DTA offices closed tomorrow, info on replacement if food lost due to power outage

FoodSNAP
02/12/24

As tomorrow's storm comes our way, two things of note:

 

1. ALL DTA offices are closed for in-person services tomorrow, February 13, due to the storm. DTA has posted an alert on Mass.gov/DTA. The statewide phone line (the Assistance Line) will be open, and SNAP workers will be working from home as they are able. As a reminder, here is a list of ways to get help if you can't get through the DTA Assistance Line. 

 

2. For any SNAP household who loses power for 4+ hours and has to toss food purchased with SNAP as a result:

  • Household must report the loss to DTA within 10 days, and get DTA a signature and specific information within 10 days after that. 
  • Households can do this over the phone without needing to talk to a worker
      • Call the Assistance Line - 877 382 2363
      • Select language, then press 5, then 1, and follow the prompts. 
  • Household can also send in a handwritten note through DTAConnect with the following:
      1. Name and DTA Agency ID (or date of birth)
      2. The reason for the food loss (such as power outage) and the date the food was lost
      3. The dollar value of the food lost that was bought with SNAP
      4. Signature of the head of household along with  words that say "this statement is signed under the penalty of perjury."
  • DTA must replace up to one month's worth of benefits within 10 days of getting the report of the food loss, or within 2 days of getting the completed DTA form or sworn statement, whichever date is later.
  • For more information from DTA, click here. For MLRI's misfortune replacement resources, click here

Stay safe and warm!