Allot of the time, we, get several questions from our American readers as to what happens when you stop using your food-stamps for a while. Now, we’re fully aware that each family gets an entirely different amount — and — sometimes using them varies. Some use them all, others, do not.
In phone calls with officials who handle food-stamps in various states, we, managed to confirm the following answering a popular question that we receive. Food stamps in the United States must be used throughout the year. If for any reason the stamps are not used for a full calendar year, then, you will be removed from the program and forfeit any benefits that are on the card. At that point, all remaining benefits will be removed after 365 days — and — one will be required to reapply if they’d like their benefits back.
A popular misconception among those that commit food-stamp and assistance fraud is that they can not use their card for multiple years and then continue to stack up their food stamp balance. Which is seriously incorrect, and, if they are managing to do such is indeed a crime.
Not used vs Expired
If your benefits expire, that, is entirely a different story. The 365 day rule generally applies to cancellation, the expiration, is when the card itself may be out dated. Also it’s worth noting that expiration also applies to recertification in most states. Failure to comply with certification rules usually results in expiring benefits. Expired benefits do not get removed from your card, and, you will still be able to use them until your balance gets to $0.
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