10/22/2025
DHS warns of possible delay or disruption in SNAP benefits if shutdown continues
(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.) — The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) is advising Arkansans enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that they should prepare for a possible delay or disruption in November benefits if the federal government shutdown continues into next month.
DHS is awaiting additional guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the federal agency that administers SNAP benefits, and will provide updates as they are available. At this time it appears that the shutdown may prevent November benefits from being issued on time.
DHS has been in contact with food banks and community partners to prepare for a possible gap in benefits, and is advising Arkansans who receive SNAP to take the following steps:
1. Identify local food pantries, churches, and community organizations that can provide temporary food assistance. The Arkansas Foodbank provides this helpful resource online for locating food assistance resources by address, city, or ZIP code.
2. Reach out to family and friends who may be able to temporarily assist with food purchases if there is a lapse in SNAP benefits.
3. If you have accrued SNAP benefits from previous months on your account, use those funds now to buy shelf-stable foods that can last through November and beyond. The SNAP retail system may disallow purchases beginning on Nov. 1 even if you have funds in your account.
4. Check with DHS for updates on this developing situation. We will share information on the SNAP website at
ALERT: The Arkansas Department of Human Services is encouraging Arkansans who receive benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to take steps to secure their accounts. Click here for more information. DHS has submitted two separate waivers to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (...
