SNAP Recipients May Be Unable to Use Saved Food Stamps If Government Doesn’t Reopen

Recipients should be prepared to go to food banks or food pantries, state officials said.

A sign alerting customers about SNAP food stamp benefits is displayed at a Brooklyn grocery store in New York City on Dec. 5, 2019. Scott Heins/Getty Images

Food stamp recipients who have saved up benefits may not be able to use the money soon if the government shutdown persists, state officials say.

Recipients receive money to purchase food under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).