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684 Chapter 3:Processes and procedures • Section 3: Issuance of benefits (07/2026) Additionally, if a SNAP cash-out individual receives a check for the value of their SNAP benefit because they are unable to adapt to EBT, direct deposit is not an option. If the individual has a history of theft from their mail or lives in an area that has been identified by branch staff or postal inspectors as high-risk for mail loss, they may receive their benefits redirected to a branch. Issuance date of benefits For all programs except the EA and SNAP programs: • Date an authorized cash payment check on the first day of the payment period, or as soon as possible thereafter. • Mail checks so they can be delivered to the individual on the first day of each month. Exceptions are: • Initial month benefits for new/reopened/restored cases • If the first day of the month falls on Sunday or a holiday, mail the check in time for the individual to receive it on Saturday or the mail day preceding the holiday • Checks redirected to a branch office may be released any time on the workday preceding a weekend or holiday. Benefits issued by EBT should be available on the first day of each month, except for the following: • Initial month benefits for new/reopened/restored • SNAP benefits sent through staggered issuance. SNAP benefits issued by EBT (except SNAP cash-out) are staggered based on the last digit of the head of household’s social security number over the first nine calendar days of the month, except for the following: • The benefits for the initial month of eligibility for a new or re-opened case • The benefits for the seventh month of the certification period for a case in the semi-annual reporting system. • When the head of household does not have an SSN, benefits will be issued on the first of the month. SNAP benefits issued through the SNAP cash-out are available as follows: • Benefits are accessed through an EBT account are available on the first day of the month. • Checks are mailed on the first day of the month. • Direct deposit funds are available on the third working day of the month. For SNAP changes that could not be made in time to adjust the monthly allotment, issue a supplement within 10 days of the date the change was reported. Oregon Administrative Rule(s) 461-165-0100 — Issuance Date of Benefit