Show All Answers

1. What are emergency allotments (EA), also known as maximum allotments (MA)?

Colorado SNAP households have been getting an extra amount of benefits every month since March 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. These extra benefits are called “emergency allotments or max allotments” and most households have been getting this on top of their regular SNAP benefits. These emergency allotments were authorized by Congress, but they are temporary, and will be ending in March 2023.

2. Why is the emergency/max allotment ending?

SNAP Emergency or Max Allotment is ending with the benefit month of February 2023 due to recent congressional action to end those allotments. Colorado was approved to issue additional SNAP benefits due to the State and Federal emergency declarations that were in place during the pandemic. There is nothing the state or counties can do to extend the emergency allotment benefits once they have ended.

3. How will this impact me?

A final emergency allotment will be issued in February 2023. You will see a reduction in your monthly SNAP benefits beginning March 2023. This may have a significant impact on families.

4. Will I still get SNAP benefits after the emergency/max allotment ends?

Yes, you will continue to receive your regular SNAP benefits as long as you remain eligible for this program. Your benefit amounts are based on a number of factors, including household size, income, and your specific circumstances. 

5. When will SNAP max allotment end?

February 2023 will be the last month households will receive max allotment/emergency allotments. Beginning in March 2023, SNAP households will see a reduction in monthly SNAP benefits.

6. I received a notice that my SNAP benefits will be reduced/closed. Can I appeal?

Colorado Department of Human Services and county offices cannot continue the additional benefits once maximum allotments have ended in March 2023, even if you appeal the action to end the additional benefits. You are able to appeal if you believe the base benefit calculation is incorrect. 

7. How much will my benefits be after the maximum allotment ends?

You should receive a notice any time your benefit changes to inform you of your current benefit level. You can access your notices via the Colorado PEAK website and the MyCOBenefits app. 

8. What can I do to help my family through this change?

This change may have a significant impact on many SNAP families.

• If you are able to, roll over EBT benefits to the next month, which may help cushion the impact of the reduction in benefits. 
• Stock up on non-perishable items now, while you have the additional benefits. View tips on stocking your pantry in English or Spanish.
• Stretch food ingredients and plan to use them in more than one meal, which can help save money and reduce food waste. View tips on stretching ingredients in English or Spanish.
• Consider freezing produce to make fruit and vegetables last longer. View tips on freezing food in English or Spanish.
• Look at unit prices to compare similar products at the grocery store and see where you can save money. View tips on comparing prices in English or Spanish.
• Women, Infants & Children (WIC) benefits provide food supplements to eligible parents and caregivers with a child under the age of 5. 
• Another way to reduce the impact of the reduction in SNAP benefits is to take advantage of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP provides discounts on internet service and devices and you might qualify for discounts of up to $30 per month. Visit AffordableConnectivity.gov to learn more about the discounts, eligibility and how to apply.

9. Who can I contact for additional information or questions?

SNAP participants can call 1-800-816-4451 for questions about their benefits, or for more information, visit the Colorado Department of Human Services website.