Trump administration says SNAP is rife with fraud, but critics say description is misleading

The Trump administration is highlighting a 10.6% payment error rate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), equating it to billions lost through fraud, waste, and abuse. This figure, nearly double the acceptable threshold, represents over $10 billion in improper payments for fiscal year 2025. The administration uses this data to argue for program reforms.

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The food-stamp program's payment error rate was 10.6% for fiscal year 2025, almost double the 6% threshold established as acceptable under the Republicans' 2025 "big, beautiful bill act" (OBBBA).

However, anti-hunger advocates and experts challenge this framing. They explain that the payment error rate primarily measures over- or under-payments, which are often unintentional. These errors can arise from the program's complexity, reporting requirements, or sudden changes in recipients' financial situations, such as job loss or gain. Fraud, a distinct issue involving deliberate deception like selling benefits for cash, is not fully captured by this metric.

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Payment errors are "mostly unintentional because the policy is very complex, and there are a lot of reporting requirements" that households may not be aware of.

Republicans, including Rep. Tim Burchett, emphasize that every dollar in SNAP should go to eligible individuals. They believe reducing errors and fraud will save taxpayer money and ensure benefits reach those truly in need. The debate centers on whether the "payment error rate" accurately reflects intentional misuse of funds or simply administrative and circumstantial mistakes within a complex system designed to assist millions of low-income families.

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Every dollar in this program is intended to help feed eligible individuals in need. That's not where every dollar goes, not by a long shot.