New SNAP EBT Retailer Certification Rules in Illinois: What Store Owners Need to Know in 2026

If you own a convenience store, liquor store, gas station, grocery store, or small market in Illinois and accept SNAP EBT benefits, major federal rule changes could affect your business.

The USDA is proposing stricter SNAP retailer certification requirements that may make it harder for some Illinois stores to qualify or stay authorized to accept EBT payments. While these rules are federal and apply nationwide, Illinois retailers — especially in Chicago and other urban areas — may face increased compliance scrutiny.

Here’s what Illinois SNAP retailers need to know about the proposed USDA changes and how to prepare.

What Is SNAP Retailer Certification?

SNAP retailer certification is the approval process that allows stores to accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits through EBT transactions.

The program is managed federally by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). Retailers must meet inventory, compliance, and anti-fraud requirements to receive and maintain authorization.

Businesses commonly affected include:

• Convenience stores
• Gas stations
• Small grocery stores
• Liquor stores with grocery sections
• Neighborhood markets
• Specialty food retailers

USDA Proposes Tougher SNAP Stocking Requirements

One of the biggest proposed changes involves stricter inventory standards for SNAP-authorized retailers.

Currently, many stores qualify by carrying:

• 3 varieties of staple foods in each required category

Under the proposed rules, retailers may need:

• 7 varieties of staple foods in each category
• Perishable foods in at least 3 categories
• Multiple stocking units of each qualifying item

The four required staple food categories include:

1. Fruits and vegetables
2. Dairy products
3. Meat, poultry, or fish
4. Bread, cereals, or grains

This change could significantly impact Illinois convenience stores and smaller retailers with limited shelf space.

Why the USDA Is Tightening SNAP Rules

According to USDA statements, the new rules are intended to:

• Reduce SNAP trafficking fraud
• Eliminate sham retailers
• Improve access to healthier food options
• Increase program integrity

Federal regulators are also targeting stores that rely heavily on snack foods or processed items to qualify for SNAP authorization.

Foods That May No Longer Count Toward SNAP Eligibility

The USDA is proposing stricter definitions of what qualifies as a “staple food.”

Items that may no longer help stores qualify include:

• Candy
• Chips
• Snack cakes
• Desserts
• Certain processed convenience foods

Retailers that previously relied on these products to satisfy inventory requirements may need to restructure their product mix.

Are SNAP Rules Harder in Illinois?

Technically, SNAP retailer rules are federal and apply equally in every state, including Illinois.

However, Illinois retailers may experience tougher practical enforcement because:

• Chicago is a major USDA enforcement market
• Urban stores face higher anti-fraud monitoring
• Illinois has many small retailers heavily dependent on EBT revenue
• High-volume EBT stores are more likely to be audited or investigated

As a result, Illinois SNAP retailers may see:

• More inspections
• Greater scrutiny of inventory records
• Increased requests for invoices and supplier documentation
• More aggressive trafficking investigations

Common Reasons Illinois SNAP Retailers Lose Authorization

Illinois stores can lose SNAP certification for several reasons, including:

SNAP Trafficking Allegations

This includes:

• Exchanging EBT benefits for cash
• Fake transactions
• Repetitive suspicious transactions

Even data-driven allegations without direct evidence can trigger permanent disqualification.

Insufficient Inventory

Stores that fail to maintain required staple foods may lose authorization during inspections.

Inventory Documentation Problems

Retailers should maintain:

• Supplier invoices
• Inventory records
• Purchase receipts
• Distributor documentation

Excessive Manual EBT Transactions

Too many manually entered transactions can raise fraud flags with USDA investigators.

What Illinois Retailers Should Do Now

To prepare for stricter SNAP certification rules, retailers should:

Review Inventory Requirements

Ensure your store carries enough qualifying staple foods in every required category.

Keep Organized Records

Maintain clear:

• invoices
• inventory logs
• distributor records
• EBT transaction documentation

Train Employees

Employees should understand:

• SNAP compliance rules
• prohibited transactions
• EBT handling procedures

Monitor EBT Activity

Watch for:

• unusual spending patterns
• repetitive transaction amounts
• suspicious customer behavior

Prepare for USDA Inspections

USDA inspectors may conduct:

• site visits
• inventory checks
• compliance reviews
• transaction audits

Are the New SNAP Rules Final Yet?

Not yet.

Many of the stricter SNAP retailer requirements are still in the proposed rule stage. However, the USDA has made clear that increased enforcement and tighter standards are a priority.

Illinois SNAP retailers should begin preparing now rather than waiting for final implementation.

Illinois SNAP Retailer Legal Help

Retailers facing:

• SNAP disqualification
• USDA investigations
• trafficking allegations
• civil monetary penalties
• denial of SNAP authorization

may benefit from experienced legal guidance.

Because SNAP violations can threaten a store’s ability to operate, early legal intervention is often critical.

Final Thoughts

The USDA’s proposed SNAP EBT certification changes could create major challenges for Illinois convenience stores, gas stations, liquor stores, and small retailers.

Although the rules are federal, Illinois retailers — particularly in high-volume urban markets — should expect increased enforcement, stricter inventory reviews, and greater anti-fraud scrutiny in 2026 and beyond.

Store owners should act now to improve compliance, strengthen recordkeeping, and prepare for tougher SNAP certification standards.

If your business is facing a USDA SNAP investigation or authorization issue in Illinois, understanding the new rules early can help protect your store and your EBT privileges.

Sales Tax, Fees, and Refund Obligations Under Federal SNAP Regulations

Retailers authorized to accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits must adhere strictly to federal regulations governing the processing of transactions. Failure to comply may result in administrative sanctions, including disqualification, civil monetary penalties, or allegations of trafficking under 7 U.S.C. § 2024.

The following guidance outlines key compliance requirements related to sales tax, fees, and refunds.

Sales Tax Treatment of SNAP Transactions

Under federal law, SNAP benefits may only be used to purchase eligible food items and may not be used to pay for state or local sales taxes.

• Retailers are prohibited from assessing sales tax on items purchased with SNAP benefits.
• In mixed-payment transactions (i.e., SNAP combined with cash, credit, or debit), sales tax may be applied only to items not paid for with SNAP benefits.
• Where a customer uses manufacturer or store-issued coupons, sales tax may be assessed on the portion of the purchase price attributable to the coupon. However, such tax must be paid using a non-SNAP form of payment.

Improper taxation of SNAP purchases may constitute a program violation and expose the retailer to enforcement action.

Prohibition on Use of SNAP Benefits for Fees

SNAP benefits cannot be used to pay for ancillary fees or charges, even where such fees are uniformly imposed on all customers.

Retailers must ensure that all fees are paid באמצעות alternative tender. Prohibited uses of SNAP benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Charges for bags or containers
• Delivery or service fees
• Processing or transaction fees
• Manufacturer-imposed bottle deposits, including those embedded in the shelf price

Limited Exception: Bottle deposit fees mandated by state law may be paid with SNAP benefits.

Retailers should maintain clear point-of-sale procedures to segregate eligible food purchases from non-eligible fees.

Refund Requirements and Trafficking Risk

Federal regulations require that all refunds for SNAP purchases be handled electronically:

• Refunds must be credited directly back to the customer’s SNAP EBT account via the retailer’s point-of-sale (POS) system.
• Cash refunds are strictly prohibited.

Issuing cash or cash equivalents in exchange for SNAP benefits constitutes trafficking, a violation of federal law under 7 U.S.C. § 2024(b). Trafficking violations carry severe penalties, including permanent disqualification from the program and potential criminal liability.

Conclusion

Strict adherence to SNAP transaction rules is not optional—it is a legal obligation. Retailers should implement internal controls, employee training, and POS safeguards to ensure compliance at all times. Even inadvertent violations may trigger significant enforcement consequences.

5 hour Energy Drink Snap violation Attorney

Energy Drinks and EBT (SNAP): What Convenience Stores Need to Know in 2026

For convenience store owners nationwide, understanding SNAP (EBT) eligibility rules for energy drinks is critical—especially if you are facing or trying to avoid a SNAP violation. Misclassifying products can lead to serious penalties, including fines, suspension, or permanent disqualification from the SNAP program.

Are Energy Drinks Eligible for EBT?

Energy drinks may be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits—but only under specific conditions.

The key factor is the product label:

• Eligible: Energy drinks with a “Nutrition Facts” label are considered food/beverage items and are generally allowed under SNAP.
• Not Eligible: Products with a “Supplement Facts” label are classified as dietary supplements and are prohibited for EBT purchases.

Common Compliance Mistakes That Lead to SNAP Violations

Convenience stores often face SNAP violations due to:

• Selling energy shots or drinks labeled as supplements
• Failing to properly distinguish between Nutrition Facts vs. Supplement Facts labels
• Allowing EBT purchases for ineligible “functional” or protein-enhanced beverages
• Not training staff on SNAP-eligible inventory

Even a small number of improper transactions can trigger a USDA investigation or audit.

Examples of SNAP-Eligible Energy Drinks (Generally Allowed)

• Red Bull (with Nutrition Facts label)
• Monster Energy
• Rockstar
• Full Throttle

Examples of Ineligible Products (SNAP Prohibited)

• 5-Hour Energy
• Celsius (many products labeled as supplements)
• Energy shots and powders with “Supplement Facts” labels

2026 State Restrictions on Energy Drinks and SNAP

As of 2026, multiple states are introducing new SNAP restrictions targeting energy drinks, soda, and other “junk food” items.

States considering or implementing restrictions include:

• Arkansas
• Florida
• Georgia
• Iowa
• Louisiana
• Missouri
• Texas
• And others

These changes may override federal labeling rules, meaning that even drinks with a Nutrition Facts label could become ineligible in certain states.

Why This Matters for Convenience Store Owners

If your store accepts EBT, you are responsible for ensuring full SNAP compliance. Violations related to energy drinks are increasingly common due to:

• Changing state laws
• Confusing product classifications
• High-volume transactions in convenience stores

Penalties can include:

• Temporary SNAP suspension
• Permanent disqualification
• Civil monetary penalties

How to Protect Your Store from a SNAP Violation

To reduce risk:

• Conduct a label audit of all energy drinks in your inventory
• Train employees on SNAP-eligible vs. ineligible products
• Monitor updates on state-level SNAP restrictions
• Implement a compliance system at checkout

Facing a SNAP Violation?

If your convenience store has been flagged for EBT or SNAP violations related to energy drinks or ineligible items, it is critical to act quickly. Early intervention can significantly improve your chances of protecting your SNAP authorization.

5 hour Energy Drink Snap violation Attorney

SNAP Benefits changes will increase ineligible Items by Undercover investigators

SNAP Benefits Update: More States Restrict Junk Food Purchases

Four additional U.S. states have received federal approval to limit certain purchases made with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The move expands a growing nationwide effort to restrict what many policymakers describe as “junk food” purchases under the food assistance program.

Why the SNAP Policy Change Matters

Kansas, Ohio, Nevada, and Wyoming have all secured waivers allowing them to restrict specific high-sugar products from being purchased with SNAP benefits. These changes could impact more than 40 million Americans who rely on SNAP for monthly grocery assistance.

SNAP—commonly referred to as food stamps—is funded by the federal government but administered by individual states. While states have flexibility in managing the program, any changes to eligible food purchases must be approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which oversees SNAP nationwide.

What the New SNAP Restrictions Include

The USDA confirmed the latest waivers on March 4, allowing each state to limit different types of sugary products. The restrictions will roll out gradually between 2026 and 2028.

Key changes include:

• Kansas: SNAP benefits will no longer cover candy or soft drinks starting February 15, 2027.

• Ohio: Restrictions on sugar-sweetened beverages will begin October 1, 2026.

• Wyoming: Sweetened carbonated beverages will be prohibited starting February 1, 2027.

• Nevada: Candy and sugar-sweetened beverages will be restricted beginning February 1, 2028.

These rules mainly target foods and drinks high in added sugars. SNAP benefits are distributed through Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which recipients use at approved grocery stores and retailers. Once implemented, the restricted products will no longer be eligible purchases using those cards in the affected states.

Growing List of States Limiting SNAP Food Purchases

With the addition of Kansas, Ohio, Nevada, and Wyoming, 22 states now have approved waivers that limit the purchase of certain foods considered to have little nutritional value.

“Junk food” in this context generally refers to items high in sugar or fat that provide minimal health benefits.

States with approved SNAP food restrictions include:

Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

Most states pursuing these restrictions are Republican-led, though Colorado, Kansas, Hawaii, and Virginia—which are led by Democratic administrations—have also adopted similar waivers.

Debate Over SNAP Junk Food Restrictions

Supporters argue the program should focus on helping families purchase healthier, more nutritious foods.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated in a March 4 press release:

“SNAP exists to nourish vulnerable Americans—not bankroll the products driving our chronic disease crisis. Today, we are putting nutrition back at the center of SNAP and giving millions of families greater access to real food.”

However, critics warn that restricting food choices may not necessarily lead to healthier diets. They also argue the rules could disproportionately affect low-income households, particularly in areas with limited access to fresh groceries.

Health policy expert Kavelle Christie explained:

“The issue isn’t about individuals misusing their benefits, but their limited choices. In many rural areas and food deserts, convenience stores and fast-food chains are often the only available options. For many families, fresh produce and healthy meals are luxuries that are unattainable—not because they don’t want them, but because they are unavailable or too expensive.”

What Happens Next

The newly approved SNAP restrictions will roll out gradually between 2026 and 2028, depending on the state. As more states consider similar waivers, the debate over nutrition policy, food access, and government assistance programs is expected to continue.

Snap Ebt restrictions for Indiana Iowa Nebraska Utah

New SNAP Restrictions Create Challenges for Grocery Stores and Shoppers

Recent changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in five states—including Iowa and Indiana—are reshaping how recipients and retailers navigate grocery shopping. The new rules restrict the purchase of certain foods labeled as unhealthy, with the goal of encouraging better nutrition. While well-intentioned, the policy has sparked widespread criticism over consumer confusion, added financial strain, and operational hurdles for retailers—some of whom are already reporting notable revenue losses.

What are the new SNAP restrictions?

Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia have rolled out new SNAP guidelines that prohibit the purchase of sugary items such as candy and soda, while still allowing some processed foods. These measures are part of a broader federal effort to promote healthier eating among the roughly 42 million Americans who rely on the $100 billion SNAP program. However, inconsistent standards—such as allowing potato chips but disallowing certain granola bars based on technical ingredients—have left shoppers and store employees confused at checkout.

How are retailers affected?

Grocery retailers face significant financial and logistical challenges in complying with the new rules. A national analysis estimates that implementation could cost retailers $1.6 billion upfront, with an additional $759 million in annual expenses. Smaller stores are particularly vulnerable due to limited staffing and technology resources. Retailers also fear losing customers to neighboring states without similar restrictions, further threatening already thin profit margins.

Why are advocates raising concerns?

Anti-hunger advocates argue that the restrictions increase stigma and place additional burdens on SNAP recipients, many of whom already struggle to stretch limited food budgets. With some households averaging just $5 per person per day, healthier food options—often more expensive—may be out of reach. Reduced flexibility and frequent checkout confusion only compound the challenges faced by low-income families.

What does this mean for all consumers?

The impact of the SNAP changes may extend beyond program participants. Retailers facing higher compliance costs may pass those expenses on to shoppers through increased food prices, diminishing purchasing power across the board. As more states consider adopting similar policies later this year, these ripple effects could intensify economic pressure on households nationwide.

Snap Ebt restrictions for Indiana Iowa Nebraska Utah

A Texas “intentional program violation” (IPV) Snap lawyer is usually a benefits-fraud defense lawyer who focuses on accusations that someone intentionally broke the rules of a government benefits program—most commonly SNAP (food stamps), but also sometimes TANF and WIC.

1. What is an “intentional program violation”?

In SNAP, an IPV means the person is accused of deliberately doing things like:

• Lying on an application or recertification (income, household members, address, etc.)

• Hiding facts that would reduce or stop benefits

• Selling or trading SNAP benefits/EBT card for cash or non-food items

• Using benefits for items that aren’t allowed (like alcohol or cigarettes)

• Doing anything that violates the SNAP statute or regulations to get, use, or traffic benefits

The key word is intentional – a mistake or misunderstanding is not an IPV (though the agency can still ask for repayment of overissued benefits).

2. What an IPV lawyer does for an individual recipient

For a person accused of SNAP/benefits fraud, an intentional program violation lawyer will typically:

a. Review the allegations and evidence

• Get the state agency’s case file (transaction data, applications, interview notes, investigator reports).

• Check whether the evidence actually shows intent or just unusual patterns (like multiple same-day purchases, whole-dollar transactions, or PIN errors, which some states misuse as “proof” of trafficking).

b. Explain your rights and options

• Whether to sign or refuse a waiver of hearing (many people sign without understanding they’re basically admitting an IPV).

• The differences between:

  • An administrative disqualification hearing

  • A court prosecution (criminal case)

  • Paying back benefits vs. fighting the allegation

c. Defend you at the hearing or in court

• Challenge the accuracy/interpretation of EBT transaction data.

• Present explanations (work schedule, shared shopping, cultural food buying patterns, etc.).

• Cross-examine investigators or caseworkers.

• Argue that the agency does not have “clear and convincing” evidence of intent, which is often required.

d. Fight the penalties

The lawyer is trying to prevent or reduce things like:

• Disqualification from SNAP:

  • 1 year for a first IPV

  • 2 years for a second

  • Permanent ban for a third, or for certain serious trafficking offenses

• Required repayment of “overissued” benefits

• Possible criminal charges, fines, probation, or even jail in serious cases

They may negotiate settlements, argue for a lower overpayment amount, or try to keep a case administrative (no criminal record) instead of criminal.

3. What an IPV lawyer does for stores and businesses

There’s a second category: lawyers who defend retailers accused of SNAP trafficking (e.g., corner stores, groceries, gas stations). They:

• Respond to USDA SNAP violation letters

• Challenge USDA’s transaction pattern analysis (e.g., lots of even-dollar sales, high-dollar transactions, or rapid repeat swipes)

• Defend against:

  • Permanent disqualification from SNAP

  • Civil money penalties (often tens of thousands of dollars)

• Help with appeals in federal court if USDA disqualifies the store

• Advise on compliance and staff training to prevent future issues

For a retailer, losing SNAP authorization can basically wipe out their business, so these lawyers are half-defense, half-“save the business” attorneys.

4. When it makes sense to call an IPV lawyer

It’s usually smart to talk to this kind of lawyer if:

• You get a letter mentioning “Intentional Program Violation,” “disqualification,” “trafficking,” or asking you to sign a hearing waiver.

• You’re told you owe a large overpayment because you “lied” or “failed to report” something.

• Your benefits were cut off or you’re banned, and you think it’s wrong.

• You’re a store owner who receives a SNAP violation notice from USDA.

Many legal aid offices or specialized firms do consultations for free or reduced cost, especially for low-income recipients.

5. Quick summary in plain English

An intentional program violation lawyer:

• Protects you when the government says you intentionally cheated on food stamps or other benefits.

• Checks if they really have proof that you meant to break the rules.

• Represents you at hearings or in court so you don’t accidentally admit guilt or agree to a lifetime ban.

• Tries to save your benefits or your store’s SNAP authorization, and reduce or eliminate the money they say you owe.

1. What “Intentional Program Violation” Means

In SNAP, an IPV is when a person knowingly and purposefully breaks SNAP rules to get benefits they are not entitled to. Federal regulations define an IPV as when someone, with deceitful intent:

• Makes a false or misleading statement

• Misrepresents, hides, or withholds facts (for example, not reporting income or a household member)

• Commits an act that violates SNAP laws or regulations, such as trafficking benefits (selling or trading them)

It’s not just a mistake or confusion—there must be intent to cheat the program.

2. Common Examples of IPV in SNAP

Examples that states commonly treat as IPV include:

• Lying on applications or recertifications

  • Not reporting a job or extra income

  • Saying someone moved out when they still live with you

• Failure to report changes on purpose

  • Knowing you must report increased income or a new household member but choosing not to

• Trafficking SNAP benefits

  • Selling your EBT card or PIN for cash

  • Exchanging SNAP benefits for drugs, alcohol, non-food items, or giving them to someone else for money

• Double dipping

  • Applying for and receiving SNAP in more than one state or under more than one identity

3. How the IPV Process Usually Works

Each state’s Department of Health/Human Services (or similar agency) has a fraud/IPV unit that investigates. The basic steps are:

1. Investigation

   • The agency reviews your case, wage matches, bank or employer records, and application forms.

   • If they think there is “clear and convincing evidence” you intentionally violated rules, they move forward.

2. Notice of Suspected IPV

   • You get a written notice explaining:

     • What they think you did

     • The time period involved

     • The potential penalties

   • Often this comes with a “Waiver of Right to Administrative Disqualification Hearing” form (sometimes just called an IPV waiver).

3. Your Options After Notice
   Typically, you may:

   • Request/attend an administrative disqualification hearing (ADH)

   • Sign the waiver (admitting the IPV and accepting the penalty without a hearing)

   • In more serious cases, the agency may refer the case for criminal prosecution instead of or in addition to an ADH.

Important: Signing a waiver usually means you are admitting an IPV and giving up your right to a hearing. Many legal advocates strongly recommend not signing until you’ve spoken with a lawyer or legal aid.

4. Your Rights if You’re Accused of IPV

If you receive an IPV notice, you generally have these rights (check your state’s specific rules, but they follow federal standards):

• Right to a fair hearing (ADH or court hearing)

  • To tell your side of the story

  • To explain mistakes, confusion, or lack of intent

• Right to see the evidence

  • You can ask for the documents they’re using against you

• Right to present evidence and witnesses

  • Pay stubs, letters, your own testimony, etc.

• Right to bring a representative

  • A lawyer or legal aid advocate (though the state doesn’t have to provide one for free)

• Right to appeal

  • If you lose the hearing, there is usually an appeal process outlined in your notice.

Attending the hearing will not result in you being arrested at the hearing itself; it’s an administrative process, not a criminal court proceeding.

5. Penalties for IPV

If the agency or a court finds that you committed an IPV, you face disqualification from SNAP for set periods under federal rules:

• First IPV: 12-month disqualification (1 year)

• Second IPV: 24-month disqualification (2 years)

• Third IPV: Permanent disqualification from SNAP

Harsher penalties apply in specific situations, for example:

• Trading SNAP for illegal drugs:

  • 2 years for first finding

  • Permanent for second

• Trading SNAP for firearms, ammunition, explosives:

  • Permanent disqualification on first finding

• Trafficking $500 or more in SNAP benefits:

  • Permanent disqualification

• Receiving SNAP in two places at once (fraudulent identity or residence):

  • 10-year disqualification

Only the person found to have committed the IPV is disqualified, but the household as a whole is still responsible for paying back any overpaid benefits.

6. Overpayments / Repayment

If an IPV is established, the agency will also create a claim for overpayment:

• This is the extra SNAP you received but shouldn’t have.

• The state can collect this by:

  • Reducing future SNAP benefits (if anyone in the household is still eligible)

  • Setting up a repayment plan

  • Intercepting state or federal tax refunds in some cases

  • Other collection methods allowed by law

IPV-related overpayments generally do not go away just because you are disqualified; the debt remains until repaid or otherwise resolved.

7. What to Do if You Get an IPV Notice

If you got a letter about an “Intentional Program Violation”:

1. Read the notice carefully

   • Note the deadline to request a hearing or respond.

2. Do not ignore it

   • If you do nothing, they may disqualify you by default and start collection.

3. Consider contacting legal aid

   • Many states have free or low-cost legal services that handle SNAP/IPV cases.

4. Gather your documents

   • Pay stubs, employer letters, proof of who lived in your home, any notices you received, etc.

5. Be cautious about signing waivers

   • Signing a waiver usually means you accept the IPV finding and penalty without a hearing.

SNAP-EBT training to avoid penalties

The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has sent out text messages reminding authorized users to stay up to date on proper SNAP-EBT training to avoid penalties. The texts went out Thursday, November 16, and will continue through today, Friday, November 17.

According to the website, “[FNS] expects Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) authorized stores to have an established, operational compliance policy and program in place to prevent SNAP violations from occurring. Our goal is to ensure that all store owners fully understand and appreciate this responsibility and are aware of training resources.”

Adequate training includes:

A thorough review of FNS training materials and program rules
Documented initial training
Documented refresher training
Authorized users will receive the following text: “USDA: Make sure your staff is trained on SNAP-EBT rules. Learn more: fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer-reminder-training.”

SNAP customers are important to c-stores, and NACS is fighting for hot foods to be SNAP eligible items.

Americans relish the flexibility to purchase hot meals—such as a rotisserie chicken, soup or a hot sandwich—as they juggle multiple responsibilities. Americans who depend on SNAP need that type of flexibility as well. In fact, of the more than 42 million SNAP participants, approximately 70% are children, elderly or have disabilities. Removing the hot foods restriction is a commonsense update to modernize the program.

The Hot Foods Act (H.R. 3519) was introduced in the House with bipartisan support. NACS strongly supports the Hot Foods Act and removing the SNAP hot foods restriction in the upcoming Farm Bill.

SNAP-EBT training to avoid penalties