USDA says November SNAP benefits won’t be issued without a funding deal; rumors about Walmart “closing Nov. 1” are false

The federal government shutdown is now directly threatening food assistance for tens of millions. USDA guidance circulated in recent days states that no federal SNAP (food stamps) benefits will be issued on November 1 unless Congress restores funding. The agency also told states it won’t tap contingency reserves to cover November, and said states that front their own money won’t be reimbursed. Several governors and lawmakers—Democrats and Republicans—are pushing USDA to reverse course or for Congress to pass a targeted fix. Some senators, including Elizabeth Warren, have publicly pressed the department to use every legal tool available to keep benefits flowing. This remains a developing situation.

What the shutdown means for SNAP and EBT in November

• Issuance at risk: If the federal shutdown continues, new November SNAP benefits will not load to EBT cards on the usual staggered schedule.

• Existing balances still work: Any money already on your EBT card remains usable at authorized retailers and farmers markets.

• State stop-gaps vary: A few states are exploring or announcing temporary, state-funded payments; timelines and eligibility differ by state and may change quickly.

• Processing paused: Many states were instructed to stop processing November issuances while the lapse continues. Application processing and recertifications may proceed, but new funds cannot be added without federal authority.

• Work rules also tighten Nov. 1: Separately from the shutdown, new federal work requirements for certain adults without dependents are slated to take effect on November 1, with some exemptions (e.g., pregnancy, medical unfitness, homelessness, veteran status, caregivers). State guidance will clarify who is covered.

“Walmart closing November 1” and similar posts

Viral posts claiming “Walmart is closing on November 1” or locking doors because SNAP is halted are false. Large national retailers may adjust staffing or hours market-by-market, but there is no nationwide plan to close stores on Nov. 1. EBT transactions at participating retailers continue to work for any existing balance already on your card.

Food banks near me: how to get help quickly

If your household depends on SNAP and is facing a gap:

• Call 211 from any phone and say “food” to be routed to local assistance.

• Search your city + “food bank” or “food pantry.” Many organizations publish same-week distribution calendars and eligibility notes.

• Check county social services websites or hotlines. Some counties run emergency grocery-card or produce box programs during federal disruptions.

• Schools and senior centers: Ask about meal sites or produce distributions; some programs continue with separate funding.

• Documents to bring: A photo ID if you have one, proof of address, and shopping bags—requirements vary, and most pantries will serve you even if you’re missing something.

CalFresh (California) and other state-specific notes

• CalFresh participants can use any existing EBT balance in November.

• Unless the shutdown ends or the state steps in, new November CalFresh issuances are on hold, with some rule changes also scheduled for Nov. 1 (including how certain utility costs are counted and expanded work rules for some adults). Counties are posting updates; watch for text alerts and voicemail messages from your caseworker.

Key dates and what to watch

• Oct. 24–27: USDA communicated that contingency funds will not be used to cover November SNAP. Multiple governors, attorneys general, and bipartisan groups of lawmakers demanded action.

• Nov. 1: Without new appropriations or a standalone fix, no federal SNAP benefits issue. New work-requirement rules activate the same day for certain recipients.

• Early November: States may announce temporary state-funded aid or special distributions. These vary and may be limited by state law or budgets.

• Any day: Congress could pass a short-term or targeted bill to fund November SNAP; watch for announcements from your state agency.

Practical steps if you rely on SNAP or EBT

1. Check your EBT balance today, plan meals using what’s available, and prioritize shelf-stable items that stretch (beans, rice, pasta, oats, canned fish/veg).

2. Save receipts and track remaining benefits; some states will ask for proof of need if emergency local aid opens.

3. If you’re an ABAWD (adult 18–64 with no dependents), look for qualifying work/volunteer/education activities your state recognizes. Exemptions may apply; ask your caseworker.

4. If you moved or changed phones, update contact info with your state agency so you receive any emergency texts about late issuances or state stop-gaps.

5. For families with kids, ask your school about meal program options during the lapse.

6. If your card is lost or damaged, call the EBT customer service number on your state agency’s site for a replacement; existing funds remain available once the new card is activated.

Government shutdown update: where negotiations stand

The shutdown, which began October 1, remains unresolved. The White House and congressional leaders continue to trade blame while negotiating the order of operations—whether to reopen the government first or tie reopening to separate policy demands. Several proposals exist, including standalone bills to keep SNAP funded in November. Until one passes or a broader funding deal is signed, SNAP benefits for November will not be issued federally.

November SNAP benefits and food stamps

• If the shutdown continues into November: expect no new SNAP deposits, but existing EBT balances are usable.

• Ignore “Walmart closing Nov. 1” rumors: they’re not true; stores remain open and EBT works for current balances.

• Help is available now: call 211, contact your local food bank or pantry, and monitor state agency updates—some states may announce temporary aid.

• Rules may change for some adults on Nov. 1: confirm whether new work requirements or exemptions apply to you.

This story is developing. If the shutdown ends or a targeted bill passes, states can resume issuing benefits quickly; watch for official messages from your state SNAP office and county human services.