This memo is in response to questions raised through Quality Control reviews related to student eligibility for SNAP benefits. Section 6(e) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 and federal regulations at 7 CFR 273.5(a) prohibit students enrolled at least half-time in an institution of higher education from receiving SNAP benefits unless specific exemptions are met.
This rule finalizes provisions of an interim rule entitled "Food Stamp Program: Non-Discretionary Quality Control Provisions of Title IV of PL 107-171'' published on Oct. 16, 2003, and a proposed rule entitled "Food Stamp Program: Discretionary Quality Control Provisions of Title IV of PL 107-171'' published on Sept. 23, 2005.
This policy applies to all TANF-funded subsidized employment paid to SNAP clients or applicants in the form of wages, regardless of the source of TANF funding, including but not limited to funds available to states and Indian tribes through the Emergency Contingency Fund for state TANF programs.