Policy Memo: Express Stamps Demonstration Project

Summary:

Express Stamps is a two year Federal Food Stamp demonstration project in DuPage, Kane, Lake and Will Counties that starts on 10/23/06.
Persons visiting selected food pantries for emergency food will be able to apply for Express Stamps at the food pantry using a web-based application.
The only verification needed is identity.
Persons eligible for Express Stamps will leave the pantry with their emergency food supply and a Link card to access their benefits.
One or two months of food stamp benefits, based on the date of application will be issued to applicants who are eligible for Express Stamps Benefits.
FCRC staff are responsible for: issuing PIN Packs to approved Express Stamps cases; processing applications for persons who reapply for the regular Food Stamp program; and processing any appeals of Express Stamps approvals or denials.
A new DHS system, called "Case Worker Tools" has been developed to help in processing PIN Packs for Express Stamps approvals.
New TA 11, TAR 27 will be used for the first month's benefits and TA 56, TAR 06 for the second month's benefits for approved Express Stamps cases.
Form 3658, Illinois Link Card/PIN Issuance Form is not used when issuing PIN Packs on Express cases.