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Title 7: SNAP Page 38 Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Employees’ Manual Chapter A: Administration Participant Use of Benefits Revised June 20, 2025 Penalties for Misusing SNAP Penalties for Misusing SNAP Legal reference: 7 CFR 271.5(a), (b) and (c); Sections 15(b) and (c) of the Food and Nutrition Act Pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Food and Nutrition Act, the value of benefits provided through SNAP are an obligation of the United States within the meaning of 18 United States Code (USC) 8. The provisions of Title 18 of the United States Code, “Crimes and Criminal Procedure,” relative to counterfeiting, misuse and alteration of obligation of the United States are applicable to EBT. Per federal law, any unauthorized issuance, redemption, use, transfer, acquisition, alteration, possession, or presentation of coupons or authorizations to purchase food may subject any individual, partnership, corporation, or other legal entity to prosecution under Sections 15(b) and (c) of the Food and Nutrition Act or under any other applicable federal, state, or local law, regulation or ordinance. People found guilty of an offense may be subject to fines and/or imprisonment. In addition to fines and imprisonment, the court may suspend any persons convicted of a felony or misdemeanor violation under either section from participation in SNAP for an additional period of up to 18 months. Handling Complaints of Trafficking Under federal law, trafficking is the buying, stealing, or selling of EBT cards. This includes trading benefits for firearms, ammunition, explosives, controlled substances, or anything other than eligible food. If you receive a complaint regarding selling, buying, or trading of EBT cards, refer the complaint to DIAL using form 470-5130, DHS Investigative Referral to DIA Participants In Drug and Alcohol Treatment Centers, Battered Women and Children Shelters, Homeless Shelters, or Group Living Arrangements Legal reference: 7 CFR 273.11(e)(f)(g)(h) People residing in the following types of centers may be eligible for SNAP:  An approved drug or alcohol treatment program, and their children.  An approved shelter for battered women and children.  A public or private non-profit shelters for homeless persons.