28/10/2025
DHS is advising Arkansans enrolled in 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.
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.
The shutdown may also cause delays in processing applications or renewals. However, SNAP recipients should continue to report household changes, complete any paperwork they receive related to their case, and submit any verification documents if requested.
The shutdown is not expected to have any immediate impact on ARHOME, ARKids First A or B, or any other Medicaid programs administered by DHS as these services are funded in Arkansas through the end of the year without any additional action from Congress.
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 (...
