Missouri food stamp benefits to increase beginning in October
Families receiving food stamps benefits will see a significant and permanent increase beginning Oct. 1.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will increase by some 25% over pre-pandemic levels. A family of four in Missouri that has been eligible for $785 a month during the pandemic will see that amount rise to $835.
URGENT: Apply for one-time summer pandemic-EBT card benefit; deadline Oct. 10; Learn more:
Food Stamp (SNAP) benefit info:
Can you qualify for food stamps?
For area food resources info:
Go to: kclinc.org/food-resources
The increase — approved by the federal government earlier in August — is the largest single boost in the program’s history.
The permanent changes will be important information for families that have been adapting to the rapidly changing circumstances through the pandemic.
* Includes the 15% temporary pandemic increase
“There have been numerous changes to SNAP benefits over the last 18 months that has made budgeting more difficult for Missouri families,” said Jennifer Tidball, acting director of the Missouri Department of Social Services.
“This timely and permanent increase to regular SNAP means Missouri families will know exactly how much they have to spend on grocery purchases.”
It is also important to consider that many households that previously have not been receiving food stamp assistance may have come under financial strain during the pandemic and can qualify for SNAP.
Missourians can apply for SNAP benefits 24/7 online by visiting MyDSS.mo.gov, or sending completed applications and verification documents by email to FSD.Documents@dss.mo.gov, or by fax to 573-526-9400.
The Missouri Services Navigator has information on over 2,800 programs and services available in the state. Missourians in need of information on SNAP, Medicaid, Child Care Subsidy, LIHEAP, or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefit programs can visit dss.mo.gov. Missourians who have questions not specific to an individual’s case can use the DSS Virtual Assistant to get immediate answers to basic questions 24 hours a day. Phone assistance is also available Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. call 855-FSD-INFO or 855-373-4636.