Department of Social Services – Important Updates

Federal Shut Down Information  – Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP)

October 27, 2025

The Department of Social Services (DSS) is writing to share important updated information from its federal SNAP partner regarding SNAP benefits during the ongoing federal government shutdown.

What They Now Know:

  • If clients have a balance from previous months, they will still be able to use it after November 1, 2025. Carryover benefits already on EBT cards remain accessible.
  • No new benefits will be added to cards until the shutdown ends. Starting November 1, 2025, households will not receive their regular monthly SNAP allocation.
  • DSS is still accepting and processing SNAP applications. If someone is approved for benefits for October, those benefits will appear on their card when the federal government reopens.

What This Means for Clients:

Many families served by community partners will be impacted by this disruption. Those who rely on monthly SNAP benefits to feed their families will face significant hardship beginning November 1, 2025. DSS anticipates increased demand at food pantries and meal programs across the state.

State Response:

  • The $3 million in emergency funding will help Connecticut Foodshare expand its capacity to meet urgent needs.
  • DSS is working closely with Connecticut Foodshare and partners across the state to ensure no one falls through the cracks.
  • DSS will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate its response with food security partners statewide.

How to Check SNAP Balances:

Please share this information with clients:

DSS will send more information as it receives it. Updates will be reflected on ct.gov. 

The department thanks community partners for the critical work they do every day to serve communities. Their partnership is more important than ever.