Two judges have ordered the Trump administration to use the $5 billion SNAP contingency fund after 24 Democratic states sued to force a temporary solution.

But here’s the problem: SNAP benefits cost roughly $8.3 billion every month, leaving a $3.3 billion shortfall even with this court order. That means millions will receive less—or nothing at all.

Meanwhile, Democrats continue to hold up the Senate’s Continuing Resolution, demanding that healthcare subsidies be restored. November 1 also marks open enrollment for 2026 health coverage, which will mean higher premiums as long as the government stays shut down.

And if this closure drags on through December? There’s no backup fund left—and no plan for next month’s SNAP payments. Let’s hope there isn’t a natural disaster to make things even worse.