MR#24.33: Extending SNAP Employment & Training Job Retention Services

12/30/2024

Summary

• Effective 01/01/2025, the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) will extend job retention services to eligible SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) Program participants for up to 365 calendar days from the start date of their initial employment. 

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Introduction

• The Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 allows job retention services to be offered as part of the SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) Program for at least 30 days and not more than 90 calendar days after an individual who receives employment and training services obtains employment. Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) is waiving the 90 calendar day provision of the regulations in 7 CFR 273.7(e)(1)(viii) allowing IDHS to offer eligible participants job retention services for up to a maximum of 365 calendar days. 

Job Retention Services Demonstration Project

• IDHS has received waiver approval from Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) to operate a demonstration project that will evaluate the effect of providing extended job retention services to SNAP E&T participants for up to 365 calendar days beginning with the first day of their initial employment, when the job is obtained while in the program. In addition to assistance with initial employment expenses, job retention services can also include case management and job coaching.
• Payment for a work related expense may be requested by the participant beginning with the first day of employment through the 365 calendar day period. SNAP E&T funds, including job retention services, cannot be authorized to pay for expenses that are covered by the participant's employer.
• This demonstration project is intended to help IDHS improve the effectiveness and efficiency of benefits and services to SNAP customers by providing the support services and additional resources they may need to help maintain employment as they face potential barriers while working. An evaluation on the impact of providing extended job retention services to participants is required and will be submitted to FNS through a series of reports yearly.

Note: The Office of Workforce Development or the SNAP E&T Provider issues all supportive service payments. See PM 21-06-11 and WAG 21-06-11. The Family Community Resource Centers (FCRCs) should only issue supportive services when it cannot be issued by the servicing Provider, such as a bus pass to attend the initial meeting with the Provider.

Manual Revisions

(signed copy on file)

Dulce M. Quinter

Secretary-Designate, Illinois Department of Human Services

Forms referenced: