X. Redeeming Checks

  • In the event a problem occurs with reimbursement, the farmer should contact FMNP staff at IDHS Bureau of Family Nutrition directly at (217) 782-2166 or by emailing DHS.FMNP@illinois.gov.
  • WIC or Senior participants may redeem FMNP checks only with an authorized contracted farmer or his or her representatives at a market or roadside stand for the purchase of eligible foods.
    • Checks issued to WIC participants are clearly marked "WIC."
    • Checks issued to seniors are clearly marked with the word "Senior."
  • Contracted authorized farmers participating in the FMNP shall not refuse to accept properly presented FMNP checks in exchange for eligible foods and shall offer FMNP participants the same courtesies as other market and roadside stand customers.
  • The farmer should total the cost of the produce selected and inform the FMNP participant of the total.
  • If the total price of the produce selected is not the same as the value of the check, the FMNP participant may:
    • pay the amount over the value of the check.
    • select additional produce to bring the purchase total to the value of the check.
    • accept the produce selected at less than the check value.
    • no change may be given if the amount of purchase is less than the full value of the check.
  • The FMNP participant gives the farmer the appropriate number of checks to pay for the produce.
  • FMNP participants must use the checks between July 10 and October 31 of the year they are issued.
    • Only checks from the current year may be accepted. Checks from prior years will not be reimbursed.
    • Check color and dates are changed annually to assist in assessing if they are current.
    • More than one check can be used to purchase allowable items.
  • All FMNP checks will reflect the "First Day" and "Last Day" to use by dates and the "Farmer Must Deposit by" date.
  • All of the following must be completed to allow for proper payment:
    • The Farmer's 4-digit ID number must be stamped clearly, in black ink, in the box on the front of each check.
    • The back of the check must be endorsed, in black ink.
    • The endorsement must match the farmer name or business name provided on the Application Form.
  • All redeemed checks must be deposited in the farmer's bank account by the "Farmer Must Deposit by" date of the year that they are issued.
  • Checks will be routed from the Farmers' first bank of deposit, through the Federal Reserve System, then routed to the IDHS Contracted Bank where it will be processed as a debit against the State of Illinois' account. Funds will be deposited into the Farmers' first bank of deposit. The IDHS contracted Bank information and routing number will be displayed on the checks.
    • Checks arriving at the bank on or after December 1 will not be paid.

Previous

IX. Cash, Change, Credits and Refunds

Next

XI. Eligible Foods