The Trump administration is preparing a nationwide review of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, outlining plans that could require all current recipients to reapply for benefits. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins explained the initiative during an interview with Newsmax, stating that the administration intends to “have everyone reapply for their benefits” to verify eligibility. No timeline for the reapplication process has been provided.
Federal officials have pushed states to provide detailed personal information about beneficiaries, including Social Security numbers and addresses, citing concerns about improper payments. Rollins reported that data from states that complied with the request showed “186,000 deceased men and women and children” receiving benefits. President Donald Trump has emphasized that SNAP “was meant for people that had real problems… It wasn’t meant for people who could do whatever they want.”
At the state and local level, New York has begun issuing full November SNAP benefits to eligible households. NYC Health + Hospitals has advised residents to monitor notices from the Human Resources Administration, update information online via ACCESS HRA, or call 718-SNAP-NOW to ensure continued eligibility. The city also encourages residents to seek guidance if they believe they qualify for exemptions due to health conditions, caregiving responsibilities, or other approved reasons.
By March 2026, many adults aged 18 to 64 will need to work or participate in an approved training program for at least 80 hours per month to maintain SNAP benefits unless exempt. NYC residents can also access local food resources through pantries, soup kitchens, and city programs, with more information available at foodhelp.nyc.gov or by calling 311.
The combined federal and local updates signal significant changes for SNAP recipients, emphasizing both verification of eligibility and the new work requirements that will affect households across New York and nationwide.
