FNS Documents & Resources

The SNAP QC system use a tolerance level to set a monetary threshold for determining which QC errors are included in the calculation of payment error rates. This threshold is adjusted annually to correspond with changes in the Thrifty Food Plan.

FNS is conducting a study, Understanding Risk Assessment in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Payment Accuracy, to develop a comprehensive picture of whether and how SNAP state agencies use RA tools and determine if these tools create disparate impacts on protected classes. 

States are responsible for meeting federal SNAP requirements for timely processing of applications. This resource summarizes the valuable information contributed by participating states.

States are responsible for maintaining the integrity of SNAP by issuing accurate benefits to eligible households. This resource summarizes the valuable information contributed by participating states.

Case and procedural error rates assesses the accuracy of state agency actions in cases in which applicants were denied, terminated, or suspended and did not receive benefits. 

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.