Expedited SNAP Benefits Are Issued During the Black-Out Period

03/15/16

Information Memo

Summary

• Effective 03/16/16, expedited SNAP benefits will no longer be held for processing if issued on one of the 3 consecutive days (known as the black-out period) following schedule cut-off.
• This change allows for the Department of Human Services (DHS) to be in federal compliance by ensuring that customers receive expedited SNAP benefits within the required timeframe.

Expedited SNAP benefits may be issued at anytime during the month. But with the implementation of one schedule cut-off in 2013 some FCRC case actions, including expedited SNAP issuances processed on one of the 3 consecutive days following schedule cut-off are held and released on the 4th day. This process is often referred to as the "black-out period."

Effective 03/16/16, expedited SNAP benefits will no longer be held if issued on one of the 3 days following schedule cut-off. This change allows for the Department of Human Services (DHS) to be in federal compliance by insuring that customers receive expedited SNAP benefits within the required timeframe.

[signed copy on file]

James T. Dimas

Secretary -designate, Illinois Department of Human Services