In a major win for SNAP recipients, a federal judge has blocked the Trump administration from forcing states to reverse full SNAP benefits already issued during the 43-day government shutdown. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani issued a temporary restraining order on November 12, 2025, preventing the USDA from enforcing its controversial memo demanding states “undo” November payments.
This SNAP federal judge ruling protects over 41 million low-income Americans from losing food assistance and ends weeks of chaos caused by conflicting court orders and federal guidance.
What the Federal Judge Said
Judge Talwani ruled that the administration cannot force states to claw back full November SNAP benefits already distributed. Key points from the decision:
- No reversal allowed: States that issued full benefits (e.g., California, New York, Massachusetts) can keep them in place.
- Emergency funds unlocked: $1.2 billion in frozen SNAP contingency funds must be released by November 14, 2025.
- USDA memo blocked: The agency’s November 8 directive to “immediately undo” payments was deemed “vindictive” and unenforceable.
- Irreparable harm prevented: Taking back benefits already spent on food would devastate vulnerable families.
“The confusion is of the agency’s own making,” Judge Talwani wrote, criticizing the USDA’s rapid reversal after initially telling states to issue full payments.
Timeline of the SNAP Benefits Crisis
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Nov 6 | Rhode Island federal judge orders full November SNAP funding |
| Nov 7 | USDA tells states to issue full benefits; 20+ states begin |
| Nov 7 (evening) | Supreme Court pauses the order |
| Nov 8 | USDA reverses, demands states “undo” payments |
| Nov 10 | 1st Circuit upholds original order |
| Nov 12 | Federal judge blocks clawback; protects issued benefits |
| Nov 13 | Government shutdown ends |
Which States Issued Full SNAP Benefits?
At least 20 states began distributing full November SNAP benefits before the USDA reversal:
- California
- New York
- Massachusetts
- Illinois
- Pennsylvania
- Florida
- Texas
- Washington
- Michigan
- New Jersey
Recipients in these states keep their full benefits—no repayment required.
What This Means for SNAP Recipients
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Will my benefits be taken away? | No—if your state issued full benefits, they are protected. |
| When will top-ups arrive? | By November 14–15, 2025 for partial payment states. |
| Are December benefits safe? | Yes—full funding resumes with the shutdown’s end. |
| Can I still apply for SNAP? | Yes—backlogged applications (500,000+) begin processing November 14. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will SNAP benefits be clawed back in my state?
No—the SNAP federal judge ruling prevents any reversal of full benefits already issued. Check your EBT balance to confirm.
I got a partial payment—when do I get the rest?
Top-ups begin November 14, 2025. Most states will complete deposits within 48 hours.
Is the 15% benefit cut still happening?
No—the federal judge’s order overrides earlier reduction plans. Full November benefits are now secured in compliant states.
What if my application was delayed?
USDA staff return November 14. Expect a decision within 30 days (or 7 days for expedited cases).
How do I check my SNAP balance?
- Online: Your state’s portal (ConnectEBT, ebtEDGE)
- Phone: Toll-free number on your EBT card
- Receipt: After any purchase
Need Help?
- Check eligibility: SNAP Eligibility Calculator
- Find your local office: USDA SNAP State Directory
- Emergency food: Call 211 or visit 211.org
- National hotline: 1-800-221-5689
This SNAP federal judge decision ensures food stays on the table for millions. With the shutdown over and payments resuming, the program is stabilizing—fast.