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Resource | Proposed Rule Proposed Rule: Revision of Categorical Eligibility in the SNAP

USDA proposes updating the regulations to refine categorical eligibility requirements based on receipt of TANF benefits. Specifically, the Department proposes: (1) to define “benefits” for categorical eligibility to mean ongoing and substantial benefits; and (2) to limit the types of non-cash TANF benefits conferring categorical eligibility to those that focus on subsidized employment, work supports and childcare. The proposed rule would also require state agencies to inform FNS of all non-cash TANF benefits that confer categorical eligibility.

10/21/2019
Resource | Policy Revision of Categorical Eligibility in SNAP - Reopening of Comment Period

The Food and Nutrition Service proposed to make changes to SNAP regulations to refine categorical eligibility requirements based on receipt of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits. 

10/18/2019
Resource | Policy Memos Identity Authentication Pilot Projects – Conversion to State Option

Federal law requires state agencies to verify a SNAP applicant's identity and other critical information prior to certifying the household to participate in SNAP. In general, SNAP state agencies verify identity based on documentary evidence, such as a driver's license, obtained through the applicant or a third party.

08/21/2019
Resource | Policy Memos Information from Third Party Payroll Sources

This memorandum clarifies the use of third party payroll sources for SNAP certification policy and quality control purposes. The first two sections of this memorandum apply to certification policy and the section titled Quality Control Considerations provides details on how to treat verification from a third party payroll source for QC reviews.

08/21/2019
Resource | Policy Memos SNAP - FY 2020 Cost of Living Adjustments

This memorandum provides the FY 2020 Cost-of-Living Adjustments to the SNAP maximum allotments, income eligibility standards and deductions. COLAs are effective as of Oct. 1, 2019.

07/24/2019
Resource | Policy Memos State Flexibilities Related to Custodial and Noncustodial Parents' Cooperation with State Child Support Agencies

FNS is issuing this memorandum to alert all SNAP state agencies.of the available state options and requirements related to child support cooperation, as a condition of eligibility for SNAP.

05/01/2019
Resource | Policy Final Rule: SNAP Eligibility, Certification, and Employment and Training Provisions of the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008

This final rule amends the SNAP regulations to update procedures for accessing SNAP benefits in drug addiction or alcoholic treatment centers (DAA treatment centers) and group living arrangements (GLAs) through electronic benefit transfer (EBT).

02/19/2019
Resource | Policy Memos Clarification on Characteristics of Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility Programs Memo

FNS is issuing this memorandum in an effort to clarify the characteristics of BBCE programs and the actions states must take to ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.

12/27/2016
Resource | Proposed Rule Proposed Rule: SNAP Student Eligibility, Convicted Felons, Lottery and Gambling, and State Verification Provisions of the Agricultural Act of 2014

The proposed action would implement four sections of the Agricultural Act of 2014, (2014 Farm Bill), affecting eligibility, benefits, and program administration requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

12/01/2016
Resource | Policy Memos SNAP Clarification of Eligibility of Fleeing Felons Final Rule Questions and Answers March 2016

Since the Sept. 10, 2015 (80 FR 54410) publication of the final rule, Clarification of Eligibility of Fleeing Felons, FNS received several questions regarding its implementation. FNS released a Q&A in response to those questions on March 8, 2016. Since that time, FNS has received additional questions and therefore, issued this second Q&A to address them.

11/18/2016
Page updated: October 14, 2021