FNS Documents & Resources

This is a new information collection for the contract of the study titled “Evaluating the Interview Requirement for SNAP Certification.” The purpose of this collection is to help FNS describe the effects of waiving the interview requirement, including SNAP agency processes and staff experiences with implementing the no-interview demonstration, analyzing the differences in outcomes for SNAP applicants and recipients, and identifying key lessons to inform future policy or implementation.

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.

The proposed rule would revise SNAP regulations to standardize the methodology for calculating standard utility allowances. 

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. 

Questions and Answers for the 2008 Farm Bill

Time line of the Food Stamp Program (FSP) to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Attached are additional questions and answers in response to issues raised by state agencies on SNAP certification and eligibility provisions of the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008.

Questions and answers on the certification issues in the 2008 Farm Bill. 

On June 18, 2008, Congress enacted PL 110-246. Attached is an implementing memo describing the Food Stamp provision of The Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008.

Attached is a fourth series of Q&As developed to address questions arising from states’ enactment of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 (PL 105-33). The answers do not establish new policy. They are an interpretation of the relevant provisions and their intent, and should serve as a guide until issuance of regulations.