In addition to provisions in the law, USDA encouraged states to use existing program flexibility to improve access to SNAP, such as by using online or telephone SNAP applications if they weren’t already, or allowing participants to stay on SNAP without reapplying for the maximum amount of time allowed under program rules. Also, Families First temporarily suspended, nationwide, SNAP’s three-month time limit on benefits for unemployed adults under age 50 without children in their home. Many of those temporary changes were extended by subsequent legislation and administrative action. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act of March 2020 gave the Agriculture Department (USDA) authority to let states temporarily modify procedures to make it easier for families to continue participating in or apply for SNAP. SNAP is essential to helping these families put food on the table. Data have shown a substantial number of families have reported difficulties affording adequate food and other basic needs at some point during the pandemic. The far-reaching health and economic effects of COVID-19 and widespread business closures to limit its spread made it even more difficult for many low-income households to afford food and other needs. SNAP has special rules and resources following natural disasters. Notes: Sometimes states use a different name for SNAP, like the Food Stamp Program, CalFresh, or food benefits.
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