Government Shutdown 2025

POTENTIAL SNAP BENEFIT DISRUPTION                                                                                                 October 29, 2025

November SNAP Benefits May Be Disrupted

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November 2025 may be delayed or disrupted.

While October benefits have been fully issued, future funding is not guaranteed.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Are SNAP recipients losing eligibility?

No. There are no changes to SNAP eligibility or program rules at this time.

  1. Are DSS offices still open?

Yes. DSS offices are fully operational. Staff are available to:

  • Accept new applications
  • Process renewals
  • Answer questions from customers and partners
  1. Can SNAP recipients still use their EBT cards?

Yes. Current balances remaining on EBT cards – from October benefits or previous months – remain available for recipients to use.

  1. Will SNAP retailers be able to take SNAP benefits?

Currently, SNAP authorized retailers have not been de-authorized. USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has indicated states can expect further guidance around the authorizations given to retailers should the shutdown continue.

  1. How will DSS share updates?
  • Via the official DSS website
  • Through local DSS offices
  • Via the media and public announcements
  1. What if a tribe uses its own funds to contribute to USDA’s commodity program, would that affect individuals’ eligibility for SNAP?

Federal rules do not allow a household to receive both SNAP and Commodities in the same month. This is also true if a tribe contributes its own funds to purchase or supplement commodities. Therefore, a household’s SNAP eligibility could be impacted should a tribe pursue this provision for its members.

7. If Congress ends the government shutdown before the 10th of November, will South Dakota
SNAP recipients still receive their benefits on the 10th?
Unfortunately, as this situation is unprecedented and no guidance has been issued by USDA, FNS, there is no confirmation on whether South Dakota SNAP benefits would be issued on the 10th if the shutdown ends between the 1st and the 10th. The timing will depend on how quickly federal operations resume once the government reopens.

For help with applications or to check the status of benefits, call local DSS office.

Individuals can also dial 211 or text their Zip code to 898211 to find local resources available in their community.

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