FNS Documents & Resources

As more state agencies are able to offer households the option of applying for SNAP benefits online, the occurrence of households filing multiple electronic applications has become a more visible issue. FNS has been asked: must a state agency process each application submitted by a household in the application month, or may the state agency automatically deny the additional applications that follow the initial application submission? 

This memorandum transmits the first set of Questions and Answers that the Program Development Division has received about excluding the special weekly $25 Unemployment Compensation payments.

The following chart clarifies what verification requirements are mandatory at initial certification and describes the program flexibility within those requirements that may help reduce workload. The chart also lists the state options that may apply to each item of eligibility that could have workload impact.

Attached for immediate distribution to your respective state agencies are questions and answers on implementing a mini–Simplified Food Stamp Program to replace Food Stamp Program work requirements with those under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.

The SNAP certification provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 go into effect on April 1, 2009.

Attached are questions and answers in response to issues raised by the states, through various discussions, concerning SNAP provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 suspends restrictions on Able Bodied Adults Without Dependent participation in SNAP as of April 1, 2009 continuing through Sept. 30, 2010, unless state agencies choose to impose specific work requirements.

This memorandum is an updating of our policies when a state agency electronically records information from on-line electronic applications and interactive applications.

FNS is aware that state agencies are struggling to cope with mounting caseloads as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is responding to growing needs for food assistance. As state budgets become increasingly tight, few states are able to add staff to manage the greater demands. This memo is intended to review certification policies states may consider to support more efficient caseload management.