What Is SNAP E&T? How Food Stamp Recipients Can Get Free Job Training

If you receive SNAP benefits, you may also qualify for free help finding a job, learning new skills or training for a different career. The program is called SNAP Employment and Training, or SNAP E&T.

SNAP E&T is not an additional food-stamp payment. Instead, it connects eligible SNAP participants with employment services, education and support with certain costs that may make it harder to attend training or start work.
 

What SNAP E&T can help with

Every state runs a SNAP E&T program, though available services can vary by location. The goal is to help people build skills, gain work experience and complete training that can lead to steady employment.

Depending on your state, SNAP E&T services may include job-search support, resume help, interview preparation, career planning, adult education, short-term training, certification programs and referrals to employers.

The program can also help with necessary costs tied to participation. You may be eligible for transportation assistance, childcare, books, class supplies, uniforms, work tools, testing fees or license fees if they are needed for an approved E&T activity. State agencies must cover or reimburse reasonable and necessary expenses directly related to SNAP E&T participation, although program rules and payment limits vary by state.

For example, a person taking an approved nursing assistant, commercial driver’s license training, or trade course may get help with a bus pass, required books, scrubs, work boots or certification-related costs. Ask the E&T provider before paying for these items because approval may be required first.
 

How much will you receive?

There is no standard SNAP E&T payment and no automatic increase to your regular SNAP food benefits.

The support you receive depends on your employment plan and the costs needed to complete it. One participant may receive only career counseling, while another may qualify for transportation reimbursement, childcare support or required course materials. The exact dollar amount, what is covered and whether the aid is paid directly or reimbursed afterward depend on your state and local provider.

Your regular SNAP benefit amount is separate. SNAP helps eligible households pay for groceries, while SNAP E&T provides job-training and employment services.

Who can take part?

You generally must receive SNAP to use SNAP E&T. Every state is required to operate an E&T program, but states decide whether individual participants can join voluntarily or must take part in certain work-related activities.

Some people are assigned to E&T because of SNAP work rules. Others can join voluntarily because they want job training, education or employment support.

Your state also determines whether you qualify for an exemption from a work requirement. Exemptions may depend on disability, age, caregiving duties, work status, school enrollment or another approved reason. If you receive a notice requiring participation, read it carefully and contact your caseworker before missing an appointment.
 

How to apply

The simplest way to enroll is to contact your local SNAP office or ask your SNAP caseworker about available E&T services. The USDA SNAP E&T participant page can direct you to your state program, and the USDA SNAP state directory lists state and local agency contacts.

When you call or visit, ask whether participation is voluntary or required, which training providers serve your area and which costs the program can cover. It is also important to ask whether transportation, childcare, books, uniforms, tools or certification fees must be approved before you spend money.
 

Takeaway

SNAP E&T can help SNAP recipients prepare for work or move into a higher-paying field. It does not provide every participant with a fixed cash payment, but it can offer free training and help with approved work-related costs.

The assistance available depends on your state, local provider and individual employment plan. Start with your state SNAP agency or local benefits office to learn what services are available

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