What to know about SNAP benefits amid government shutdown
Federal officials are warning of the threat that a prolonged government shutdown, now in its 15th day, could pose to millions of Americans who rely on SNAP benefits.
The federally funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program issues electronic benefits that can be used like cash to purchase food and is run by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
In a letter to state health officials obtained by ABC News, Ronald Ward -- the acting head of SNAP -- said the program that millions of low-income Americans rely on "has funding available for benefits and operations through the month of October."
He added, "If the current lapse in appropriations continues, there will be insufficient funds to pay full November SNAP benefits for approximately 42 million individuals across the Nation."
The use of SNAP benefits by food insecure Americans can vary based on unemployment, food costs, and seasonal changes, but is particularly important during the holiday season, when food banks and other services are at their busiest and helping communities in need.
Ward's letter also stated a need for a "contingency plan" if operations need to halt ahead of sending November benefits files to vendors.
"Considering the operational issues and constraints that exist in automated systems, and in the interest of preserving maximum flexibility, we are forced to direct States to hold their November issuance files and delay transmission to State EBT vendors until further notice," the letter read.
As of time of publication, the USDA has not issued any additional updates for SNAP beneficiaries.
ABC News' Will McDuffie contributed to this report.
