FNS Documents & Resources

This memo explains that FNS is offering certain states the opportunity to request a short-term interview waiver. FNS recognizes that unwinding from the PHE and staffing challenges have put a continuing strain on states and is providing additional time for states to return to normal processing regarding the interview.

This memo seeks to clarify existing policy and flexibilities regarding the use of nonmerit personnel in the administration of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

This memo reiterates and clarifies existing online application policy for state agencies. 

This memo provides State agencies with guidance on allowable use of advanced automation technologies. 

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.

FNS will collect and approve information from state agencies on how the various state SNAP agencies develop, update, change and implement options will be determined for SUAs for household.

This is an existing collection in use without an OMB Control Number to seek approval to establish a process for requesting a waiver from FNS to offer SNAP recipients incentives at SNAP authorized retailer locations that encourage them to purchase healthier foods.

This information collection addresses the mandatory state agency information and burden estimates associated with the following state agency options under SNAP: establishing and reviewing standard utility allowances and establishing methodology for offsetting cost of producing self-employment income.

Pursuant to the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, and based on the exceptional circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, FNS is extending the nationwide waiver to allow meal service operations outside of the standard meal service times in the Summer Food Service Program and the National School Lunch Program Seamless Summer Option through Sept. 30, 2022.