SNAP Benefits Update – Everything You Need To Know About D – SNAP

While many Americans are familiar with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), fewer know about Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP). Funded by the USDA and administered through the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), D-SNAP provides temporary food assistance to people affected by natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes. In times of crisis, D-SNAP becomes a vital support system, helping families who might not otherwise qualify for regular SNAP benefits.

How D-SNAP Works

D-SNAP is activated when the President declares a major disaster, allowing the FNS to coordinate with state agencies and local organizations to offer food support to those in need. The FNS collaborates with voluntary, tribal, and state organizations to distribute benefits and prevent food insecurity in disaster-affected areas.

For individuals and families who have lost property, income, or food due to power outages or relocation, D-SNAP can provide critical financial assistance to help replace lost resources. Approved applicants receive benefits via an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used to buy eligible food items at authorized retailers.

Who Qualifies

In contrast to regular SNAP, D-SNAP eligibility is based on losses directly tied to a disaster. Americans who may not qualify for regular SNAP benefits could still be eligible for D-SNAP if they experience:

• Loss of income due to the disaster
• Damage to or loss of property, including food spoilage
• Emergency relocation or increased living expenses

While applicants must meet specific financial and residency requirements, the temporary nature of D-SNAP allows a wider range of people to access benefits during recovery periods.

Benefits

Each state has the flexibility to administer D-SNAP based on local needs and conditions. Here’s how D-SNAP has been rolled out in three states affected by Hurricane Helene:

Georgia

Georgia’s D-SNAP program supports residents impacted by Hurricane Helene, offering food assistance across multiple counties. The program operates in phases to streamline applications and distribution:

• Phase 3: Runs from November 7 to November 14, 2024, serving Burke, Columbia, Glascock, and surrounding counties.
• Phase 4: Scheduled for November 18 to November 23, 2024, targeting Appling, Bulloch, Candler, and additional counties.

Eligible applicants receive a one-time payment on an EBT card, usable for purchasing food in authorized stores. This phased approach helps manage demand and provides targeted assistance across the state.

Florida

Florida’s Department of Children and Families (DCF) has implemented D-SNAP in response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, aimed at assisting those in disaster-declared counties who don’t already receive regular SNAP benefits. Eligibility requirements include:

• Residency in a disaster-affected area during the hurricanes
• Disaster-related losses, such as home or food loss, income disruption, or other expenses
• Meeting financial criteria set by the state

To expedite the process, DCF requires pre-registration online or by phone. Applicants complete a phone or in-person interview to finalize their application. Those approved receive EBT cards that can be used to buy SNAP-eligible items, providing short-term support for food needs.

North Carolina

North Carolina’s D-SNAP program, following Hurricane Helene, ran from October 18 to October 24, 2024, and was available to residents of 25 western counties impacted by the hurricane. To qualify, applicants needed to meet these criteria:

• Residency in an affected county
• Proof of identity and disaster-related loss or damage
• Meeting income and resource limits

Once approved, eligible families received EBT cards to buy food for up to nine months. In North Carolina, a family of four could receive around $975, covering short-term food needs as they recover from the storm.

Differences

While regular SNAP benefits are based on monthly income and resources, D-SNAP is designed for emergency situations, with different requirements and shorter-term benefits. Here’s a quick comparison:

How to Apply

In disaster situations, D-SNAP applications usually open shortly after a declaration and run for a limited time. Applicants must:

1. Pre-Register: Many states require pre-registration, often online or by phone.
2. Complete an Interview: This step, either by phone or in person, verifies eligibility.
3. Receive an EBT Card: Approved applicants are issued an EBT card, loaded with benefits for immediate food purchases.

D-SNAP is especially helpful for households that may not qualify for regular SNAP but need temporary assistance due to disaster-related losses. By providing this extra layer of support, the USDA and FNS work to reduce food insecurity and help families get back on their feet after emergencies.

FAQs