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DSS SNAP Date Change in English |
DSS SNAP Date Change in Spanish |
What is changing?
Starting on March 1st, 2026, DSS will issue SNAP and Cash benefits on new days.
Why is this happening?
Connecticut passed a new law (Public Act No. 24-82) that changes when DSS must issue SNAP benefits. The new law requires DSS to spread out the days that SNAP benefits are issued. This change will help make stores less crowded. This will also improve the overall client experience.
Why did DSS choose March?
We chose March because February has fewer days than any other month, which means the transition period will be shorter and easier for families to manage.
We also wanted to avoid times when family’s grocery bills are higher, like during the holidays, or the summertime when kids are not in school.
What do you need to know?
DSS currently issues SNAP and Cash benefits over the first 3 days of the month, based on the first letter of the EBT cardholder’s last name.
Beginning March 1, 2026:
- Cash benefits will be issued on the 1st of the month only
- SNAP benefits will be issued over the first 8 days of the month
| Last 2 digits of Client ID | Benefit Issuance Day |
| 00-12 | 1st of the month |
| 13-24 | 2nd of the month |
| 25-37 | 3rd of the month |
| 38-49 | 4th of the month |
| 50-62 | 5th of the month |
| 63-74 | 6th of the month |
| 75-87 | 7th of the month |
| 88-99 | 8th of the month |
SNAP benefits can only be accessed using an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.
Cash benefits can be accessed using an EBT card or direct deposit. If you get Cash benefits and would like to enroll in direct deposit, call our Benefit Center.
You can view your EBT balance in real-time by visiting https://mydss.ct.gov.