Texas has received federal authority to automatically renew Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program eligibility for Texans whose benefits are up for renewal in July and August. In addition, the state is waiving interview requirements for new and existing program participants. The interview waivers will allow for faster eligibility determinations.
“By extending automatic SNAP renewals and temporarily waiting interview requirements, we will ensure more Texans have healthy meals for their families,” said Gov. Greg Abbott
“As we continue to fight against COVID-19, these automatic renewals provide food security and peace of mind to families in need during this unprecedented time,” said Texas Health and Human Services Access and Eligibility Services Deputy Executive Commissioner Wayne Salter. “Waiving interviews also reinforces that it is important to stay home when possible to minimize potential exposure to COVID-19.”
The automatic renewals will extend the SNAP benefits of approximately 276,000 households who have not yet turned in their renewal information for July and August. The extension is the latest change to SNAP since the onset of COVID-19. Other initiatives include the SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot, Pandemic Electronic Benefit Program, and allowing the maximum, allowable amount of SNAP benefits by household size.
SNAP provides food assistance to approximately 1.4 million eligible low-income families and individuals in Texas. Texans in need can apply for benefits at YourTexasBenefits.com.
