In New Jersey, one in eleven people rely on SNAP, over 800,000 strong. This makes any delay in funds a serious threat to family meals and health. On October 31, Gov. Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency due to a federal shutdown.
This shutdown halted new SNAP funding from November 1, 2025. The move aimed to protect households while courts made their decisions.
Just days later, a federal court restored full November 2025 benefits on November 7. By November 14, the Murphy Administration said there would be no disruptions. Yet, the state of emergency remains a warning to stay vigilant.
This is a big moment in local New Jersey news. It also affects those watching the state of emergency in New York today.
When Murphy declares a state of emergency, agencies can quickly help with food, support, and fraud prevention. This is critical because nearly half of SNAP users are kids, one-third have disabilities, and one in five are over 60. Families are relieved but need clear guidance from Murphy and state partners on what’s next.
Gov. Phil Murphy declares New Jersey state of emergency over SNAP suspension
With federal aid stalled, New Jersey acted quickly to ensure food for families. The state declared a state of emergency to keep meals accessible. Officials promised that no family would be left without support.
Executive Order No. 402: Purpose and scope
Executive Order No. 402 aims to fill food gaps in New Jersey. It supports food banks and works with local groups. The order sees the SNAP suspension as a threat to public health.
Activation time: 12:00 a.m., November 1, 2025
The emergency began at 12:00 a.m. on November 1, 2025. Households could use leftover funds from previous months. Those getting State benefits received a limited amount during the emergency.
Coordinated statewide response to protect public health and welfare
Under the emergency, agencies boosted pantry supplies and hours. They also kept people informed. The state encouraged checking NJFamiliesFirst.com and calling 800-997-3333 for updates.
Key agencies and emergency actions empowered
The order lets Human Services support SNAP and work with the USDA. The Office of Emergency Management handles logistics. After a court ruling, full November benefits were issued on November 7, boosting confidence.
Who is affected: 800,000 New Jersey residents relying on SNAP
In New Jersey, over 800,000 people count on SNAP to eat. Local new jersey news shared how families, seniors, and workers were hit hard. Those traveling from New York to New Jersey also kept up with updates.
Nearly half are children; one-third are people with a disability; one in five are over 60
Almost half of SNAP users are kids, who need food to learn and grow. One-third are people with disabilities, who face extra costs. And one in five are seniors, who have to stretch their budgets as prices go up.
Impact of a lapse in benefits on household food security
When benefits stop, families might skip meals or buy less food. This is a big problem for kids, seniors, and people with disabilities. Even a short pause can lead to hunger and health issues.
Local New Jersey news context and community implications
Food banks and pantries saw more people coming in. Community kitchens had longer lines. People used NJ 211 and ZIP code tools to find help, as seen in local new jersey news.
As news of New York’s state of emergency spread, New Jersey residents watched for how it would affect them.
Current NJ SNAP status and what recipients should do now
The nj snap status has changed in the state of nj as program operations resume. Many residents wonder, is nj in a state of emergency and does it affect benefits. Here’s what households need to know to stay on track.
Full November 2025 benefits issued on Friday, November 7 after court ruling
Eligible households got their full November 2025 SNAP benefits on Friday, November 7. This came after a federal court ruling. The state of nj does not expect new interruptions to regular issuances.
How to check balances: NJFamiliesFirst.com or 800-997-3333
Cardholders can check their balance at NJFamiliesFirst.com or by calling 800-997-3333. For those checking nj snap status during the week, checks can be done any time. If you have questions about the state of emergency in nj, check state alerts and then review your EBT balance again.
What carries over from October 2025 and prior months
Any unused funds from October 2025 or earlier months carried over and stayed accessible. Households receiving a state-funded SNAP-related amount continued to get that limited payment through the lapse. This helps stabilize budgets while people confirm the latest nj snap status and whether is nj in a state of emergency affects local access.
Where to find official updates: njsnap.gov and nj.gov/SNAPshutdown
For authoritative updates, visit njsnap.gov and the dedicated resource hub at nj.gov/SNAPshutdown. Residents can also scan community food assistance information for timely guidance as the state of nj shares new notices.
| What to Do Now | Where to Do It | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Confirm November benefits | NJFamiliesFirst.com or 800-997-3333 | Verifies the nj snap status and available EBT balance |
| Use any carryover funds | EBT at authorized retailers and markets | Carryover from October 2025 and prior months remains active |
| Check official notices | njsnap.gov and nj.gov/SNAPshutdown | Answers questions like is nj in a state of emergency and is there state of emergency in nj |
| Stay informed on state steps | State of NJ public updates and alerts | Tracks policy changes that affect timing and access |
Accessing emergency food and support services in New Jersey
When money gets tight or storms hit, people can find help fast. The state of nj has tools to connect folks to food resources, even in bad weather. Those needing emergency food stamps can also get help through these channels.
Find emergency food distribution sites and food pantries by ZIP code
Just enter your ZIP code to find food pantries and soup kitchens. It’s wise to call first to check hours and what you need. This helps families find food near work, school, or public transport.
Using NJ 211 to locate community kitchens and fresh produce resources
Dial 211, visit NJ211.org, or text a ZIP code to 898-211 to find places with fresh food. NJ 211 is available all over the state, even in bad weather.
MyNJHelps, Basic Needs Information Hub, and Office of the Food Security Advocate
MyNJHelps and the Basic Needs Information Hub help you check if you qualify for food help. You can also apply for SNAP, WIC, and senior nutrition programs. The Office of the Food Security Advocate offers updates and connects you to food programs. Check out the State’s food assistance resources for more help.
Winter Termination Program: Utility assistance and shutoff protections
The Winter Termination Program helps keep homes warm and lit during cold months. It’s great for keeping food safe and reducing waste. It’s a good combo with local pantry help, making sure you’re stable during tough weather.
| Need | Where to Start | How It Helps | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearby pantry or soup kitchen | Search by ZIP code via NJ 211 | Find same-day food, hours, and contact info | Immediate meals or groceries during a gap |
| Fresh produce and community kitchens | Dial 211 or text ZIP to 898-211 | Lists sites with fruits, vegetables, and hot meals | When seeking healthier options or hot service |
| Benefits screening and applications | MyNJHelps and the Basic Needs Information Hub | Check eligibility and apply for emergency food stamps, SNAP, WIC | When income changes or during service delays |
| Senior and TEFAP/CSFP programs | Office of the Food Security Advocate updates | Connects to new jersey state food programs for older adults | For seniors or caregivers seeking monthly support |
| Utility assistance | Winter Termination Program | Shutoff protections that keep homes safe for food storage | Cold months or severe weather for new jersey |
Free school meals for children in NJ SNAP households
Families in New Jersey can get free breakfast and lunch for their kids during school hours. This support is part of the state’s food programs. It stays the same even when emergencies are declared.
Automatic eligibility and how to receive meals without a separate application
All kids in NJ SNAP households get free meals. No extra application is needed. They can just go to the cafeteria for meals.
This makes sure kids eat well even when there are disruptions. It fits with the state’s food goals. It also helps during emergencies in New York.
Steps for students not currently receiving free meals to apply via school district
If a student doesn’t get free meals yet, the family should call the school. They need to ask for the application and share the NJ SNAP status.
They can also call the main line to check on the process. This makes sure kids get healthy food quickly. It helps schools act fast during emergencies.
| What families do | Who to contact | When benefits start | What students receive |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP households: send students to the cafeteria as normal | School cafeteria staff or food service director | Immediately for SNAP households; no separate form | Free breakfast and lunch each school day |
| Not currently receiving free meals: request a district application | Local school district office or principal’s office | After the district reviews and confirms eligibility | Same free meal options as other eligible students |
| Confirm ongoing service during emergencies | District communications and recorded hotlines | Per district notices during any emergency period | Nutritionally balanced menus aligned with new jersey state food policies |
SNAP-related fraud alerts and how to protect your benefits
Scammers target SNAP EBT users when fear and confusion rise. During the murphy state of emergency nj and similar alerts, the state of nj urged families to slow down, double-check messages, and guard their cards. Clear steps and calm action can stop theft before it starts.
Residents also watched headlines like state of emergency new york today, which showed how fast rumors spread across borders. That is why timely alerts and simple tips matter for every household budget.
Guidance from the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs
The NJ Division of Consumer Affairs warns that no agency will ask for an EBT PIN by phone, text, email, or social media. They recommend using trusted state of nj channels for updates and calling only official hotlines listed on benefit materials or the back of the card.
They advise saving case numbers and dates when speaking with county boards of social services. Keep these records in case disputed charges appear later.
Recognizing phishing, card skimming, and SNAP EBT scams
- Phishing: Fake texts or emails claim your EBT is locked and ask for your PIN or card number. Delete and report them.
- Card skimming: Hidden readers on store terminals copy card data. Check for loose keypads, odd card slots, or cameras aimed at PIN pads.
- Impersonation calls: Scammers pose as “benefit specialists.” Hang up and dial the number printed on your EBT card.
During periods like the murphy state of emergency nj, scams may spike. If a message pressures you to act fast, treat it as a red flag.
Best practices: PIN changes, card security, and reporting fraud
- Change your EBT PIN often and never share it. Use a PIN that is not a birthday or repeat number.
- Cover the keypad when entering your PIN and keep the card in a safe place, separate from your wallet if possible.
- Monitor balances at NJFamiliesFirst.com or by calling 800-997-3333 after each purchase.
- Report suspected fraud at once through official state of nj channels and keep copies of receipts.
Tip: If a terminal looks tampered with, use another checkout or a different store.
How the federal government shutdown influenced NJ and nearby states
The federal shutdown created gaps in information that scammers tried to exploit. New Jersey issued fast consumer guidance, while nearby states cited in state of emergency new york today updates tracked similar tactics at grocery stores and ATMs.
By following alerts from the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs and county agencies, households can cut risk and keep benefits secure throughout the murphy state of emergency nj period and beyond.
Key timelines: shutdown updates, municipal notices, and benefit restoration
From fall 2025, people watched as New Jersey worked to keep food available. The state of emergency helped keep things running. Local news kept families updated, along with news from New York.
Shutdown progression through October–November 2025 and municipal alerts
The federal budget ended on September 30, starting a series of updates. Alerts came on October 1, 8, 22, and 29, and again on November 5. By November 12, cities were ready for the shutdown to end.
Executive Order No. 402 made the emergency official on November 1 at midnight. Cities and counties kept families informed. Local news and New York updates helped everyone plan.
Federal court ruling and the restoration of November 2025 NJ SNAP benefits
A court ruling allowed benefits to be restored. SNAP payments were made on November 7, easing shopping. This helped during the shutdown.
Households in New Jersey could shop normally again. Stores were ready, and local news kept everyone informed. News from New York helped those near the border.
What to expect next per the Murphy Administration’s guidance
By November 14, the Murphy Administration said no more disruptions were expected. People should check their balances and use carryover funds if needed. The emergency plan is ready if needed again.
Residents can shop as usual, watching for updates. Local news will post any last-minute information. News from New York will keep commuters informed.
Conclusion
New Jersey acted quickly with Executive Order No. 402 to help with SNAP benefits. The order brought together agencies, increased food access, and helped people find reliable resources. After a court decision, the state paid out full November 2025 benefits on November 7. They expect no more delays as things go back to normal.
Households should keep their routines simple and consistent. They can check their balances online or by phone. For the latest news, visit njsnap.gov and nj.gov/SNAPshutdown. NJ 211 can help find food banks and hot meals nearby.
SNAP families can get free school meals without extra paperwork. Everyone should stay alert for EBT scams. The state’s quick action helped keep food available and protected public health, even when money was tight.
People should also keep an eye on local news for updates on services. This includes changes in New York, which can affect store hours and school schedules. As the emergency ends, New Jersey is focusing on food security and clear information.
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