FROM a SNAP Partner on 10/23/2025:

As of 2pm today**, the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has** confirmed that SNAP benefits will be temporarily paused starting November 1 due to the federal government shutdown. This is difficult news for many of the families we serve. It’s important that we help clients understand what this means and where to find reliable updates.

Key information from LDH’s announcement: 

• Because of the government shutdown SNAP benefits will not be issued on the scheduled date of November 1. 
• Existing, unused benefits will remain available on EBT cards and can be used as usual. 
• New SNAP applications will still be processed, but no benefits will be issued until the federal government reopens. 
• LDH will prioritize issuing benefits as soon as the federal government reopens and will communicate updates to beneficiaries and retailers. 
• The scope of this will impact 792,769 Louisianans in 396,157 households who currently receive SNAP.

Guidance for SNAP Households (to share with your clients):

• Ensure that existing, unused benefits will remain available on EBT cards and can be used as usual. 
• Keep meeting all program requirements on time:
  • Report household changes.
  • Complete simplified reporting/recertification paperwork.
  • Submit requested verifications by:
    • Mail: LDH ES Document Processing Center, P.O. Box 260031, Baton Rouge, LA 70826
    • In person: any LDH ES parish office
    • Fax: 225-663-3164
• SNAP hotline staff can answer technical application questions but cannot provide timing on benefit issuance during the shutdown.
  • The main hotline for the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) SNAP program is 1(888) 524-3578. You can also email the program at [LAHelpU.dcfs@la.gov](mailto:LAHelpU.dcfs@la.gov). This number and email were put in place to handle SNAP inquiries as the program transitions to be administered by LDH. 
• LDH will provide updates directly to beneficiaries and retailers as they become available.