FNS Documents & Resources

This memo provides additional guidance to state agencies interested in submitting renewal requests for the indefinite waivers expiring April 30, 2015.

In recent years, FNS has approved several innovative waiver requests that have afforded states new flexibility in administering SNAP. Because these waivers are relatively new, untested, and complex, FNS categorizes them as "novel" waivers.

FNS has recently undertaken a review of its waiver processes and the effectiveness of its approved waivers. Specifically, FNS has recently reviewed the "Early Denial" waiver, also known as "10-Day Denial" waiver, which waives Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) regulations at 7 CFR 273.2(g)(3) and 7 CFR 273.2(h)(2).

FNS is issuing this memorandum to update current waiver procedures and revise previous guidance contained in the Sept. 14, 2004, memo, "Revised Waiver Processing Instructions." FNS is enhancing administrative waiver procedures to streamline current processes and eliminate inconsistencies in approval requirements for similar waivers.

Attached are questions and answers in response to common issues raised by states regarding the Census 2010 Demonstration Projects.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 suspends restrictions on Able Bodied Adults Without Dependent participation in SNAP as of April 1, 2009 continuing through Sept. 30, 2010, unless state agencies choose to impose specific work requirements.

The recently-enacted Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2008 modified the criteria used by the Department of Labor for the extended benefits program for the duration of the legislation. As a result, some states qualify for the EB program based on the recently-revised criteria rather than the traditional criteria.