SNAP temporarily extends eligibility to students

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is temporarily providing additional eligibility options to college students due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

SNAP is a program from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and provides nutrition assistance to individuals and families who are struggling financially. 

Desiree Jones, SNAP state program specialist for the Department of Workforce Services, said the change was signed into law through the Consolidated Appropriations Act in December. 

Students can now qualify if they are in a work-study program or have what the program calls an Expected Family Contribution of $0. 

“Other exemptions allow some college students to be SNAP eligible,” Jones said. “These two items have been added to the list of previous exemptions. Students who would be ineligible may receive SNAP if they meet these new exemptions.”

A student’s EFC is found on a financial aid award letter or a student aid report provided by higher education institutions. 

Jones said the institution of higher education determines whether a student is eligible to participate in a work-study program. 

“Our agency will always encourage anyone in need to apply,” Jones said. “When anyone applies, they go through an interview process to help determine their SNAP benefits level. With this change, we would encourage those previous student applicants who may have received a denial due to student status to reapply.”

Jones said this change will be in effect until 30 days after the COVID-19 federal public health emergency is lifted.

SNAP’s Logan office is located at 180 N. 100 W. and is open to walk-in traffic in addition to offering services online and over the phone. 

Students in Logan can apply to receive SNAP benefits at https://jobs.utah.gov/jsp/officesearch/#/officeId/19#officeDetail.