NJ SNAP, WIC Benefits At Risk Due To Gov't Shutdown

The ongoing federal government shutdown has put the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in jeopardy, state officials said.

New Jersey SNAP and Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women Infants and Children (WIC) participants are still receiving benefits this month, but state officials warn that federal funding delays could disrupt payments in November.

SNAP benefits are guaranteed through Oct. 31 and WIC benefits through Nov. 10, but no federal funding for fiscal year 2026 has been appropriated yet.

More than 800,000 New Jersey residents rely on SNAP monthly, and nearly 165,000 women and children depend on WIC for food and nutrition support.

The Trump Administration has instructed states to delay transmitting November SNAP benefit files to electronic benefit transfer vendors until further notice. While federal programs have historically been funded retroactively when government shutdowns end, no such assurances have been made this time.

“Federal guidance and contingency plans continue to evolve,” the NJ Department of Human Services said.

“The Trump Administration also advised states to delay transmitting November SNAP benefit issuance files to electronic benefit transfer (EBT) vendors until further notice. Historically, when the federal government reopens, all federal programs are funded retroactively, but no such assurances have been made to-date.”

The uncertainty is also affecting more than 5,000 stores, grocers and farmers markets that accept SNAP, along with food banks, pantries and county social service agencies. About 900 WIC retailers across New Jersey could be impacted if federal funding disruptions continue.

The state Department of Human Services is in contact with all 16 WIC agency sponsors serving all 21 counties, who continue delivering services despite the federal shutdown.

State agencies will provide updates as information becomes available. SNAP information will be posted at njsnap.gov and on @NJDHS social media. WIC updates will be shared at nj.gov/health and @njdeptofhealth. Information will also be available through @NJOFSA and at nj.gov/foodsecurity.

Residents can locate food pantries and community kitchens through NJ 211 and find school meal application information online.

The federal government shutdown began on Oct. 1 after President Donald Trump and Congress failed to strike an agreement to keep government programs and services running. The Senate rejected the Republican's proposal, which fell short of the 60 votes needed to advance the bill.

Democrats insisted the resolution reverse the Medicaid cuts in Trump's mega-bill passed this summer and extend tax credits for health insurance premiums through the marketplaces established by the Affordable Care Act.

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