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Improving Access and Parity in TEFAP

In October 2024, we published a final rule that updates TEFAP regulations to increase access to the program and to and to increase parity within it. Most of the changes take effect within 60 days of the rule’s publication, on Dec. 30, 2024.

We will be holding a webinar on Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, from 3:00 – 3:30pm EST for all TEFAP state agencies to discuss the TEFAP changes in the final rule. A recording of the webinar will be made available on this page. TEFAP state agencies should reach out to their FNS regional office contacts if they did not receive an invite to the webinar.

Overview

Expediting intake processes

Eligible recipient agencies (ERAs) will not need to collect the address of households receiving food for home consumption.

Standardizing income guidelines

All state agencies will now have income guidelines set at or above 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Sharing more information

ERA and eligibility criteria information will now be available on a public webpage.  Agencies will also need to meet new reporting requirements related to TEFAP participation.

image of a bin of apples in a food warehouse
Encouraging expansion in Tribal areas

Program regulations now explicitly encourage distribution of TEFAP in Tribal areas, in addition to rural areas.

Protecting participant information

New confidentiality requirements better protect TEFAP participant information.

Additional Resources

Page updated: October 30, 2024