How to Budget $1937 in Monthly Food Stamps for Your Family

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides vital food assistance to over 40 million Americans each month. For a family of four, the maximum benefit amount is $1937 per month.

While this may seem like a lot, it's important to budget carefully to make these funds last for an entire month of meals. With some planning, you can provide healthy, nutritious food for your family on a tight budget.
 

Determine Your Monthly Grocery Needs

To budget $1937 in food stamps, start by calculating how much you spend on groceries each month for essentials. This includes things like bread, milk, eggs, fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Don't include non-food items.

A good rule of thumb is about $200-$400 per person for a month of groceries. For a family of four, you're looking at roughly $800-$1600 total. Your actual needs may be higher or lower, so track your normal spending.
 

Plan Your Meals Around Sales

With your total grocery needs in mind, check store ads for the best weekly sales on staples and stock up. Buy larger sizes or multiples when the price is right. Plan your meals around the ingredients you find on sale.

Stock up on non-perishables that your family eats often. Don't waste money on impulse purchases or junk food. 

Compare Prices for the Best Deals

Some stores regularly offer lower prices on certain staples. Do some comparison shopping at different stores to find the best deals on things like rice, beans, oats, pasta, canned goods, and frozen produce.

When possible, buy generic or store brand items which often cost less. Once you find the best prices, stock up on non-perishables to save more of your benefits for fresh foods.
 

Cook More, Eat Out Less

To make $1937 in food stamps last an entire month, avoid eating out. Cooking more meals at home using whole ingredients is a much more budget-friendly option. You'll save a lot of money by not paying restaurant markups and tips.

Get the whole family involved in meal planning and prep. Home-cooked meals also tend to be healthier, which is important when you're on a tight budget.

Your careful planning will help ensure you have enough to provide healthy meals for your entire family all month long. Budgeting your food stamps will make a world of difference.