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ESA SNAP Policy Manual 1 Chapter 1 Chapter 1. General Information 1.1 General Purpose The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is federally funded and administered under the provisions in the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (as amended). The SNAP rules are set forth in Title 7, Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 271 through 284. SNAP is administered by the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). SNAP is intended to promote general welfare and protect the health and well-being of the nation’s people by increasing nutrition levels in low-income households. The District of Columbia (“District” or “DC”) Department of Human Services’ (“DHS” or “the Department”) Economic Security Administration (ESA) SNAP Policy Manual is the primary resource used by social service representatives (SSRs) to obtain guidance on determining eligibility and the amount of SNAP benefits for which individuals may potentially be eligible. The manual is designed to provide the policy guidance necessary to make correct eligibility decisions but may not include specific guidance for every possible situation. Additional questions and guidance may be obtained by contacting ESA’s Division of Policy, Training and Quality Assurance’s (DPT&QA) Policy Office at ESAPolicy@dc.gov. To participate and be determined eligible for SNAP, individuals and families must:  Apply for benefits, including being screened for expedited service.  Provide proof of identity.  Provide Social Security numbers (SSNs).  Meet citizenship or noncitizenship requirements.  Reside in the District of Columbia.  Provide all information necessary to determine eligibility.  Provide verification when requested.  Meet appropriate income and asset limits, unless categorically eligible (see Chapter 4, Categorically Eligible Households).  Be registered for work and meet work requirements if applicable. Return