Connecticut Offers $300 Grocery Benefits After SNAP Changes

HARTFORD — Connecticut has begun distributing one-time grocery benefits of $300 to certain residents who lost SNAP eligibility because of new federal requirements.

The assistance is available to individuals who lost their SNAP benefits because of the Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents requirements after December 1, 2025, and are no longer receiving SNAP.

The $300 benefit is provided per eligible person, not per household. Other members of the same household may still qualify for SNAP benefits.

Eligible residents will receive a prepaid virtual grocery card instead of money added to their existing EBT card. The card can be used at food retailers that accept standard credit cards and does not expire.

Residents who received a notice from the Connecticut Department of Social Services stating that they reached their three-month SNAP limit should contact their local community action agency. Eligibility will be verified before the benefit is distributed.

Receiving the $300 grocery benefit will not affect eligibility for other assistance programs.

Connecticut is using $8.5 million from the Federal Cuts Response Fund for the grocery benefit program. This funding is part of a broader $33 million state investment supporting food banks, food pantries and other nutrition assistance.