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Special Disaster Rules for Accepting SNAP EBT Benefits for Hot Food Purchases

Publication Date
EO Guidance Document #
FNS-GD-2018-0029
Resource type
Policy Memos
Guidance Documents
Resource Materials
DATE: July 25, 2018
SUBJECT: Special Disaster Rules for Accepting SNAP EBT Benefits for Hot Food Purchases
TO: Hawaii County

Due to the power outages, severe flooding and displacements from homes caused by the Kilauea Volcanic Eruption, and effective immediately, retail food stores licensed by the Food and Nutrition Service and located in Hawaii County may accept SNAP benefits in exchange for HOT foods and foods intended to be consumed on retailer premises.

These special rules are in effect through August 24, 2018

When hot foods are purchased with SNAP EBT benefits through August 24, 2018, the purchases are NOT subject to sales tax, as the foods mentioned above are considered SNAP eligible during this period.

We encourage all SNAP authorized retail food stores in Hawaii County to post a special notice in the store letting SNAP customers know that they can use their SNAP EBT benefits to purchase hot foods and, where practical, may remain on the premises to consume those foods. Thank you for your assistance in aiding those impacted by the Kilauea Volcanic Eruption.

Page updated: January 13, 2022

The contents of this guidance document do not have the force and effect of law and are not meant to bind the public in any way. This document is intended only to provide clarity to the public regarding existing requirements under the law or agency policies.