Impact of federal government shutdown on SNAP and HEAP benefits

Published on October 25, 2025

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Tompkins County leadership and the Department of Social Services (DSS) are aware of the uncertainty surrounding the potential impacts of the ongoing federal government shutdown and are committed to keeping residents informed.

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, November Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits may be delayed, and the opening of the 2025–2026 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) has been postponed to November 17, 2025.

The county is working closely with the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) to monitor the situation. We will share updates as soon as new information becomes available.

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

October SNAP benefits are being issued as usual. However, November SNAP benefits may be delayed. SNAP benefits cannot be issued for November unless the federal government shutdown ends or other federal action provides the necessary funding.

What you need to know

  • OTDA will notify SNAP households by November 1, 2025, of the status of November SNAP benefits.
  • DSS continues to accept and process SNAP applications and recertifications as normal.
  • Cash assistance and supportive service payments are not affected.
  • No action is required by SNAP recipients at this time. Any pause in benefit issuance will be handled at the state level.

How you will be notified

  • Visit otda.ny.gov/shutdown for up-to-date information and FAQs.
  • OTDA will share updates on the OTDA website, myBenefits, ebtEDGE mobile app, and via text alerts to SNAP households.
  • Important to note: Clients will not receive any written notice about the impact of the federal shutdown on November benefits.

For questions about SNAP benefits, contact the Tompkins County DSS at 607-274-5680 or visit tompkinscountyny.gov/dss.

HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program)

The opening date for the 2025-2026 HEAP Regular Component has been postponed to November 17, 2025. If the federal government shutdown continues, the opening date may be postponed further.

What you need to know

  • The Tompkins County DSS office is accepting Early Outreach HEAP applications.
  • Applications can be processed, but payments will be held until the program officially opens and federal funds are released.

For questions about HEAP benefits, contact the Tompkins County DSS at 607-274-5680 or visit tompkinscountyny.gov/dss.

Support for households

We recognize that food security is a fundamental need, and these uncertainties can cause stress and confusion. If you or someone you know needs immediate food, utility, or heating assistance, contact the Tompkins County DSS at 607-274-5680.

You can also dial 2-1-1 to speak to someone who can help connect you to community services 24/7, or text your zip code to TXT211 (898211) during regular business hours. Find more 211 information at 211 Tompkins Cortland.

There are multiple places where you can get free food or prepared meals in Tompkins County. Local resources provide free food and prepared meals (locations and daily schedule) and non-perishable food in outdoor food cabinets (map with locations). You can also consult The Food Pantries Food Connect Map.

We are here to help

We understand the uncertainty caused by the federal government shutdown. Tompkins County is monitoring the situation closely, working with OTDA and community partners to minimize disruptions, support those impacted, and ensure no one faces this situation alone.

We will continue to share updates through our website, local media, and community partners as soon as verified information is available from state and federal sources. 

 

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