Using Data to Build Better Budgets for Your SNAP E&T Program
Developing realistic budgets, rooted in spending and participation trends from recent years, ensures that federal dollars are fully utilized across the program and that states are operating effective programs. State agencies can use these SNAP E&T Planning and Budgeting tools to analyze recent fiscal and program data to inform the development of state E&T budgets.
Annual Analysis Budget Tool
Use this tool to calculate actual versus anticipated budget spending over a three-year period. The tool provides three-year trend analysis across the overall program by federal spending category, components, and providers. This can help flag significant differences between the two and identify areas to explore for improvement.
Real-Time Analysis Budget Tool
Use this tool to check-in on your quarterly spending throughout the year. The tool provides quarterly analysis by federal spending category, components, and providers, to see if participation and spending aligns with the E&T program budget. This can inform ongoing financial monitoring and help states identify needed mid-year course corrections.
Instructions and Reflection Questions
These documents include an introduction to and instructions for using the corresponding workbooks and reflection questions that a state can use to facilitate conversations with state agency partners, intermediaries, and providers.