3SquaresVT Updates

Tracking Federal Changes to 3SquaresVT +

On July 4, 2025, Congress passed a bill (a "budget reconciliation bill") that included changes to SNAP eligibility, benefits, and funding which go into effect on different dates.

Changes: For a one-page summary of eligibility changes to 3SquaresVT, including dates of when these changes will occur, click here. If you can't access this document, please scroll down.

Notices: The state 3SquaresVT agency (DCF-ESD) will notify people during the weeks of September 8th and 15th who are impacted by eligilbity or benefits changes.

What to say now: "Right now, eligibility for 3SquaresVT remains the same. People who are impacted by eligibility or benefit changes will receive information in the mail in mid-September before changes go into effect on October 1, 2025."

Last updated: August 20, 2025

Federal changes to 3SquaresVT will impact people in Vermont.

Here is what we know now:

• Right now, 3SquaresVT eligibility hasn’t changed. DCF-ESD (the state 3SquaresVT agency) is reviewing applications and maintaining benefits as usual. DCF-ESD is working to implement changes as of October 1, 2025.
• If you currently get 3SquaresVT, continue to use those benefits as usual.
• If you think you qualify for 3SquaresVT, it’s worth it to learn more.

3SquaresVT Eligibility for Immigrants Will Change

• Eligibility for immigrants will be limited to:
  • legal permanent residents if disabled, under 18, or meeting work quarter eligibility,
  • Cuban and Haitian entrants,
  • Amerasians,
  • Hmong or Highland Laotian Tribal Members, and
  • COFA citizens.
• Refugees, people granted asylum, and other currently eligible immigrants will no longer qualify.
• Children or other eligible household members may still qualify even if their parents or household members no longer qualify.

3SquaresVT Work Rules Will Change

• Some adults on 3SquaresVT who are 18-54 without children or disabilities have to report work to keep benefits for more than 3 months, unless they meet an exemption. DCF-ESD calls this the “Time Limited Benefit Work Requirement.”

• This rule will be expanded to more people who will need to report to DCF-ESD if they are meeting the work rule or meet an exemption:

  • Adults 18-64
  • Adults living with children 14 and older
  • Veterans
  • People experiencing homelessness
  • People under 25 who were in foster care at age 18

• No one is at risk of losing 3SquaresVT because of work rules until February 2026, but it’s important for people to let DCF-ESD know if they are exempt, because it may help them keep benefits for longer. Learn more about work rules here.

3SquaresVT Utility Expenses Will Change

• Right now, everyone who gets 3SquaresVT is able to get an automatic utility deduction (Standard Utility Allowance). This simplifies paperwork and results in a higher benefit amount.
• This will change, so only households with an older or disabled member will automatically get the utility deduction.

Annual Changes to 3SquaresVT 10/1/25 +

Every year, the 3SquaresVT program is updated to reflect changes to the program with federal annual cost of living adjustments. Changes include

• Income Eligibility Limits
• Monthly Benefit Amounts
• Some changes to Deductions

We will publish new income limits and benefit amounts ahead of October 1, 2025.

Don't let your 3SquaresVT Benefits expire! +

Did you know that 3SquaresVT Benefits only expire if you don't use your EBT Card at all for 9 months?

If your Benefits are at risk of expiring (or being "expunged"), you will receive a notice in the mail from ESD stating that your Benefits may be expunged.

It's easy prevent your Benefits from expiring: just use your EBT card at least once to be sure 9 months don't pass without you using it.

You have multiple ways to find out your EBT Card balance:

• Call the number on the back of the EBT card or log onto ebtEdge, or
• Call  1-800-479-6151 and speak to a customer service representative, or
• Visit a local district office.

Protect your 3SquaresVT Benefits from Scammers! +

Heads up! Scammers are on the prowl, and may try to steal your 3SquaresVT benefits. They may call, text, or email you.

Remember, NEVER share your EBT card number or personal info unless YOU are the preson reaching out directly to an ESD worker.

If you receive any suspicious emails or calls asking for this info, remember: it's a scam! Spread the word and keep your benefits safe.

If you suspect you are a victim of a scam and have had benefits stolen, click here to learn more or call 1-800-479-6151 and speak to a customer service representative.

How to Apply for 3SquaresVT +

Current economic hardship is impacting all of us, and many people who have not used 3SquaresVT in the past are newly eligible. If your financial situation has changed, you may be eligible for 3SquaresVT.

To get help applying

• Call 2-1-1
• Text ‘VFBSNAP’ to 85511
• If you are 60 or older, call the Helpline at 1-800-642-5119 for personalized assistance.
• For information and help in other languages call 1-855-247-3092.
• If you have questions and need to speak with a state Benefits Specalist, call the helpline at (800) 479-6151.

For more information about the 3SquaresVT application, click here.

For frequently asked questions, click here.