Federal Government Shutdown – SNAP Information

The federal government is currently experiencing a shutdown that began on October 1, 2025, impacting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits starting November 1, 2025.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has informed Louisiana that there are insufficient funds to cover SNAP benefits beginning on November 1, 2025, if the shutdown continues.  As a result, the Louisiana Department of Health is currently unable to process or issue benefits for November 1, 2025.  

In the meantime, you must continue to meet all program requirements on time: 

• Report Household Changes: Continue to report any changes to your household circumstances.
• Complete Paperwork: Ensure you complete simplified reporting or recertification paperwork.
• Submit Verification: Submit any requested verification documents:
• By mail to the LDH ES Document Processing Center, P.O. Box 260031, Baton Rouge, LA 70826;
• In person at any LDH ES parish office; or
• By fax to (225) 663-3164.

This issue is affecting all SNAP households nationwide.  Any unused SNAP benefits as of October 31, 2025, will remain available on your Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card and can be used as usual.

The Louisiana Department of Health will prioritize processing and issuing SNAP benefits to beneficiaries as soon as the federal funding issue has been addressed.