If your SNAP benefits haven’t come through in the past couple of weeks, you’re not alone.
Several callers to the Source this week reported delays of up to two weeks, citing confusion around paperwork and difficulty reaching staff for follow-up. Some said they submitted the required forms but haven’t received confirmation or benefits since.
According to officials from the Human Services Department, these delays are most often tied to recertification — the process of verifying eligibility that is now required every six months. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of these requirements were waived under federal emergency rules. But with those waivers now expired, the system has reverted to more stringent standards.
“There are some recertifications that haven’t been fulfilled, and some clients haven’t received their money because of that,” said Human Services spokesperson Ryan Nugent. “This is a federal program. You have to be in compliance to continue receiving these benefits, or there will be a stoppage.”
That means recipients need to submit updated information regularly, including proof of income and accurate contact details. Missing or incomplete documents can result in a disruption in assistance.
Nugent said the agency understands that the return to pre-pandemic rules has been an adjustment for many. “People got used to not having to provide a full application every six months,” he said. “But we’re back to what the system requires.”
Roughly 19,000 to 20,000 Virgin Islanders rely on SNAP benefits, issued via EBT cards, and Human Services is also monitoring discussions in Congress that could further impact the program. Among the proposals being debated in the 2025 Farm Bill are deeper work requirements for some recipients and potential cuts to overall SNAP funding, including changes tied to eliminating certain farm subsidies.
“We’re watching it closely,” Nugent said. “If those changes go through, they’ll definitely affect us. But for now, we’re doing our best to keep the program moving day to day.”
He encouraged anyone still waiting on benefits to check in with the department to ensure all documents have been submitted.
For help with your recertification or to check the status of your benefits, contact the Department of Human Services SNAP Division at 340-774-0930 on St. Thomas or
340- 773-2323 on St. Croix. Walk-ins are also accepted at local offices during regular business hours.
