(updated October 21, 2025)
If the federal government shutdown continues, November SNAP benefits may not be issued.
We recognize this may cause significant challenges for many of our SNAP households. Fairfax County is committed to supporting our community through these uncertain times. Resources are available if you need food or other financial assistance:
- Basic Needs Assistance (CSP) - call 703-222-0880 (M-F, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.)
- Emergency Food Access Map
- Department of Family Services
- Health and Human Services
October SNAP benefits are not affected by the federal shutdown and have been distributed as expected.
Since SNAP is funded at the federal level and supervised by the state, Fairfax County cannot control or change when SNAP funding will be released. At this time, it is unclear whether benefits will be issued retroactively once the shutdown ends.
As of now, other public assistance programs such as Child Care Assistance and Referral (CCAR), Medical Assistance (Medicaid), and LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) are not affected. We do not have updated guidance from the state about impacts to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits.