Update on November FNS / SNAP benefits

Press release | North Carolina State Government via Cleveland County

On Nov. 5, the federal government directed the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and other states to issue November 2025 Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits at 35% below the maximum allotment levels. This change affects all households receiving FNS (formerly known as SNAP) benefits in North Carolina.

What This Means for FNS Recipients"

Because of the federal directive, most households will see a reduction in their November benefits, and some may receive no benefit this month. The reduction is required under federal law, and states are not permitted to provide different amounts or calculate the benefits in a different way.

Key Details:

• Households receiving the maximum benefit for their household size will see about a

35% reduction. For example, if you usually receive the full amount, you will get roughly

two-thirds of that amount this month.

• Households receiving less than the maximum benefit will likely see a larger percentage

reduction. In some cases, particularly for larger households (three or more people) who

usually receive smaller amounts, there may be no benefit issued for November.

• Single-person or two-person households will receive at least $16, even if their calculated

benefit would otherwise be lower.

The amount each household receives depends on household size and their usual benefit level. A 35% reduction in the maximum allotment does not mean every household’s benefits will simply be reduced by 35%, because of how the federal SNAP benefit formula works.

What You Can Do: (continued below local ads)

1. Check Your Benefits

• Partial benefits were distributed on November 7.

• Beneficiaries can check their balances by visiting ebtEDGE.com, using the ebtEDGE app,

or calling 1-888-622-7328.

2. Continue to Apply and Renew

• The Cleveland County Department of Social Services (DSS) and all county DSS offices

remain open and are processing FNS applications and renewals.

• Residents should continue submitting applications and renewal paperwork on time to prevent delays when full federal funding resumes.

3. Stay Informed

• NCDHHS will share updates as soon as new information becomes available and is committed to issuing benefits as quickly as possible.

4. Find Local Food Resources

• View the Cleveland County Food Resource Guide (PDF).

• Call 2-1-1 for immediate food assistance or visit the NCDHHS Food Access page to locate nearby food pantries.

For the latest updates, guidance, and food resources, visit ncdhhs.gov/foodresources.

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