First Of Month No Longer Only Day Oklahomans Will Receive Food Stamps

News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) has changed when recipients of what was formerly known as the food stamp program will receive their benefits.

Right now, consumers of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) receive their benefits on the first of each month. OKDHS has decided to modify the program, and issue those benefits on three different days each month. The department says the change allows for better customer service, and gives grocers more time to restock their shelves with nutritious foods.

"Beginning April 1, the new plan will be phased in over a four-month period," said Kathie Wright, SNAP Program Manager for the OKDHS. "The Oklahoma Grocer's Association asked us to make this change so their retail store membership could better serve their customers. By adding two more issuance dates, grocers will be able to adequately stock their shelves, and provide fresher fruits and vegetables."

SNAP customers will be divided into three groups using the last digit of their case number. Case numbers ending in 0-3 will continue to receive benefits on the first of each month. Case numbers ending in 4-6 will receive benefits on the fifth of each month, and case numbers ending in 7-9 will receive benefits on the 10th of each month.

Wright said although the change may cause some initial confusion, she did not expect it to cause any major problems. Customers with questions should contact their local county social worker.