The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP or ‘food stamps’) is our country’s largest and most effective public assistance program, which also serves as the first line of defense against hunger. SNAP benefits are based on a household’s income, size and allowable expenses. Economically insecure older adults – those with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level ($31,300/year for a single person in 2024) – are eligible for SNAP in Ohio. But, they may qualify for only the $23 minimum benefit, which is not sufficient to cover rising food costs.
Older adults’ SNAP participation is staggeringly low. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, only 50% of Ohio older adults who qualify for SNAP are receiving benefits. Increasing the minimum benefit can incentivize greater SNAP participation – including connecting many seniors to the program who are likely to qualify for a benefit amount that is higher than the monthly minimum and paid for entirely with federal dollars.
By providing a supplemental benefit allotment to SNAP recipients that are 60 years old or older the state can work to provide additional food security to older Ohioans. This will allow individuals to live a healthier, happier life.
