SNAP benefits for February 2026 are currently being issued across the United States. However, many recipients have noticed that deposit dates and benefit amounts are not the same for everyone. Some households report receiving as little as $291, while others receive amounts closer to $973. These differences can cause confusion, especially for families expecting a standard payment schedule or uniform benefit totals.

The reason for these variations lies in how the SNAP program operates. SNAP is funded by the federal government, but it is managed by individual states. This means each state has its own system for scheduling benefit deposits. Some states assign payment dates based on case numbers, while others use the first letter of a last name or the last digits of a Social Security number. Because of this system, certain households receive benefits at the beginning of the month, while others may not see their deposits until later.

The difference in benefit amounts is mainly connected to household size. Larger households generally qualify for higher maximum allotments because they have greater food needs. For example, a single eligible adult may receive a lower amount, while a family with multiple children may receive a higher monthly benefit. Income level also plays an important role. Households with lower income and higher allowable expenses may qualify for larger assistance amounts. This explains why neighbors living in the same area may receive different totals.

States intentionally spread deposits across several days or weeks. This staggered schedule helps prevent overload on Electronic Benefit Transfer systems. It ensures that grocery stores and retail outlets can process transactions smoothly. It also allows customer service centers to manage questions and support requests more efficiently. The varied timing is part of a planned system rather than a sign of delay or error.

Recipients can check their state’s official SNAP website or contact the EBT helpline to confirm their exact deposit date. Many states also provide mobile applications that allow users to monitor their benefit balance and recent transactions in real time. Regularly checking these tools can reduce uncertainty and help families plan grocery purchases more effectively.

In summary, SNAP deposits in February 2026 vary because states manage their own payment calendars and benefit calculations. Amounts between $291 and $973 reflect differences in household size, income, and eligibility factors.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. SNAP benefit amounts, eligibility rules, and payment schedules are determined by federal guidelines and state agencies. Recipients should confirm details through official state SNAP portals or authorized government resources.