This month, SNAP benefits in the state of Texas are being delivered according to the schedule established by Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC), the state agency in charge of determining the eligibility of beneficiaries.
We will talk about that later, but it is also important to remember that thousands of families were recently affected by Hurricane Beryl, and many of them saw both their homes and food resources irreparably damaged.
Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP benefits) can receive replacement funds to buy their groceries again, and stay safe from food risk, at least while they get back on their feet after the extreme weather event.
Replacement SNAP Benefits After Hurricane Beryl
In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Beryl, the state of Texas has announced the issuance of additional payments for certain Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries. These payments are intended to help low-income families who have been severely affected by the storm.
Hurricane Beryl, which hit the state causing more than six billion dollars in damage, left a tragic toll of 44 dead and an unknown number of people missing. In addition to the loss of human life, the hurricane destroyed homes and property, leaving many families without access to food and other basic needs.
To mitigate the impact of this catastrophe, the state government has decided to provide additional assistance to SNAP beneficiaries who meet certain eligibility criteria. These additional payments, which will be distributed during the month of August, will be made automatically without beneficiaries having to submit any additional request. According to statements from the authorities, “this additional assistance is offered to help people who are facing financial difficulties” due to the effects of the hurricane. The funds will go toward ensuring these families have access to nutritious food as they continue to face the challenges brought on by the storm.
How to Claim SNAP Benefits Replacement Money?
“People in the affected counties can apply by dialing 2-1-1 and selecting Option 8. They can also download Form H1855 (Affidavit for Nonreceipt or Destroyed SNAP Benefits). Completed forms must be mailed to Texas Health and Human Services Commission, P.O. Box 149027, Austin, TX, 78714-9027, or faxed 877-447-2839,” acting governor Dan Patrick said.
“Recipients who live in counties not listed in the declarations must apply for replacement benefits in person at a local benefits office within 10 days of discovering their food was lost or destroyed due to the recent storms,” governor Patrick added.
More Regular SNAP Benefits Are Coming in the Coming Days
In addition to the additional payment for Hurricane Beryl, regular SNAP recipients in Texas will receive their benefits according to the distribution schedule that applies to households certified after June 1, 2020. This staggered distribution is based on the last two digits of the beneficiary’s eligibility determination (EDG) number.
Below are the SNAP benefit distribution dates for beneficiaries whose EDG numbers end in certain digits, corresponding to the period between August 19 and 31:
- August 19: Beneficiaries whose EDG numbers end in 11-13 will receive their benefits on this date.
- August 20: Those with EDG numbers ending in 14-17 will receive their benefits.
- August 21: Beneficiaries whose EDG numbers end in 18-20 will have access to their benefits.
- August 22: Those with EDG ending in 21-24 will be able to avail their benefits.
- August 23: Beneficiaries with EDG numbers ending in 25-27 will receive their benefits.
- August 24: Households whose EDG ends in 28-31 will have access to its benefits.
- August 25: Beneficiaries whose EDG ends in 32-34 will be able to avail their benefits.
- August 26: Households with EDG numbers ending in 35-38 will receive their benefits.
- August 27: Beneficiaries with EDG ending in 39-41 and 46-49 will receive their benefits.
- August 28: Households whose EDG ends in 42-45, 50-53, and 96-99 will have access to their benefits.
- August 29: Beneficiaries with EDG ending in 11-13 will receive their benefits again.
- August 30: Those with EDG numbers ending in 14-17 will be able to avail their benefits.
- August 31: Households with EDG numbers ending in 18-20 will receive their benefits.
