FNS Documents & Resources

School food authority certification of compliance with meal requirements data by state.

States annually update Standard Utility Allowances (SUAs) to reflect changes in utility costs. When determining a household’s eligibility, states consider a household’s total shelter costs, including the cost of utilities. Since actual utility costs are often hard to determine, states can use SUAs, which are standard amounts that represent low-income household utility costs in the state or local area. SUAs may be used in lieu of the household's actual costs when determining eligibility and benefit amount.

We adjust SNAP maximum allotments, deductions, and income eligibility standards at the beginning of each federal fiscal year. 

FNS hosted a webinar to provide state agencies and food banks with information about how TEFAP can support cultural and religious practices around food, particularly those serving kosher and halal observant communities. The webinar featured panelists from state agencies and food banks who have successfully implemented processes to serve these specific communities.

This is the official list of the only tools authorized to certify schools as eligible for the additional performance-based reimbursement.

This information is provided to assist state agencies, school food authorities, and local schools with the selection of a software program that has been USDA-approved for nutrient analyses required in the school meal programs.