Basic Food Updates

Check here for the latest information and updates on Basic Food benefits (SNAP/EBT) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Information will be added to this page as it becomes available.

Last updated 5/7/2021

Benefit Changes

Effective May 1, 2021, households approved for Basic Food but receiving a regular benefit amount of $0 are NOT considered participating SNAP households for emergency allotments, meaning their regular monthly benefit will return to $0. Read more here.
All households received the maximum food benefit amount for their household size March 2020 – April 2021, and households approved for regular benefits greater than $0 will receive the maximum benefit for the month of May.
All households have been approved to receive a temporary 15% benefit increase on top of the maximum benefit amount through October 2021. This increase will be automatically added to your card.

Service Updates

A new option allows customers to email verification documents using the MyDocs Attachment service by creating a Secure Email Portal account. Call the customer service contact center to initiate email service: 1-877-501-2233.
Food/Cash reviews due in January or February have been granted a 4 month extension.
Mid-certification Reviews are waived from November to June 2021.
New or replacement EBT cards will be issued by mail. Only clients with a General Delivery mailing address will be issued an EBT card at the Community Service Office.
New Customer Connect Interactive Voice Response System allows clients to choose self-service or assisted service when calling DSHS. Self-service options are available 24/7 and allows customers to:
- Verify case status, including benefit amounts, next benefit payment, benefit balances, and next review due date.
- Confirm if documents have been received and processed.
- Check appointment dates and times.
- Learn the answers to many frequently asked questions.
- Decide between self-service and speaking with an agent after hearing wait times during business hours.
- Request a call back.

Pandemic-EBT (P-EBT)

Find the latest from DSHS here
The P-EBT program has received approval for the 2020-21 school year. More information will be coming soon directly from your student’s school
All students enrolled in free/reduced school meals will automatically receive P-EBT, regardless of whether they receive EBT benefits.
- You must have filled out an application for free/reduced meals in 2020 or 2021, except in situations where the school provides free meals to all students
- P-EBT cards will be automatically issued and mailed to the mailing address your school has on record. If your address has changed, make sure your school has your correct address.

Expanded Eligibility for Students

Student Eligibility for Basic Food Guide
Students who were previously ineligible for food assistance due to student requirements may now be eligible. Schools will be providing direct outreach to students.
Students who are eligible to participate in work study may now be eligible for Basic Food benefits. There is no requirement to participate in a work study program, just to demonstrate eligibility for the program.
Exemptions will continue until 30 days after the COVID-19 public health emergency is lifted