November SNAP benefits suspended
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Special to the News
The Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) received specific guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) the evening of Friday, October 24, regarding the suspension of SNAP benefits and procedures for the month of November because of the federal government shutdown.
Recipients will be able to use benefits issued to their electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card prior to November 1, at any SNAP authorized retailer.
The guidance states that effective November 1, “FNS is suspending all November 2025 benefit allotments until…federal funding is provided, or until FNS directs state agencies otherwise.”
No new benefits will be issued during the suspension; however, there are no other changes to the program or client requirements.
Individuals can still apply for SNAP benefits during this suspension, and DHR will continue to process applications and determine eligibility, but benefits will not be issued until the suspension is lifted.
Current SNAP recipients must continue to recertify their benefits, report as they normally would and submit all documentation that would normally be required for them to continue in the program.
These steps are of the utmost importance so DHR can submit each recipient’s benefit file as soon as the suspension is lifted; in other words, this will allow recipients to more quickly use their November funds in the grocery stores.
“SNAP benefits are 100% federally funded; therefore U.S.D.A. (FNS) controls the issuance of these benefits on EBT cards. I was pleased to learn that FNS plans to reimburse November administrative costs which will help states financially,” said Alabama DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner. “We know SNAP benefits are vitally important to the more than 750,000 Alabamians who depend on the more than $140 million in support each month. Alabama DHR, along with many others, hopes Congress will come to a quick resolution on the federal government shutdown.”
Clients who need additional food support during this time may reach out to their local Feeding Alabama affiliated food bank, visit feedingalabama.org, or any other food resources available in their local communities. The Alabama Department of Human Resources partners with many of these resources.
The Lake Martin Area United Way is taking steps to prepare for if funding does not come through by the November 1 deadline.
The LMAUW is collecting information on all area food donation and collection sites to share with the public and its 211 call center. Those who know of anything are asked to email director@unitedwaylkaemartin.org to help disseminate the information.
Additionally, 211 has set up a text option for food resources. Individuals can just text ALFOOD to 898211 to receive a link to search for food resources in their area by ZIP code.
Individuals can also call toll free at 1-888-421-1266 for assistance with food or other needs, and 211 is available 24/7/365.
LMAUW is also working with its 26 partner agencies to learn how they can help through their agencies and networks.
If needed, LMAUW’s office will also start collecting food and monetary donations to help support area food pantries starting Monday, November 3, with more details to follow.
LMAUW reports that it has other options available to it, as well, should things continue much past the November 1 deadline.