The purpose of this memorandum is to provide additional information on the 5-year review cycle provision of the Child Nutrition Program Integrity final rule. This memorandum relates to program-specific changes in the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.
Congress passed a law in late 2022 to help SNAP participants who are victims of card skimming, cloning and other similar methods. To implement this new law, states are worked quickly to develop and implement processes to help people whose SNAP benefits were stolen seek and obtain relief. FNA lists approved state plans on this page. Congressional authority to replace stolen benefits expired on December 20, 2024.
We are working closely with our state and federal partners, SNAP retailers, EBT processors, and other industry experts to protect SNAP benefits and combat SNAP fraud.
FNA does not tolerate fraud, waste, or abuse in any of its programs, including among retailers that participate in SNAP. FNA monitors SNAP-authorized retailers and transaction data and investigates potential concerns as illustrated in this SNAP infographic highlighting retailer oversight.
Infographic explaining improper payments in the SNAP program.
Attached to this memorandum, please find a revised edition of the Prototype Application for Free and Reduced Price School Meals, with an accompanying instructions document. These materials may be adapted for direct use by state and local agencies, or as a reference for designing an effective application packet that meets all statutory and regulatory requirements.
USDA is aware of increased reports of EBT theft due to card skimming, cloning, and similar fraudulent methods. The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 includes provisions for the replacement of stolen EBT benefits with federal funds.