Big Beautiful Bill Makes Cuts to SNAP Food Stamps

SNAP Changes in 2025 and Cell Phone/Internet Program Context

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was modified by the 2025 reconciliation bill, the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," signed into law on July 4, 2025. These changes, effective from September 1, 2025, with others phased in by 2027-2028, alter program rules and funding. One change removes internet and phone service costs from SNAP benefit calculations, raising questions about whether other programs cover these expenses. Below is a clear list of SNAP changes, their impacts on specific groups, and an explanation of federal programs addressing cell phone and internet costs, clarifying their relation to the SNAP change.

Key Changes to SNAP

1. Reduced Federal Funding and State Cost-Sharing
   • Change: Federal SNAP funding is cut by $186 billion over 10 years. From 2027, states cover 75% of administrative costs (up from 50%). By 2028, states pay part of food benefit costs for administrative errors (e.g., overpayments or underpayments).
   • Impact: States may tighten eligibility, affecting Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18-64 by potentially limiting access.
2. Expanded Work Requirements
   • Change: Work requirements for ABAWDs now apply to ages 18-64 (previously 18-54), starting in some states (e.g., Pennsylvania, Vermont) by November 1, 2025. Individuals must work, volunteer, or train 20 hours per week. Parents with children 14+ lose exemptions (previously children under 18), and veterans lose exemptions. States face stricter limits on waiving these rules in high-unemployment areas.
   • Impact: ABAWDs (18-64), parents with children 14+, and veterans may lose benefits after three months in a three-year period if they can’t meet the 20-hour requirement.
3. Changes to Benefit Calculations
   • Change: Internet and phone service costs are no longer deductible when calculating eligibility or benefits. The Thrifty Food Plan, which sets benefit levels, must be cost-neutral, limiting adjustments for rising food prices.
   • Impact: ABAWDs, parents with children 14+, and veterans may see benefits reduced by $72-$231 per month.
4. Tighter Eligibility Rules
   • Change: Lawfully residing humanitarian immigrants lose SNAP eligibility. Other restrictions reduce access for an estimated 2.4 million people monthly.
   • Impact: Humanitarian immigrants lose eligibility; ABAWDs face stricter rules.
5. Anti-Fraud Measures
   • Change: Rules limit SNAP use for items like soda or candy in some states and include other cost-saving measures.
   • Impact: ABAWDs, parents with children 14+, and veterans may face restrictions on benefit use.

Who’s Affected by SNAP Changes?

• Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs), Ages 18-64: Face expanded work requirements and potential benefit cuts or loss due to stricter eligibility and state cost pressures.
• Parents with Children 14+: Lose work requirement exemptions, risking benefit loss if they can’t meet the 20-hour rule.
• Veterans: No longer exempt from work requirements, facing potential benefit loss.
• Lawfully Residing Humanitarian Immigrants: Lose SNAP eligibility entirely.

Programs Covering Cell Phone and Internet Charges

The removal of internet and phone service costs from SNAP benefit calculations likely reflects the availability of federal programs like Lifeline, which provide targeted assistance for these expenses. Below are the key programs in 2025 that help cover cell phone and internet costs:

1. Lifeline Program
   • What It Is: A Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program offering discounts on phone or internet services for low-income households.
   • Benefits in 2025:
     • Up to $9.25/month discount on phone (landline or cell), internet, or bundled services.
     • Up to $34.25/month for households on Tribal lands.
   • Eligibility: Income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines; participation in programs like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Tribal programs. Survivors of domestic violence or human trafficking under the Safe Connections Act qualify for emergency support.
   • How to Apply: Apply online or by mail via lifelinesupport.org or through participating providers. Helpful resources: USA.gov, FCC Lifeline, Lifeline vs ACP
   • Relevance to SNAP: Since Lifeline directly subsidizes phone and internet costs for SNAP-eligible households, the 2025 bill likely removed these expenses from SNAP calculations to avoid duplicative support.
2. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
   • What It Is: An FCC program providing internet subsidies, but it ended in 2024 due to funding depletion.
   • Status in 2025: As of February 7, 2024, new enrollments stopped, and the program is not active in 2025. Existing enrollees may retain benefits temporarily, but no new applications are accepted. Source
   • Relevance to SNAP: The ACP’s termination may have prompted the SNAP change to streamline federal spending, though Lifeline remains available.
3. Provider-Specific and State/Local Programs
   • What They Are: Some providers (e.g., Xfinity Internet Essentials, AT&T Access) offer low-cost plans for low-income households, often combinable with Lifeline. State and local initiatives may also provide limited internet or device support.
   • Eligibility: Varies but often aligns with Lifeline criteria (e.g., SNAP participation or low income).
   • How to Apply: Contact providers directly or check state program websites. More Info
   • Relevance to SNAP: These programs supplement Lifeline, further justifying the removal of internet/phone costs from SNAP.

Why Were Internet and Phone Costs Removed from SNAP?

The exclusion of internet and phone costs from SNAP benefit calculations is likely due to the existence of Lifeline and provider-specific programs, which directly address these expenses for low-income households, including those on SNAP. The 2025 bill aims to reduce federal SNAP spending by $186 billion, and removing these costs avoids overlapping subsidies. The absence of the ACP in 2025 may increase reliance on Lifeline, but no evidence suggests the SNAP change was a direct response to ACP’s end.

• Sources: For more info, visit USDA.gov (SNAP) or Lifeline Support.