The federal government shutdown on October 1, 2025, and will be shutdown until congress passes new budget legislation or a temporary extension of current funding. This will impact federal employees and programs.

Here is what you need to know:

• You will not lose unspent SNAP benefits – your previously deposited benefits will be available to use throughout the month of November.
  • We recommend leaving a $1 balance on your EBT card so you can utilize Healthy Incentive Program (HIP) benefits. HIP reimburses your purchase of fruits and vegetables at participating local farms. To learn more about HIP, find vendors and more: click here. 
• As of November 1st, benefits for the month will be listed on EBT cards as “pending”. Pending balances cannot be used to purchase food.
  • For the useable balance on your EBT card, call the number listed on the back of your card.
• SNAP enrollment remains open. DTA and the Food Bank’s SNAP Enrollment team are continuing to help people apply for benefits. If you are approved, benefits are paid retroactively from the date of your application.
  • Click here to fill out a form to have a member of MVFB’s Snap Enrollment team reach out to you. 
• When the government reopens and benefits are restored, there will likely be a delay of several days before benefits are available on EBT Cards.