PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — All Oregonians who apply for or renew Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in Oregon must complete an interview before receiving monthly food assistance, according to the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). The change goes into effect on June 1.
Officials say this change restores “standard federal SNAP rules.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, some households were allowed to skip renewal interviews under temporary federal flexibilities. Those exemptions end May 31.
ODHS officials said interviews help ensure benefit amounts accurately reflect a household’s current circumstances.
“These updates help make sure people receive the correct SNAP benefits for their current situation,” Jessica Amaya Hoffman, SNAP director at ODHS, said in a statement. “We know adding another step may be challenging. Our staff are here to help answer questions and support people in the way that works best for them. Completing the interview and providing documents when requested helps us process benefits correctly and connect people to the full amount they qualify for.”
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Under the temporary pandemic policy, some households did not have to complete renewal interviews if all adults were at least 60 years old or met the SNAP definition of disability and no one in the household earned income from work.
ODHS said some people may complete a SNAP renewal interview for the first time when renewing benefits this year.
The agency said interviews are a standard part of the SNAP process and help confirm information, prevent errors and ensure households receive the correct benefit amount. Interviews also help connect people with additional benefits and services for which they may qualify.
People applying for or renewing SNAP benefits must complete the interview before benefits can be approved or renewed.
ODHS encouraged households to update their contact information and watch for notices by mail, email, text message or phone call about interview scheduling. The agency also urged people to respond promptly to avoid delays in processing benefits.
People can contact ODHS online through a ONE Online account, by phone at 800-699-9075 or 711 for TTY and relay calls, in person at a local office or by mail at the ONE Customer Service Center in Salem.
More information about SNAP benefits is available at Oregon.snap.gov.
