SNAP Eligibility Update!

 SNAP Eligibility Update

 What is happening?

During the COVID-19 public health emergency, a law was passed that made more students temporarily eligible for SNAP. This was because of a law that allowed students with an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of 0 and those who could participate in work-study programs to be eligible without having to actively be working. However, as the COVID-19 public health emergency is ending, these temporary rules will also end in June 2023.

What is work-study or EFC of 0, and how do I know if I have either of those?

Work-study is a federal financial aid fund offered to students to help pay them for jobs on campus. Work-study is often granted based on financial need, determined by the FAFSA application. Students with an EFC of 0 means that their families have a low income and cannot contribute much if any, money to pay for college.

What does this change mean for students?

If you are a student who is currently getting SNAP benefits and you think that you might not be eligible anymore, you will still be able to get benefits until your Redetermination deadline (6 months after you were approved for SNAP). If you are a student who is not currently getting SNAP benefits, but you were hoping to be eligible based on your work-study or an EFC of 0, you can still apply before June 1st. If you are approved, you will receive SNAP benefits for at least six months, regardless of the rule change.

What to do to get support or prevent losing SNAP benefits?

If you have questions about whether you are eligible for SNAP benefits or need help applying for SNAP or other public benefits, you can contact the Student Care Center at 303-615-0006 or [email protected]. It’s important to reach out for support if you need it, so you don’t lose your SNAP benefits.

 

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Oh SNAP! Looking for Food Assistance? We Can Help!

Are you having a difficult time purchasing food? Did you know that you may be eligible for up to $281.00 of free grocery money each month (for a household of one)? Don’t leave free money on the table!

The Student Care Center knows that being a student, especially during these difficult times, can be challenging given the multiple responsibilities we know you carry. Therefore, we have partnered with Hunger Free Colorado to support students in discussing eligibility and applying for food assistance.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, is a federal nutrition program that assists in expanding food budgets, providing sustainable access to healthy food that will support you during your time as a student.

If you are interested in speaking with someone on our team about how to access food assistance please complete a CARE Referral to get connected to a case manager. Someone from our office will reach out to you!

If you have other questions please call 303-615-0006, or email SNAP@msudenver.edu to make an appointment.