We urge each third party processor to take proactive steps that support SNAP integrity and protect taxpayer dollars.

This notice informs the public of the annual adjustments to the levels of monthly benefits in the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer for Children (Summer EBT) Program. These adjustments reflect changes in the Thrifty Food Plan, as required under the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act.

This question and answer document provides technical assistance on issues directly related to SNAP EBT processors – and those working with such processors – on implementing Summer EBT.

Electronic Benefits Transfer is an electronic system that allows a SNAP participant to pay for food using SNAP benefits. When a participant shops at a SNAP authorized retail store, their SNAP EBT account is debited to reimburse the store for food that was purchased. EBT is in use in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Guam.

We have created this document to help farmers markets complete the process of applying to become authorized to participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The information presented here is intended to educate state agencies about how they can make it more affordable for farmers markets to adopt EBT technology.