MEMORANDUM

DISCUSSION:

The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) funds the Family Support Division (FSD) to administer the Food Stamp program in Missouri.  FNS expects FSD to adhere to all federal regulations for the Food Stamp program.  This includes the expectation for FSD to process all applications timely, a minimum of 95% of the time:

• Initial applications must be processed accurately within 30 days of receipt; and
• Expedited applications must be processed accurately within 7 days of receipt; and
• Eligible households must be provided the opportunity to receive benefits no later than 30 calendar days after the date the household received its last allotment (i.e. recertifications); and
• All denials and/or rejections must be made by the 30th day following the application date.

All FSD staff and offices must adhere to these standards to ensure the best customer service and nutritional support for Missourians.  FSD is at risk for losing its administrative funding from FNS if these standards are not achieved and maintained.  Moreover, FSD staff and offices shall inform all customers of the eligibility criteria for expedited Food Stamp benefits and the opportunity to obtain Food Stamp benefits within the seven-day timeframe.

NECESSARY ACTION:

• Review this memorandum with appropriate staff.
• Reference SharePoint for additional support as needed
• Reference Food Stamp Policy Manual as needed
• Reference FSD’s Training Casework Reference Guide as needed

JG/mw