SNAP program changes to ‘sliding scale’ method

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — A big change is now impacting some Ohioans who are members of the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services informed the public Monday that tiered levels are now active in the SNAP program to help members with declining benefits if their income would rise.

“Fear of losing food benefits can be a deterrent to taking a new job, working more hours, or even accepting a promotion,” said Matt Damschroder, director of ODJFS. “Instead of an all-or-nothing approach, we are creating a sliding scale that encourages people to earn more by slowly reducing their benefits as their income grows.”

Members with a federal poverty level of 200 percent will see their monthly benefits begin to “gradually decrease.” According to Damschroder, the new method allows SNAP members to take either an increase in pay and/or a promotion, with the elimination of losing their benefits instantly.

“This provides an incentive to accept promotions and pay raises knowing they won’t immediately lose benefits,” said Damschroder.

To learn more about SNAP benefits, click here .

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