SNAP Benefits Go to 186,000 Dead People–And Stopping Them Might Be Difficult
A store displays a sign for Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) purchases in New York City on Oct. 30, 2025. Spencer Platt/Getty Images
A store displays a sign for Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) purchases in New York City on Oct. 30, 2025. Spencer Platt/Getty Images
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SNAP Benefits Go to 186,000 Dead People–And Stopping Them Might Be Difficult

In one case, the name of a 14-year-old shooting victim in Los Angeles was used for two decades to claim benefits, including SNAP, worth more than $280,000.
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By Tom Gantert
Updated:

President Donald Trump’s anti-fraud efforts have brought renewed focus on issues plaguing the welfare system, including the millions of dollars in food stamps that are being sent to dead recipients.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a report last month stating that 185,986 deceased people in 29 states were receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits as of July 1, 2025, at an annual cost of $419.6 million. It also reported an additional $3 billion in potential fraud, waste, and abuse.

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