Governor Abbott, HHSC Announce SNAP Replacement Benefits Extension Following Winter Storm
Austin, Texas — January 30, 2026 – Governor Greg Abbott on Friday announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has received federal approval to extend the deadline for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to apply for replacement benefits for food lost or destroyed during the January winter storm.
The extension gives Texans additional time to recover from freezing temperatures and power outages that caused widespread food spoilage across the state. Under the new timeline, SNAP recipients have until February 23, 2026, to request replacement benefits.
“Thanks to our partners in the White House, Texans affected by the recent winter storm have more time to apply for SNAP benefits to replace any food they lost,” Abbott said. “By extending the replacement benefit deadline, Texans are better equipped to feed their families and recover from the effects of the freezing weather.”
Abbott also thanked HHSC and the Trump administration for their role in securing the extension, emphasizing the importance of rapid assistance following severe weather events.
HHS Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth said the extension will help families still facing challenges after the storm. “The winter storm and power outages left many communities in difficult situations,” Muth said. “We are thankful that we can offer this support to families who are still recovering from the storms.”
Once a request is approved, replacement SNAP benefits are expected to be added to recipients’ Lone Star Cards within two business days, according to HHSC.
To apply, SNAP recipients must visit a local HHSC office in person to request replacement benefits. Office locations can be found at YourTexasBenefits.com by selecting “Find an Office” at the bottom of the page.
HHSC officials noted that additional disaster-related assistance information is available on the agency’s Receiving Disaster Assistance webpage. Texans in need of local resources such as food, shelter, or other emergency services can also dial 2-1-1 and select option 1 for assistance.
State leaders encouraged eligible households to apply as soon as possible to ensure timely access to replacement benefits.
