Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The United State Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Services (USDA-FNS) updated guidance on November 13, directing states to issue full November SNAP benefits now that the federal government shutdown has ended. The November SNAP benefits file has been processed by DSS’ EBT vendor, and households currently active will receive benefits according to their standard issuance dates. DSS continues to oversee timely distribution to support Missourians and encourages recipients to monitor their balance by logging into their online ebtEDGE account or calling the number on the back of their card. DSS remains committed to ensuring families have access to the assistance they need during this time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will I receive my SNAP benefits in November?
The United State Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Services (USDA-FNS) updated guidance on November 13, directing states to issue full November SNAP benefits now that the federal government shutdown has ended. The November SNAP benefits file has been processed by DSS’ EBT vendor, and households currently active will receive benefits according to their standard issuance dates. DSS continues to oversee timely distribution to support Missourians and remains committed to ensuring families have access to the assistance they need during this time.
Participants can check their balance by calling the toll-free number listed on the back of their EBT card, visiting ebtedge.com, or using the ebtEDGE mobile app. The app is available for Android and Apple devices. To increase security on the app, you will need to input a One Time PIN (sent to you by email or text) to access the app.
- Can I still use leftover benefits from previous months in November?
At this time any benefits currently left on your EBT card from previous months can be used.
- Will my cash assistance/TANF EBT card stop working as well?
This will have no effect to TANF households at this time. These benefits will be normal with no lapse.
- Can I still apply for SNAP and other programs during the government shutdown?
Yes, you can apply for any services we provide. The Family Support Division will take your applications and process your applications as normal.
If you are approved for SNAP benefits in November, no benefit can be provided until the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) allows benefits to be released.
- If I am repaying some of my SNAP benefits back to FSD out of my monthly SNAP allotment, will they take that amount still?
Yes, the amount that is being recouped from your monthly SNAP allotment will still be taken out once the federal government releases funding for SNAP benefits.
- How is Missouri Medicaid, or MO HealthNet affected by the federal government shutdown?
The current federal government shutdown only affects the subsidies for health insurance purchased through the Market Place. MO HealthNet continues to be fully funded and benefits will not be closed or adjusted due the shutdown.
- How are MO HealthNet annual eligibility reviews changing?
Annual eligibility reviews continue to take place and need to be addressed by the recipient or their authorized representative as soon as they are received. Annual renewals are not changing as a result of the federal government shutdown.