FNS Documents & Resources

This memorandum is intended to clarify FNS policy regarding men who are victims of domestic violence residing in shelters for battered women and children, which will henceforth be referred to as shelters for battered persons. Both the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended (the Act), and SNAP regulations allow certain flexibilities for victims of domestic violence who are fleeing their abuser.

This memorandum provides guidance on the household status of same-sex married couples in light of the United States Supreme Court's June 26, 2013, decision in United States v. Windsor (Windsor) for purposes of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility.

The attached questions and answers are intended to address state agency concerns about the effects of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act on SNAP. 

On Feb. 7, 2014, SNAP was reauthorized as part of The Agricultural Act of 2014. Attached is an implementing memorandum describing Section 4006, "Standard Utility Allowances Based on the Receipt of Energy Assistance."