NYC raises daily SNAP produce match to $14 starting January 2027
The increase adds $4 to the current daily cap, expanding local incentives for fresh food purchases by 40 percent.
By James Mitchell ·
Starting in January 2027, New York City residents who use SNAP benefits will receive a larger daily match when buying fresh fruits and vegetables. The daily cap for Health Bucks, a municipal incentive program, will rise from $10 to $14. This represents a 40 percent increase in the maximum amount of local coupons a participant can earn per day.
The change was announced by Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration on October 29, 2026. The program, run by the New York City Department of Health, matches eligible SNAP purchases made at participating farmers markets and produce stands. Currently, the city provides $2 in Health Bucks for every $2 spent using an EBT card. Under the new rules, a shopper who spends $14 on eligible produce will receive $14 in coupons, creating a total purchasing power of $28 for fresh items.
Health Bucks has operated since 2005. Over two decades, the department distributed more than $20 million in coupons. The 2027 expansion coincides with the program’s 20th anniversary. City officials estimate the higher cap will distribute nearly $2.3 million in incentives during the year. The funds will support more than 100 markets across the five boroughs that accept EBT payments.
The increase is funded by municipal resources and $5.7 million in new grants from the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentives Program, a federal initiative. The department clarified that the change does not alter federal SNAP allotments or the monthly benefits deposited onto EBT cards. It strictly expands the local matching incentive for fresh produce purchases.
City health data highlights the need for expanded access. A recent survey found that nearly 80 percent of adults at risk of food insecurity struggled to afford balanced meals. An additional 18 percent reported not eating fruits or vegetables the day before the survey. About one-third of this group relied on emergency food services such as community pantries for sustenance.
Dr. Alister F. Martin, the NYC Health Commissioner, stated that knowing what to eat and being able to afford it are distinct challenges. He noted that raising the Health Bucks limit aims to increase purchasing power for SNAP recipients while supporting local farmers. Participants can find participating markets via the department’s online map or by texting "Muy Rico" to 55676.
