5 Ways Retirees Can Maximize Their SNAP Benefits This Summer

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Inflation reached staggering new heights over the past few years and grocery prices were not immune to its effects. The Washington Post reported that food prices have increased about 25% over the past four years, outpacing overall inflation of 19 percent during the same period. For those on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, formerly known as food stamps, this is a serious problem.

However, if you’re eligible for SNAP benefits, there are several ways you can stretch your dollars further this summer.

5 Ways To Get More With Your SNAP Benefits This Summer

SNAP is a public food assistance program that helps individuals and families buy the food they need to maintain good health. The program serves as a lifeline for lower-income Americans in need of weekly groceries. 

Here are five ways to make your SNAP benefits go further, according to The National Council on Aging:

1. Utilize store loyalty programs. Many grocery and retail stores that carry grocery items offer some sort of loyalty program. You might be able to earn points to redeem for future purchases and take advantage of exclusive store discounts and sales. Typically, you can join store loyalty programs for free so it’s easy to take advantage of the savings. 
2. Only buy store-brand items. An easy way to always save on your grocery shopping is to buy store-brand items where possible. Store-brand items are almost always cheaper than brand-name products and are sometimes even better quality.
3. Find and use coupons. Whether you find them in your preferred store’s circular, online, or in your local newspaper, finding and using coupons will save you money and stretch your SNAP dollars much further.
4. Meal plan before shopping. Meal planning can not only save you time at the grocery store but it can also save you money. If you have a specific list of items you need to buy, and you stick to it, it helps prevent impulsive grocery purchases and you’ll only pay for the items you need. 
5. Shop sale items. It’s smart to take advantage of your local grocery store’s weekly sale items. Planning your weekly meals around what’s on sale that week can offer variety and can put more money back in your wallet.

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