic growth, they come with significant reductions to social safety nets, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The changes could shift financial responsibilities to states, expand work requirements, and reduce benefits for millions. Here’s a breakdown of what’s at stake.
What Is SNAP and Why It Matters
SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, helps low-income individuals and families afford groceries. The program was renamed in 2008 and currently serves over 42 million Americans—roughly one in eight people. Benefits are provided via electronic debit cards and can be used to purchase most food items.
To qualify, a single person typically must earn less than $1,632 monthly, or $3,380 for a household of four. The average household benefit as of early 2025 is about $353 per month.
Proposed SNAP Changes Under Trump’s Tax Plan
The proposed legislation, part of what Trump has dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” aims to reduce federal spending by $295 billion over the next decade—half of that from SNAP. Here’s how:
1. Shifting Costs to States
Currently, the federal government covers all SNAP food benefit costs and splits administrative costs with states. The new plan would require states to:
- Cover 75% of administrative costs
- Start paying at least 5% of food benefit costs by 2028
- Pay more if their error rates exceed certain thresholds
| Error Rate | State Share of Food Costs |
|---|---|
| Under 6% | 5% |
| 6–8% | 15% |
| 8–10% | 20% |
| Over 10% | 25% |
Given that the national error rate was 11.7% in 2023, most states could face a substantial increase in their SNAP-related expenses.
2. Expanded Work Requirements
Current rules require able-bodied adults aged 18–54 without dependents to work or participate in training for at least 80 hours a month. The new bill would:
- Expand this requirement to those aged 55–64
- Extend it to parents without children under age 7
- Limit states’ ability to waive work rules in areas with high unemployment
These changes are expected to reduce monthly SNAP participation by 3.2 million people, according to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).
3. Benefit Reductions and Eligibility Cuts
Further savings would come from:
- Cutting benefits for up to 250,000 legal immigrants who are not U.S. citizens or green card holders
- Capping annual benefit growth to less than inflation, lowering average household benefits by about $15 by 2034
Political Outlook: A Narrow Margin
The legislation passed the House by a single vote—215 to 214. It now heads to the Senate, where Republicans hold 53 seats. However, internal party divisions over the proposed cuts, particularly to SNAP and Medicaid, may force revisions. Democrats have opposed the bill entirely so far.
The potential overhaul of SNAP underscores the broader political and economic debate around balancing tax cuts with social spending. While aimed at reducing federal expenditures, these changes risk increasing food insecurity for millions, especially if states can’t or won’t absorb the added costs.
FAQs
Who currently qualifies for SNAP?
Low-income individuals or families who meet income thresholds. For example, individuals earning less than $1,632/month or families of four earning less than $3,380/month.
How many people could lose benefits?
The CBO projects that 3.2 million people could be removed from the program monthly due to expanded work requirements alone.
When would the states start covering food costs?
States would begin paying a share of food benefits in fiscal year 2028, starting at a minimum of 5%.