FNS Documents & Resources

Several state agencies have recently asked FNS to approve increases in their Standard Utility Allowances (SUA’s) for heating and cooling based on projections of substantial price increases in energy sources – particularly natural gas. We are aware of broad interest in the issue of the impact of higher energy prices on household budgets and appreciate the conferences and correspondence that bring this issue to our attention.

This memorandum provides guidance to state administrators in making household eligibility determinations in all nutrition assistance programs administered by FNS.

Included in the Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2001 is a provision requiring the Department of Defense to pay certain service members and their families a Family Subsistence Supplemental Allowance so they will not have to rely on food stamps to make ends meet.