Tiered levels are now available in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) administered by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

The program is designed to eliminate the Benefits Cliff many clients fear in the program. Eligibility for SNAP (formerly known as food stamps), has long been for households living at or below 130 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. Lower income levels receive more benefits. The new system allows clients to retain some benefits as their income increases up to 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level.

“Fear of losing food benefits can be a deterrent to taking a new job, working more hours, or even accepting a promotion,” said Matt Damschroder, director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. “Instead of an all-or-nothing approach, we are creating a sliding scale that encourages people to earn more by slowly reducing their benefits as their income grows.”

Learn more at benefits.ohio.gov.