FNS Handbook 901 - Advance Planning Documents

The primary objective of this Handbook is to help state agencies navigate FNS requirements to secure approval, and get the requested funding, for modern eligibility systems and EBT benefit delivery services. The key mechanism for state agencies to obtain approval and funding for projects such as development, transfer, or enhancements to an eligibility or EBT system, is the Advance Planning Document (APD). This redesign of the Handbook doesn’t change the core requirements for the FNS APD process or procurement of systems by state agencies. They’ve just be reorganized and reformatted to be more user friendly. The updated Handbook provides users with updated graphics, better flow, more links, and a modern look and feel. It also includes new tools, like a model Test Plan template, and a model Request for Proposal (RFP) template, among others. FNS programs covered by the Handbook include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), but the new content also helps show how the requirements specific to these programs mirror the system development lifecycle, that applies to any information system project.