The federal government's failure to pass a funding bill officially shut down portions of the government as of Oct. 1, and Washington State is already feeling the impact. loading...

What Happens to SNAP During a Shutdown

According to the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP or Basic Food, are still being distributed through the end of October. However, if Congress fails to restore federal funding before Oct. 31, thousands of Washington families could be impacted.

How Many Washington Families Could Lose Benefits

As of September 2025, over 540,000 Washington households receive SNAP food benefits, which buy most groceries, including fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, fish, poultry, and breads and

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