Participant Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for TEFAP food assistance, households must meet state eligibility criteria. Each state establishes its own criteria for determining eligibility, which may include income standards. These income standards can be met through participation in other federal, state, or local food, health, or welfare programs. States have the flexibility to adjust income criteria to ensure that assistance is provided to those most in need.
Key Facts
- Participant Eligibility Requirements:
- Households must meet state eligibility criteria.
- Each state sets its own criteria for determining eligibility for TEFAP food assistance.
- Income standards can be met through participation in other federal, state, or local food, health, or welfare programs.
- States have the flexibility to adjust income criteria to ensure assistance is provided to those most in need.
- Recipients of prepared meals are considered to be needy and are not subject to a means test.
- Eligible Organizations:
- Public or private nonprofit organizations that provide nutrition assistance to low-income Americans may receive food through TEFAP.
- Organizations distributing food for home use must determine household eligibility based on state-set income standards.
- Organizations providing prepared meals must primarily serve low-income individuals.
- How to Apply:
- To apply for TEFAP, individuals and households should contact their State Distributing Agency (SDA) for further assistance.
Recipients of prepared meals through TEFAP are considered to be needy and are not subject to a means test.
Eligible Organizations
Public or private nonprofit organizations that provide nutrition assistance to low-income Americans may receive food through TEFAP. Organizations that distribute food for home use must determine household eligibility based on state-set income standards. Organizations providing prepared meals must primarily serve low-income individuals.
How to Apply
Individuals and households who wish to apply for TEFAP should contact their State Distributing Agency (SDA) for further assistance.
References
- Eligibility and How to Apply | Food and Nutrition Service
- The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) | Benefits.gov
- The Emergency Food Assistance Program | Food and Nutrition Service
FAQs
Who is eligible for TEFAP?
Households that meet state eligibility criteria are eligible for TEFAP food assistance. Each state sets its own eligibility criteria, which may include income standards.
What are the income requirements for TEFAP?
Income standards for TEFAP vary by state. However, states have the flexibility to adjust income criteria to ensure that assistance is provided to those most in need.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to receive TEFAP benefits?
No, you do not need to be a U.S. citizen to receive TEFAP benefits.
How do I apply for TEFAP?
To apply for TEFAP, contact your State Distributing Agency (SDA).
What types of organizations are eligible to receive TEFAP food?
Public or private nonprofit organizations that provide nutrition assistance to low-income Americans may receive food through TEFAP.
What types of food are available through TEFAP?
TEFAP provides a variety of nutritious, high-quality USDA Foods, including canned goods, dry goods, and fresh produce.
How much food can I receive through TEFAP?
The amount of food you can receive through TEFAP varies depending on your household size and income.
Can I receive TEFAP benefits if I am receiving other forms of food assistance?
Yes, you can receive TEFAP benefits even if you are receiving other forms of food assistance, such as SNAP or WIC.