Department of Social Services
Family Support Division
PO Box 2320
Jefferson City, Missouri
TO: ALL FAMILY SUPPORT OFFICES
FROM: KIM EVANS, DIRECTOR
SUBJECT: COVID-19-APPROVED STATEWIDE FOOD STAMP RE-CERTIFICATION WAIVER
DISCUSSION:
On March 13, 2020 a national health emergency was declared in response to COVID-19. The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has approved a waiver to extend certification periods for all households who are required to re-certify during March, April and May 2020. This waiver will allow temporary changes to the Food Stamp program that will help keep Missourians safe and healthy without fear of losing their Food Stamp benefits during this health crisis.
Extend certification periods for 6 months
To prevent Food Stamp benefits from ending during the COVID-19 health crisis, a 6 month extension will be added to the current 12 month certification period for non-elderly and non-disabled households for the months of March, April and May. A 6 month extension will be added to the current 24 month certification period for elderly and disabled households for the months of March, April and May. The certification period will be extended beyond their currently scheduled expiration date by 6 months.
Example: The Smith family is due to recertify for Food Stamp benefits in April 2020. The eligibility system will use current case information and extend certification to October 2020. The Smith family will continue to receive the same amount of benefits with no benefit interruption.
When processing a Food Stamp application, staff still need to verify all required points of eligibility. Staff need to be flexible with requests for information since resources may be limited and information difficult to obtain from outside sources.
NECESSARY ACTION:
- Review this memorandum with appropriate staff.
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