The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), often referred to as food stamps, is a federal program designed to combat food insecurity by providing low-income individuals and families with financial assistance to purchase groceries. A common question among SNAP recipients, especially those who travel or relocate, is: “Can You Use Food Stamps In Another State?” This article provides a detailed answer to this question, covering various scenarios and important considerations.
Using Your Lone Star Card Across State Lines
Generally, yes, you can use your SNAP benefits in another state. SNAP benefits are designed to be used nationwide, allowing recipients to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers across state lines. This is particularly helpful for individuals who travel, move temporarily, or live near state borders.
The Texas program uses the “Lone Star Card.” Texans who leave the state can use the Lone Star Card to access both SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) benefits at retailers in other states. Similarly, people from other states may use their EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) cards to access SNAP and TANF benefits at retailers in Texas.
TANF Benefits and Out-of-State Usage
In Texas, individuals receiving TANF benefits through the Lone Star Card can also access these benefits at retailers in other states. This ensures that families moving or traveling can still access necessary cash assistance.
If you encounter issues using your EBT card in another state, contact the help desk of the state that issued the card for assistance. In Texas, this is the Lone Star Help Desk at 1-800-777-7EBT (1-800-777-7328).
Temporary Absence vs. Permanent Move
When a household receiving SNAP or TANF reports a move or temporary absence from Texas, it’s essential to determine whether the move is temporary or permanent. Follow the guidelines outlined in sections A-740 (Moves Out of Texas) and A-750 (Temporary Visits Out of Texas) of the Texas Works Handbook. This determination affects the continued eligibility for benefits.
Actions to Take Before Leaving Texas
If you are moving out of Texas, even temporarily, take the following steps:
- Withdraw Cash Benefits: If you have TANF benefits, withdraw any remaining amount from your cash account before leaving to avoid potential issues accessing cash benefits out of state.
- Keep Your Lone Star Card: Always carry your Lone Star Card with you.
- Using Cash Benefits: If you have cash benefits that were not accessible before the move, try using your card at stores that accept EBT in other states. Be aware of potential fees for cash withdrawals and verify these fees before completing the transaction.
- Contact the Lone Star Help Desk: If your card doesn’t work out of state, call the Lone Star Help Desk for assistance in finding retailers that accept the Lone Star Card. In some cases, if you moved after the first of the month but before accessing that month’s TANF benefits, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) may mail a benefit conversion warrant to your new address.
Households Shopping Primarily Out of State
While using your Lone Star Card out of state is generally permitted, consistently shopping out of state without shopping in Texas may raise questions about your residency. To maintain eligibility, ensure compliance with Texas residency requirements, as outlined in sections A-740 and A-750 of the Texas Works Handbook.
Out-of-State Shopping (OSS) Reports
The State of Texas generates monthly reports that track Lone Star Card usage in other states. These reports are divided into:
- Non-Border OSS Report: Lists households using their Lone Star Card in states that do not border Texas.
- Border OSS Report: Lists households using their Lone Star Card in states that do border Texas (Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and New Mexico).
Advisor Actions Based on OSS Reports
If a household appears on the Non-Border OSS Report, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) may request verification of the household’s address. Failure to provide this verification can result in denial of SNAP and associated TANF/Medical Program benefits.
The Border OSS Report is typically reviewed only during complete actions, such as application or redetermination, to assess the legitimacy of the household’s address.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Lone Star Card Out of State
If your Lone Star Card is lost or stolen while you are out of state, immediately contact the Lone Star Help Desk at 1-800-777-7EBT (1-800-777-7328) for assistance. They can guide you through the process of requesting a replacement card.
Conclusion
Understanding the rules and regulations surrounding the use of SNAP benefits across state lines is crucial for recipients who travel or relocate. By following the guidelines outlined in this article and maintaining open communication with the Lone Star Help Desk, you can ensure continued access to essential food assistance, regardless of your location. Remember to keep your card safe, report any issues promptly, and comply with residency requirements to maintain your eligibility for SNAP and TANF benefits.
