Report: New Jersey’s $95 minimum SNAP benefit supports food security, generates $93 million in economic activity
TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey’s $95 minimum Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefit has played a key role in supporting food security for thousands of residents while generating an estimated $93 million in economic activity, according to a new report released by the state Department of Human Services.
The report, commissioned by Human Services and conducted by the Center for Research and Evaluation on Education and Human Services at Montclair State University, examined the impact of New Jersey’s state-supplemented SNAP minimum benefit from March 2023 through May 2025.
New Jersey established a minimum monthly SNAP benefit of $95 in 2023. Households approved for less than $95 in federal SNAP assistance receive a state supplement that brings their total monthly benefit to $95. State officials said New Jersey remains the only state in the nation to provide a minimum SNAP benefit at that level.
The study found the benefit is particularly important for households in less densely populated areas of the state and has supported more than 125,700 households since its implementation.
“This report reinforces what we already know: SNAP helps people in need by improving access to nutritious food and easing financial strain. It also supports local economies by driving broader economic activity in communities. SNAP remains a critical lifeline that helps ensure families can meet their basic needs and maintain food security. I encourage people in need of assistance to visit njsnap.gov to learn more about SNAP eligibility,” said Commissioner Stephen Cha.
Researchers found that recipients of the minimum benefit are more likely to be seniors, single-person households, English-speaking residents and employed individuals compared with the broader SNAP population.
The counties with the highest percentages of SNAP participants receiving the state-supplemented minimum benefit were Sussex County at 14.2%, Warren County at 13.3%, Gloucester County at 12.6%, Cape May County at 12.5% and Monmouth County at 12.1%.
According to the report, New Jersey invested more than $60 million between March 2023 and May 2025 to supplement federal SNAP benefits, generating an estimated $93 million in economic activity during that period. Researchers estimated the investment produced an overall return of approximately $33 million, averaging $3.4 million in economic activity each month.
“These findings show that the $95 minimum benefit helps people afford food and increases willingness to apply for and recertify SNAP benefits, especially among older adults and families with young children. Expanding access to families who need this assistance helps put food on the table while also delivering broader benefits beyond food access,” said Deputy Commissioner for Social Services Michael J. Wilson.
State officials said the benefit has become increasingly important as food costs continue to rise.
“As food prices continue to rise, we’re glad to provide individuals and families with a monthly benefit that helps them stretch their dollars and meet their food needs throughout the month. We encourage families to use the tools available to keep their benefits safe, including locking their card when not in use,” said Division of Family Development Assistant Commissioner Natasha Johnson.
Researchers said the findings highlight the significance of the benefit both for recipients and their communities.
“We are grateful to NJ SNAP recipients and staff who shared their experiences and expertise with us. These findings reflect the role the $95 minimum benefit plays in the daily lives of the people who receive it and the communities in which they live,” said CREEHS Director Eden N. Kyse, PhD.
The study was funded through the New Jersey Food Security Initiative with support from the Food Research and Action Center and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Researchers conducted the study between July 2025 and March 2026 using administrative data collected from March 2023 through May 2025.
New Jersey officials said combating hunger and strengthening food security remain priorities for the state. In fiscal year 2025, Human Services distributed more than $27 million in additional monthly SNAP payments to help low-income households afford food and other necessities.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s proposed fiscal year 2027 budget includes $30.2 million to maintain the $95 minimum monthly SNAP benefit for approximately 40,000 households. The department has also modernized the SNAP application process and expanded SNAP Navigator services in every county to improve access for residents facing food insecurity.
Individuals and families can apply for SNAP online, in person, by contacting their county social services agency or through a SNAP Navigator. Additional information is available at njsnap.gov.
