OKDHS works to get SNAP households benefits by January 20th
We know that many organizations and their clients are concerned about the effect of the government shutdown on SNAP benefits. USDA recently released an advisory allowing states to distribute February SNAP benefits by January 20th in order to ensure that SNAP households received their benefits if the shutdown continues into February. OKDHS has confirmed that they are working diligently to ensure that all eligible SNAP households will receive their SNAP benefits. Organizations should encourage SNAP clients to be on the lookout for communication from OKDHS – especially if their 6 month reporting or certification is due between now and the end of February. Recertifications and applications coming after January 20th will be processed as normal using contingency funds. Below you will find some tips for talking to clients who might be affected.
Please email richard.comeau@hungerfreeok.org if you have any additional questions or concerns.
Impact of the Federal Government Shutdown on SNAP Benefits: What You Need to Know
If you get SNAP on your EBT card early, you do not need to call OKDHS. If you get SNAP on your EBT card early, you will not get SNAP again in February. Keep this in mind when you are making decisions about buying food. SNAP will stay on your card until you decide to use it!
- The shutdown has no impact on SNAP eligibility rules.
- Retailers will continue to accept SNAP during the shutdown.
- When the shutdown ends, SNAP will go back to normal.