SNAP Benefits and Income Thresholds Expanded in U.S. Virgin Islands

Income limits raised to 175% of federal poverty guidelines, providing greater access to assistance for low-income families; monthly allotments adjusted to reflect rising cost of living

The V.I. Department of Human Services announced on Tuesday that it has implemented an increase in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, effective October 1, 2024. This adjustment follows the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s annual review, which aligns SNAP allotments and eligibility criteria with the rising cost of living. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to provide essential support for vulnerable residents across the territory.

According to DHS, to ensure more families qualify for assistance, the Virgin Islands has raised the gross income threshold for Categorically Eligible (CATEL) households from 130% to 175% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines (FPIGs). This increase allows working families who earn slightly more but still fall within a range that may need assistance, to access benefits. However, despite this expanded threshold, households are still required to report their income if it surpasses 130% of the FPIGs in accordance with the territory’s simplified reporting requirements.