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JFS Emergency Assistance Program

Experiencing an emergency? JFS can help.


Our Emergency Assistance Program supports individuals and families whose benefits have been impacted by new SNAP entitlement requirements, ensuring you have access to essential food resources during times of need.

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What We Offer:

  • Help for those facing sudden food insecurity

  • Connections to additional community resources

 

Eligibility:

  • SNAP-eligible households or those affected by recent changes in eligibility

  • Individuals whose benefits have been reduced or interrupted due to new entitlement rules

 

Don’t wait, Apply Now!      

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Call us at 203-622-1881 for immediate assistance.

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What's Changing

Starting March 1, 2026, DSS will issue SNAP and Cash benefits on new days of the month due to a state law passed in 2024.

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Why We Chose March 1

We chose March 1 as our implementation date because February has fewer days than other months, which means the transition period will be shorter and easier for clients to manage. We also wanted to avoid times when family’s grocery bills are higher, like during the holidays, or the summertime when children are not in school.

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Background

Connecticut passed new legislation requiring DSS to spread out SNAP benefit issuance dates throughout the month rather than concentrating them in the first few days. This change will help reduce congestion at retailers and improve the overall client experience.

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Key Changes You Need to Know

Currently, DSS issues both SNAP and Cash benefits over the first 3 days of the month based on the first letter of the cardholder's last name.

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Beginning March 1, 2026:

  • Cash benefits will be issued on the 1st of the month only

  • SNAP benefits will be issued over the first 8 days of the month

 

New SNAP Distribution Schedule

SNAP benefits will now be issued based on the last two digits of the client's Client ID according to this schedule:

  • Client ID ending in 00-12: 1st of the month

  • Client ID ending in 13-24: 2nd of the month

  • Client ID ending in 25-37: 3rd of the month

  • Client ID ending in 38-49: 4th of the month

  • Client ID ending in 50-62: 5th of the month

  • Client ID ending in 63-74: 6th of the month

  • Client ID ending in 75-87: 7th of the month

  • Client ID ending in 88-99: 8th of the month

Important Reminders

  • SNAP benefits can only be accessed using an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card

  • Cash benefits can be accessed using an EBT card OR direct deposit

  • Clients interested in enrolling in direct deposit for Cash benefits should call our Benefit Center

  • Clients can view their EBT balance in real-time by visiting https://mydss.ct.gov

 

We’re grateful for your help in spreading the word about this upcoming change. Attached are jpg files you can post on social media and pdf posters you can print and post and/or handout. Please share, your support is essential.

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