Page 1

SNAP 0-3 Introduction

Supersedes: SNAP 0-3 (04/01/19) PURPOSE & SCOPE The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) formerly known as the Food Stamp Program was established to aid in ending hunger and improve nutrition and health. SNAP benefits assist low-income households in purchasing the food they need for a nutritionally adequate diet and provides crucial support to needy households. Congress passed the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to provide eligible households an opportunity to obtain a more nutritious diet by supplementing their food budget. SNAP enables eligible households to purchase food with the use of SNAP benefits issued each month in their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) account. The amount of the allotment a household receives is determined by income, allowable expenses, and the household size. Participating households may purchase food with their Montana Access (EBT) card at retail food stores authorized to accept them by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). Only eligible foods or food products intended for home consumption and seeds and plants for a home garden may be purchased with SNAP benefits. Alcoholic beverages, household products, cigarettes, hot foods ready to eat, and pet food cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. A limited number of participants who meet specific eligibility and residence criteria may use their SNAP benefits to buy prepared meals e.g., authorized meal delivery service, authorized communal dining facility for elderly or SSI households, etc. ADMINISTRATION RESPONSIBILITIES SNAP is administered by cooperation between Federal and State governments. The State of Montana is responsible for the certification of applicants and issuance of benefits. This is accomplished cooperatively through the Offices of Public Assistance (OPA) providing the daily client contact under the rules disseminated by the State. The Federal government provides guidelines for State operations and is