Starting later this summer, Missouri will take gradual steps and ease Missouri back to its regular SNAP/Food Stamp program operation. The Department of Social Services is sending letters starting in July to SNAP recipients notifying them of the changes.
Looking Back
In March of 2020, Missourians were able to receive the Pandemic Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (P-SNAP) benefit. The benefit maximized the amount based on the size of the household as well as a 15 percent SNAP benefit increase through September.
Upcoming Changes
August will be the last month for P-SNAP benefits (household size benefit). September will be the last month Missourians will get the temporary 15 percent SNAP increase. Regular SNAP benefits will resume on October 1, 2021. The regular SNAP certification process (recertification every 12 to 24 months) will resume on August 1.
Awareness
“It is very important for SNAP recipients to be aware and prepare for the upcoming actions the Department of Social Services will take to help ease Missourians’ transition back to regular SNAP,” said Jennifer Tidball, Acting Director, Department of Social Services. “Hopefully, sharing this information well ahead of the actions will give Missourians time to consider, plan, and budget for the future change in their benefit amount and to know what is required to successfully complete the recertification process.”
How to Apply
Missourians can apply for SNAP benefits 24/7 online by visiting MyDSS.mo.gov, or sending completed applications and verification documents by email to FSD.Documents@dss.mo.gov, or by fax to 573-526-9400.
Thanks for reading,
Cam Corbet is the Marketing and Communications Manager for Northwest Health Services and works with healthcare professionals to provide education on important health issues.