MIAMI.- During this week, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will be making a new disbursement of payments to millions of beneficiaries in Florida and several states across the country. The beneficiaries correspond to case files from 75 to 99.
In Florida, payments benefiting approximately 2.85 million residents enrolled in the food stamp program are made from the 1st to the 28th of each month.
In the month of April, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) assigned digits 9 and 8 to case numbers. Therefore, the planned schedule for this week is as follows:
- 75-78, benefits available on the 22nd
- 79-81, benefits available on the 23rd
- 82-85 benefits available on the 24th
- 86-88 benefits available on the 25th
- 89-92 benefits available on the 26th
- 93-95 benefits available on the 27th
- 96-99 benefits available on the 28th
People who benefit from this program have the possibility of making purchases in supermarkets to purchase foods such as fruits, vegetables, various meats, cereals, seeds and other food-related products. However, it is not allowed to purchase tobacco, alcoholic beverages, cleaning or hygiene products, pet food or medicines.
The money deposited for the purchase of food depends on the number of people in the registered household. The deposit is monthly and is distributed as follows: For 1 person in the household: $291 per month. 2 people: $535 per month. 3 people: 766 dollars per month. 4 people: 973 dollars per month. 5 people: $1,155 per month.
Cases of emergency
Following the storms and tornadoes that hit the coastal regions of Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida in early April, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has been instrumental in the recovery of affected families.
The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) implemented measures to provide additional benefits to SNAP qualifiers who suffered losses during natural disasters.
More than 190,000 people were affected by power outages in Louisiana, and those who lost food due to these adverse conditions can apply for a temporary increase in food stamps.
To apply for these additional benefits, those affected have two options: download SNAP Form 38 and mail it to DCFS offices, or go in person to the nearest department office to complete the form.
In said document, applicants must detail the reasons for the loss of food, whether due to power outages, floods or other adverse events. It is essential to note that interested parties must submit their application within ten days of the event that caused the loss of food.
Additionally, during natural disasters, DCFS collects information about areas affected by power outages to determine who is eligible for temporary benefit increases.
Income criteria
SNAP is administered by the Office of Economic Self-Sufficiency (ESS) of the Florida Department of Children and Families, with the primary goal of providing food support to low-income individuals, individuals with disabilities, and families with limited resources.
To be eligible to receive SNAP benefits in Florida, federal rules are followed, although states have the flexibility to tailor certain aspects of the program based on individual needs.
The household’s gross monthly income, which includes all income before any deductions, generally should not exceed 130 percent of the federal poverty line. For example, for a family of three in federal fiscal year 2023, the poverty line was $1,920 per month, meaning 130 percent of this figure equals $2,495 per month.
To apply for SNAP benefits in Florida, you must complete an application through the ACCESS Florida system. This involves submitting documentation of income, social security number, rent/utility bills, and asset information.
It is important to be informed about possible changes in eligibility requirements due to adjustments to the Federal Poverty Level and take advantage of available resources for SNAP enrollment and assistance.
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Source: Usa.gov, RRP, La Mañana, Capital Al Día
