Shutdown Creates New Deadline For SNAP Customers

The federal government shutdown has created a new deadline for those who depend on SNAP benefits.

According to the Department of Human Services, individuals who are renewing their benefits or filing a 6 month Simplified Report form need to have any required paperwork in by the end of business Monday, January 14th.

“We realize this deadline to submit paperwork requires a tight turnaround, but it’s very important that we work together to ensure everyone who qualifies for February SNAP benefits receives them,” TDHS Press Secretary Sky Arnold said. “To help, we are keeping the largest offices open two hours later on Monday and we are encouraging those who can to upload their paperwork online.”

February SNAP funds were made available earlier this week when the USDA provided states with the option to provide early issuance of benefits. Because of this, February SNAP benefits will arrive weeks early for most people.

“We can’t stress enough how important it is for those who depend on snap to budget these early February benefits, especially those who are accustomed to receiving funds towards the middle or the end of the month,” Arnold said. “We don’t know when the shutdown will end and even if the shutdown ends in February, March benefits would be loaded on the usual date. That means customers could go as long as two months between SNAP dispersals.”

Individuals can submit paperwork online at any time or by visiting https://apps.tn.gov/dhsaccess/.

Individuals who are not renewing and have not been notified by the department are not required to submit an additional documents.