Support for Online SNAP/EBT

Online SNAP eligibility is shifting as more businesses embrace Online SNAP.  The most straightforward approval process is for businesses that have existing authorization to accept SNAP in person, with some exceptions.  FNS recently approved their first “online only” retailer, but their internal approval process is still being developed and thus, retailers that wish to transact solely online can expect the approval process to take longer.

At this time, the Farmers Market store type is not eligible for Online SNAP approval — See categorizations here.

You can reach out to the SNAP Online Purchasing Team at SM.FN.snaponline@usda.gov

Be sure to include your business name, business address, and FNS number in the email.

It’s important to remember that only FNS can grant approval, so it’s a good idea to read through the resources on their site and consult with them for direction on eligibility.  Since local food sales often use innovative business models to accomplish their work,  becoming eligible sometimes requires specific changes to the business model or an addition of a new model to become eligible to offer Online SNAP.

LFM requires an “Online Snap” Customer Success package to implement Online SNAP but does not charge additional Monthly Subscription fees to offer Online SNAP.  Please see our Pricing Page for the different packages we offer.  Current LFM customers should fill out our form if they are interested in implementing Online SNAP.  Others should request a demo and we will recommend the right package for your business!

Yes! LFM offers an Advanced Inventory module that enables merchants to track their inventory, manage PAR levels to ensure they always maintain a minimum quantity of products on hand.

Yes, LFM supports SNAP match programs like DUFB, including customizable features to set a daily maximum and match percentage. LFM supports two models:

• Credit model: Credit is earned on SNAP payments to use on a future transaction toward SNAP-match eligible items.
• Customizable discount model: SNAP Match eligible items are discounted using a discount code for customers paying with their SNAP benefits.

Step 1: Tell us a bit about your business by filling out this form.We’ll get in touch with next steps, which include setting up a demo if you are not already an LFM customer.

Step 2: Get your LFM store setup (our team will help with this).

Step 3:  Get a Forage account setup — the LFM team will direct you to the right contact person.

Step 4: Submit an LOI to FNS (LFM & Forage team will provide information — this can be done concurrently with getting your store setup).

Step 5: Prep your online store for production testing with FNS (LFM & Forage team will provide guidance).

Step 6: Production Testing and approval by FNS.

Step 7: You’re live!

Per FNS in-store SNAP requirements, all authorized SNAP retailers are required to have certain stocking requirements and offer a certain range of products. This varies based on Store Type. If you have questions about your inventory, Store Type, and how this impacts your eligibility to become a SNAP online retailer, reach out to FNS at SM.FN.snaponline@usda.gov.

Join our webinar on April 23rd at 11am PT to learn more!