Boston — Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that approximately 200,000 Massachusetts households who participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly and commonly known as the Food Stamp Program, provides food-purchasing assistance for low- and no-income people living in the United States. It is a federal aid program, administered by the United States Department of Agriculture, und…
What does the increase in SNAP benefits mean for Massachusetts?
The 15% increase in SNAP benefits is estimated to bring over $30 million per month of additional funds into our state and local economies. SNAP helps one in eight Massachusetts residents to buy food, helping households with limited or strained resources keep food on the table while meeting other basic needs.
What is snap and how can it help me?
SNAP is the first line of defense against hunger and the increase to these benefits will be a vital support for many low-income Massachusetts families and the communities in which they live and work.
Are there any changes to the March SNAP benefits?
The only change is that March SNAP benefits are being issued between March 1 – March 4 for most clients. SNAP rules and eligibility have not changed. If you are facing immediate hunger contact the FoodSource Hotline at (800) 645-8333, where you can find information on food pantries and local programs where you can get access to free food. Q.
Does my household get the maximum amount of extra snap?
My household does not get the maximum amount for our household size, but we have received less than $95 a month in extra SNAP each month: you will get a total of $95 a month in extra emergency SNAP payments. For example, if you previously received $75 in extra SNAP you will now get $95.
When are emergency snap payments available?
The extra emergency SNAP payments are issued in response to COVID-19, and are available in the beginning of the month. In order to receive this additional benefit, you must have been actively receiving DTA benefits in the month before. Example: to receive the May benefit, you must have been receiving benefits in April.
How much does Brenda Lee get on Snap?
Example 1: Brenda-Lee is a household of 1 and gets $144 a month in regular SNAP. The maximum monthly amount for a household of 1 is $234. $234 - $144 = $90. Brenda-Lee will receive $95 in extra SNAP. Example 2: Dan lives in a SNAP household of 3 and gets $616 a month in regular SNAP.
Do temporary benefits continue?
These temporary benefits will continue as long as there is a state and federal emergency declaration. You will still receive your normal benefit amount on your normal issuance day. You will also receive the difference between what your normal issuance amount is and the maximum amount for your household size.
Is there an extension for Snap?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, SNAP recertifications were previously extended for some households. Currently, there are no extensions to recertification periods. DTA will notify you if you have a SNAP interim report or recertification that must be completed to continue receiving benefits.
Where can I use my snap benefits?
You can use your SNAP benefits at any retailer that regularly accepts SNAP benefits. You can do this for the entire month of February. Once your February SNAP benefit is on your card. It will stay on your card until you use it. This is true of all SNAP benefits.
What happens if I don't get my snap benefits?
If you are eligible and are approved or recertified for SNAP benefits later in March, you will get them at a later date. SNAP rules and eligibility have not changed.
How to contact DTA about snap benefits?
If you have a question about SNAP benefits, you can contact the DTA Assistance Line at (877) 382-2363. You can also contact the FoodSource Hotline at (800) 645-8333 where you can find information on food pantries and local programs where you can get access to free food. Q.
What happened to snap benefits in February?
Because of special circumstances due to the partial federal government shutdown, SNAP benefits for February were issued early and were made available between January 17 and January 20 for the majority of SNAP clients.
When will snap benefits be issued?
March SNAP benefits will be issued between March 1 – March 4 for most active SNAP clients. These are regular March SNAP benefits. The only change is that March SNAP benefits are being issued between March 1 – March 4 for most clients . SNAP rules and eligibility have not changed.
When will EBT cards be accepted?
We urge you to plan your spending carefully. EBT cards will continue to be accepted at approved locations during the entire month of February.
