Affordable Food and Energy Act of 2026

This bill amends the Food and Nutrition Act to simplify how low-income households qualify for utility cost assistance when applying for food benefits (SNAP). It allows states to automatically include households that received over $20 annually in energy assistance (like LIHEAP) toward their utility allowance eligibility, without requiring separate documentation. The key change treats third-party energy payments made by states as if the household paid them directly, reducing paperwork for applicants. This directly affects households receiving both SNAP and energy assistance programs, making it easier for them to access the utility allowance. The changes take effect July 4, 2025.