MEDIA ALERT
For Immediate Release
March 26, 2020
Changes to Food Stamp Benefits in Response to COVID-19
To meet the nutritional needs of low-income Missourians during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Social Services Family Support Division has announced an extension of the Food Stamp/SNAP certification period by six months for re-certifications coming due in March, April and May. This ensures that benefits will not end during the COVID-19 pandemic. DSS is also currently waiving all work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents through the end of the federal emergency declaration.
As part of the Families First Act, the state will issue Pandemic Food Stamp/SNAP benefits. This means that all households currently eligible for SNAP will receive the maximum amount per household size. This P-SNAP benefit increase will automatically be added on the normal dates the recipient receives their SNAP benefit for the month of April.
In addition to P-SNAP, families with children who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch in all Missouri school districts that close at least five consecutive days will get a Pandemic EBT card benefit for March, April and May. This benefit will automatically be added to the Food Stamp/SNAP recipient’s EBT card.
Any low-income individual or family who are now in need of Food Stamps or other benefits, can apply for services online by visiting MyDSS.mo.gov, or apply over the phone at 1-855-373-4636.
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The Missouri Job Center is an equal opportunity program. Auxiliary aids and services available on request to individuals with disabilities. MO TTY users can call 800-735-2966 or contact MO Relay at 711.