NC SNAP Recipients to Receive Full November Benefits By This Weekend After Partial Payments

RALEIGH, N.C. — Relief is on the way for more than half a million North Carolina households that rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) announced Friday, Nov. 7, that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will fully fund November SNAP benefits, following a week of uncertainty tied to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Earlier in the day, NCDHHS had distributed partial payments — only 35% of regular benefits — to approximately 586,000 households. Some families received as little as $16 or less, while others saw no funds at all.

Now, with full federal approval secured, the remaining benefits could be loaded to EBT cards as early as this weekend.

Officials Respond to Urgent Need

“I want to thank NCDHHS for working around the clock to get money on people’s EBT cards today so they can buy groceries this weekend,” said Governor Josh Stein. “We’ll keep working to help folks put food on the table during this challenging time.”

NCDHHS Secretary Dr. Dev Sangvai added, “SNAP is a critical food assistance program for families, children, and seniors. Now that the federal government has allowed for full distribution, our team will move quickly to get the remainder of benefits out to those depending on them.”

Background: Delayed and Reduced Payments

Following initial USDA guidance, states were instructed to issue 35% of maximum SNAP allotments while awaiting full authorization.
The abrupt reduction created widespread confusion and hardship, as thousands of North Carolinians checked their EBT balances Friday morning to find far less than expected.

Attorney General Jeff Jackson, whose office challenged the USDA’s decision in court, said, “We took USDA to court because they broke the law and put our kids’ health in danger. They’re now doing the right thing — good news for families who depend on SNAP to put food on the table.”

What SNAP Recipients Should Know

• Check your balance: Use the ebtEDGE app, visit ebtEDGE.com, or call 1-888-622-7328.
• Funds are usable immediately once they appear on your card.
• Apply and renew as usual: County DSS offices remain open and are processing applications.
• Need food now? Call 2-1-1 or visit the NCDHHS Food Access Resources page for local pantries and emergency support.

NCDHHS is posting regular updates on its website and social media regarding SNAP benefit timing and other impacts of the ongoing federal shutdown.