The goal of this project is to help service providers gain a basic knowledge of nutrition benefits programs and equip them with plain-language materials to make the application process feel less overwhelming for farmers. The hope is this will empower more farmers to complete retailer applications for federal nutrition assistance programs.
Farmers and Market Managers can reserve a 45-minute appointment to complete the application and receive SNAP authorization on the spot if eligible. Attendees will also learn about free equipment and processing methods to start accepting benefits payments quickly once authorized.
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NOTE: As of January 23, 2025 travel for USDA FNS agents for these events has been suspended indefinitely, and these will be hybrid events. Appointments and walk-ins will meet one-on-one with agents over zoom or by telephone. To receive same day authorization, farmers will need to create a login.gov account, and can choose to fill out an application and upload their identity documents in advance or do this live with the agent. Farmers are encouraged to do this ahead of time, but there will also be people on site to help do this during the event if needed.
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Click here to see what documents are needed to get authorization.
All events open to all farmers and farmers markets seeking SNAP / EBT authorization. Choose the most convenient day and location:
Zoom Selling is a SNAP: Monday, July 7, 2025; drop in between 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm. To get help with SNAP authorization and answers to your questions directly from a USDA agent. Book an appointment here (link). For more information on how to prepare for your appointment, click here (instructions in English and Spanish).
Train-the-Trainer Events
August 2025 3-Part Webinar Series
Register Here - https://forms.gle/QtKQn6ScQ43zsefs8
You're a trusted advisor to you local farmers, and accepting nutrition benefits is an important marketing channel to consider. This project can help you with the knowledge and resources to confidently assist farmers interested in nutrition benefits authorization.
Accepting nutrition benefits can be a vital part of how your farm can support the local community and sustain your business.
Did you know that Marylanders received $126 million per month in SNAP / EBT funding in FY24? Over 580, 000 Maryland children received SUN Bucks (another form of SNAP/ EBT) in 2024?