The Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) is set to resume mandatory interviews for the Food Stamp program, also known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), effective July 1st. This decision comes after the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) did not approve Missouri’s request to extend the waiver on interview requirements, which were temporarily suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the safety and convenience of Missouri residents, these interviews will be conducted exclusively by telephone in July. A crucial update for applicants and those undergoing recertification is the launch of a new, dedicated Food Stamp Interview Number: 1-855-823-4908.
Why are Food Stamp Interviews Restarting?
The USDA previously granted waivers allowing Missouri to temporarily halt mandatory interviews for SNAP benefits during the COVID-19 emergency. However, with the USDA not approving the extension of these waivers, Missouri is obligated to reinstate the interview requirement to ensure ongoing eligibility and application processing for SNAP benefits. According to Jennifer Tidball, Acting Director of the Department of Social Services, “It is vital for Missourians applying for SNAP benefits or those due for SNAP recertification to participate in the interview process to get or continue to get a SNAP benefit.” Non-compliance with the interview requirement can lead to application denial or termination of existing SNAP benefits. As of May 31, 2020, Missouri provides SNAP benefits to 367,610 households.
Dedicated Food Stamp Interview Number Launched
To streamline the interview process and better assist Missourians, the Family Support Division (FSD) has introduced a new, dedicated phone line specifically for food stamp interviews. Starting July 1st, individuals who have missed a call from FSD regarding their interview or need to proactively call to schedule or conduct their interview can use the new food stamp interview number: 1-855-823-4908. This dedicated line aims to reduce wait times for those specifically needing to complete their SNAP interviews, separating these calls from general inquiries handled by the standard FSD information line.
It is important to note that for the month of July, all SNAP interviews will be conducted via telephone. Once an application or recertification is submitted, applicants should expect a call from the Family Support Division to conduct the mandatory interview. For those needing to call in, the new food stamp interview number is the primary contact point.
Preparing for Your Food Stamp Interview
To ensure a smooth and efficient interview process, applicants and recipients in Missouri should be prepared to:
- Answer calls from an unknown number, as the Family Support Division will be initiating calls for interviews.
- Have your case information or application details readily available when you receive the call or when you call the food stamp interview number.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your household income, expenses, and circumstances to determine SNAP eligibility.
- Understand that participation in the interview is crucial for receiving or continuing to receive SNAP benefits.
Additional Resources and Support
Beyond the new food stamp interview number, Missouri residents have access to various resources for SNAP and other assistance programs:
- DSS Virtual Assistant: For quick answers to general questions about DSS services, the virtual assistant is available 24/7 at DSS Virtual Assistant.
- General DSS Helpline: For other inquiries not related to the food stamp interview, Missourians can call 855-FSD-INFO or 855-373-4636, Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Saturdays starting July 11th, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Note: State offices are closed July 3-4).
- Missouri Services Navigator: This online tool (Missouri Services Navigator) provides information on over 2,800 programs and services available in Missouri.
- Online Application and Information: For online applications and detailed information on Food Stamps, Medicaid, Child Care Subsidy, LIHEAP, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefit programs, visit dss.mo.gov. Applications can be submitted 24/7 at MyDSS.mo.gov.
- Document Submission: Completed applications and verification documents can be submitted via email to [email protected] or fax to 573-526-9400.
- Employment and Training Programs: SkillUp (SkillUp) and Missouri Work Assistance (MWA) (Missouri Work Assistance (MWA)) offer free career planning and job assistance to SNAP recipients.
- COVID-19 Response Information: For updates on the Department’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, visit https://dss.mo.gov/covid-19.
Stay Informed and Participate in Your Interview
The resumption of food stamp interviews is a necessary step to ensure the integrity and proper functioning of the SNAP program in Missouri. Missourians applying for or recertifying for SNAP benefits are urged to participate in the interview process. Utilizing the new food stamp interview number, 1-855-823-4908, and preparing for the interview will help ensure continued access to vital food assistance during this time. The Missouri Department of Social Services remains committed to supporting Missourians and ensuring access to essential services. For further information about the Department of Social Services, visit dss.mo.gov and follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
