Maryland SNAP households will see full benefits starting November 18, a welcome update after the shutdown’s partial payouts left many short. After the 43-day federal shutdown that froze funds, the state’s Department of Human Services (DHS) said the money’s flowing again, thanks to Congress’ funding bill last week.
As of November 17, 2025, over 1 million Marylanders on SNAP can look forward to their EBT cards loaded with the full amount, averaging $187 per person to stock fridges and ease worries. But with new federal rules in the works, this boost might come with strings for families down the line.
The shutdown started October 1 and hit hard. Federal cash for SNAP stopped, so states like Maryland scrambled. Gov. Wes Moore stepped up with an emergency order, ensuring at least 50% benefits for most. That meant partial help, but families still struggled, many turned to food banks where lines stretched long.
“We made do with rice and beans, but my kids missed fresh milk,” said Baltimore mom Elena Ramirez, 29, in a local news clip that’s been shared 15,000 times. Ramirez, a daycare worker, supports four on SNAP. “This full check means normal meals again, it’s huge.”
DHS jumped on the reopening. “We’ll issue 100% as scheduled,” spokesperson Lisa Davis told reporters. Benefits hit cards on usual dates, 1st to 28th by last name but adjusted for partials already out. If you got 50%, the rest comes November 18 or soon after.
Maryland’s quick move stands out, unlike Pennsylvania’s ongoing waits or Georgia’s phased rollout. Still, rural areas like the Eastern Shore report slower loads due to system glitches from the shutdown.
Nationally, it’s a mixed bag. The lapse hurt 42 million, costing SNAP $3 billion in delays. States like Tennessee resumed today, while Florida adds audits amid fraud talks.
Trump’s USDA directed states to “take immediate steps” for full November aid, but pushes reforms: Raise work age to 65, require reapplies for all by December to “fight abuse.” Critics say fraud’s tiny, under 2% and this burdens the needy. In Maryland, where 14% use SNAP, it could drop 150,000, per state figures.
Local tales pull at hearts. In Annapolis, food pantries like Maryland Food Bank saw demand jump 30%, now, with full SNAP back, it might drop, but director Jennifer Small isn’t sure. “Families borrowed from friends; this helps repay debts,” she said.
Urban spots hit bad too: In Baltimore, lines tripled at pantries. “We ate canned soup for weeks,” one dad shared anonymously on Facebook, post liked 3,000 times.
Experts chime in. KFF analyst Samantha Artiga notes SNAP cut child hunger 20% pre-shutdown reforms could undo that. “Full resumption matters, but reapplies create walls,” she explained. USDA responds: “It’s time for checks, the program grew without oversight.” Gov. Wes Moore backs the resumption but warns of reforms: “We’ll fight to protect Marylanders.”
Poverty stats highlight the need. Maryland’s child poverty fell to 8% under Biden expansions, now at risk. Food insecurity affects 12% of households, per Census.
For families, next steps count. Check EBT at ConnectEBT.com or app full loads start November 18 for many. If missing, call DHS at 410-767-7000. Renewals loom with federal push, gather pay stubs now. Pantries help meantime; find via 211.org
This resumption lifts Maryland spirits, but uncertainty lingers. As one Silver Spring user posted: “Finally full SNAP, but for how long?” With changes ahead, families stay alert. If hit, contact reps, your voice helps.
