FNS announces the publication of the new Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Guidance on Non-Citizen Eligibility on the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) website. FNS has worked for over a year to update the original 2003 guidance to reflect current policy and make the guidance more user-friendly. The final product is a result of extensive collaborative effort between FNS and Federal partners from the Department of Justice, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Health and Human Services.
Updates include:
A new section highlighting the vulnerable populations who are eligible for SNAP, including eligible non-citizen children, certain elderly, the disabled, Iraqi and Afghan special immigrants, Cuban and Haitian entrants, and eligible individuals and families with a military connection.
A revised section which clarifies that States may only verify the status of those who apply for benefits. This ensures consistent application of SNAP regulations while protecting individual civil and privacy rights.
A revised section on public charge to ensure a clear message that when a non-citizen applies for or receives SNAP, it will not impact their immigration status or ability to become a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen.
FNS is committed to ensuring that all who are eligible for SNAP, especially children, have barrier free access to the program. This updated version will serve as a valuable resource for State agencies, community partners and potential recipients on SNAP eligibility requirements and help improve program access.
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