OLYMPIA, Wash. – Temporary pandemic benefits are coming to an end for those who rely on federal food programs.

Emergency allotments for people receiving SNAP benefits will end nationwide at the end of February 2023.

Congress allowed for the extra funding in 2020, and some states have gradually ended the surplus benefits over the past two years.

Washington is among the states that still have the emergency allotments available for residents in need of food assistance.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says it is in contact with local SNAP partners to make sure recipients are not caught by surprise when the emergency benefits end.