The number of SNAP beneficiaries (food stamps) decreased in July 2026 to 36,087,667 people in 19,636,409 households, the lowest monthly figure since July 2009, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Why it matters: millions of Hispanic families use SNAP to buy food. July 2026 is the lowest level in 17 years, and the decline has been ongoing for over a year, since March 2025. The June and July 2026 data are preliminary and may change significantly; all data are subject to revision.
These are the figures for July 2026 compared to July 2025 in some states. The USDA tables do not explain the causes of the decline.
These steps can help if you or your family use SNAP or plan to apply.
Source: Food and Nutrition Administration (USDA), SNAP data tables (data as of October 9, 2026). Accessed on October 27, 2026.
