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. DSS is closely monitoring developments
and is in regular contact with federal partners.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are SNAP recipients losing eligibility?
No. There are no changes to SNAP eligibility or program rules at this time.
2. 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
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. How many SNAP recipients are in my community?
SNAP data and statistics can be found here: https://dss.sd.gov/keyresources/statistics.aspx#snap
6. How will DSS share updates?
• Via the official DSS website
• Through local DSS offices
• Via the media and public announcements
7. 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.
8. What Stakeholders Can Do Now:
• Prepare to support households who may face a benefits gap in November.
• Promote careful use of existing SNAP benefits and connect customers with food banks or pantries.
• Help dispel misinformation by sharing DSS updates.
• For help with applications or to check the status of benefits, refer individuals to DSS. They can also dial 211 or
text their Zip code to 898211 to find local resources available in their community.
Stay Connected
• DSS Website: https://dss.sd.gov
• DSS Contact: https://dss.sd.gov/findyourlocaloffice/
