~Updated November 1, 2011

The primary objective of this Handbook is to ensure successful approval and subsequent Federal funding of projects supporting FNS programs to modernize benefit delivery.

FNS programs include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The key component to obtain approval and funding is the Advance Planning Document (APD). This Handbook also emphasizes the coordination within FNS, State agencies, Regional Offices, and Headquarters stakeholders. Communication and coordination between FNS automation, financial, and program entities is necessary for the successful oversight and management of these system automation projects.

FNS Handbook 901 - Advance Planning Documents  - a printable, searchable version of the full document

FNS Handbook 901 Cover (for print versions)

FNS Handbook 901 -  by chapters
Table of Contents
1.0  Introduction
       Key Stakeholders in the APD Process
       Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
       Supplemental Food Programs for WIC
2.0  The APD Process
       Advance Planning Documents
       PAPD Process
       IAPD Process
       APDU Process
       APDU As Needed Process
       Emergency Acquisition Request Process
       APD Closure
       RFP Process
       Key Stakeholder Responsibilities
       FNS Review
       On-Site Reviews and Monitoring
3.0  Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
       Program Funding
       APD Process for FSP Certification and Eligibility Systems
       APD Process for FSP EBT
4.0  Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women,        Infants, and Children
       APD Process for WIC
       APD Process for WIC EBT
5.0  Project Management
       Roles and Responsibilities
       Project Management Life Cycle
       SDLC Methodologies
       Work Breakdown Structure
       Risk Management
       QA and IV&V
       Monitoring and Oversight
       Project Closeout
6.0  Procurement
       Acquisition Process
       RFPs
       Types and Roles of Contractors
       Contractor Support Options during the SDLC
       Awarding Contracts
       Types of Contracts
       Contract Components and Requirements
       Conflict of Interest
       Disputes
       Contract Closeout
7.0  Financial Management
       Federal Cost Principles
       Common Cost Items
       Cost Allocation
       Cost Reviews and Audits
       Budgeting
       Expenditure Reporting
8.0  Systems Security
       Security Reviews
       Management Controls
       Technical Controls
       EBT-Specific Controls
       Security Plans

Exhibit 1 - FNS Regional Offices

Appendix A - Acronym Listing

Appendix B - Glossary

Appendix C - Regulations

Appendix D
        Feasibility Study Checklist
        Cost-Benefit Analysis Checklist
        RFP Review Checklist
        SNAP Pre- Post-Implementation Review Checklist
        WIC Post-Implementation Review Checklist
        Status Report Checklist
        State Sole Source Exception Request Template
        State Sample Transmittal Letter Template
        State Sample Transmittal Letter - RFP
        Sample Budgets
        Steps to a Successful Feasibility Study

Appendix E - Sample Status Report

Appendix F - Federal Procurement Clauses

Appendix G - Getting Ready for WIC EBT

Appendix H - Security Plan Checklist

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Last modified: 11/30/2011