1. Accepting SNAP EBT and Encouraging SNAP purchases at your Farm or Farmers Market
Presented by:
Jheanell West
EBT Coordinator- SNAP Program Integrity Branch
Debbie Crosby
Program Specialist
2/17/2017

2. Agenda NERO SNAP in Farmers Markets Benefits of Sign-Up Days
Steps of Setting up a SNAP Program
Free Equipment
Things to Remember
SNAP Retailer Authorization Requirements
Government Operated
Federal Non-Profit Organization
Other Non-Profit (LLC)
Markets with market manager
Publicity
Summary
Questions
2/17/2017

3. NERO SNAP in Farmers Market

4. Benefits of Sign-Up Days
Enable more SNAP participants to shop at markets; increasing their access to fresh/local fruits and vegetables
Support local farmers/markets through simplified application process
Help markets and farmers grow their business
Support local economies/communities
2/17/2017

5. Steps to Setting up a SNAP Program
Designate which individual/s will be responsible for EBT at the farmers’ market and where the terminal will be hosted.
Apply to the USDA for an FNS number.
Approval for an FNS # means that the market is an authorized SNAP retailer.
2/17/2017

6. Free Equipment Who’s Eligible? What’s Covered? Where Do I Apply?
SNAP-authorized farmers markets and direct marketing farmers that:
Do not currently possess functioning SNAP EBT equipment; OR
Currently possess functioning SNAP EBT equipment, but received that equipment before May 2, 2012.
What’s Covered?
FMC will cover the costs of purchasing or renting SNAP EBT equipment and services.
Where Do I Apply?
Visit FMCtoolbox.org to fill out the online application.
2/17/2017

7. Things to Remember
If not bundled with the device, choose a service provider, and set up the logistics (bank accounts for transferring funds, etc…).
Set up an accounting system to track EBT payments (and credit/debit) as well as incentives redeemed.
Consider offering an incentive program of some kind to attract and support low-income shoppers.
Connect with your local public health organization(s), SNAP Educators, and other entities working on issues of food access / insecurity to promote your market’s new SNAP and incentive program throughout the season.
Plan ahead for promotion and outreach activities.
2/17/2017

8. USDA Food & Nutrition Service (FNS) SNAP Retailer Authorization Requirements
2/17/2017

9. Government Owned/Operated/Sponsored
Letter from the city/town that they are operating the farmers market.
We like a Photo id (driver’s license) of that city official but it isn’t mandatory.
Copy of IRS Tax Exemption for the city/town.
City/town official to sign the application/reauthorization.
2/17/2017

10. 501(C)3 Federal Non-profit Organization
Executive Director or Corporate Officer of the Nonprofit must sign the application or re-authorization.
Copy of the IRS 501(C)3 Determination Letter.
Photo ID (Driver’s License)
Letter from the Non-Profit organization indicating operator/sponsor of the market.
2/17/2017

11. Other Non-profit Organization (state filing) and/or privately owned/operated LLC
Application must be signed by the organization or owner or corporate officer.
Photo ID and SSN verification are required.
Verification of responsible party for the market.
2/17/2017

12. Markets that are a loose association of farmers that have a market manager only running the market for them:
Application signed by the market manager
Photo ID and SSN verification
A letter from the Market manager
2/17/2017

13. Publicity Inform FNS and FMC when you have a sign-up day
Collaborate and promote through local and State partnerships
Publicize to local media using article/flyer and photo
Utilize social media
2/17/2017

14. Summary Get Approved Choose a Service Provider Receive Equipment
Report
2/17/2017

15. Questions Debbie Crosby Program Specialist Debbie.Crosby@fns.usda.gov
Jheanell West
Program Specialist- SNAP Program Integrity Branch
2/17/2017