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Utilizing SNAP Benefits at Local Farmers Markets in Ohio

Growth in U.S. Farmers Markets: From 1,755 in 1994 to 8,771 in 2017 (USDA ERS, 2022) – a staggering increase of almost 7,000 markets. Whilst enhancing access to fresh, local food for numerous people, many Ohioans on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are unable to utilize...

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Farmers markets proliferation in the U.S. skyrocketed by approximately 7,000 from 1994 to 2017,...
Farmers markets proliferation in the U.S. skyrocketed by approximately 7,000 from 1994 to 2017, rising from 1,755 to 8,771 participants (USDA ERS, 2022). This uptick in market numbers has boosted the availability of fresh, homegrown produce for numerous communities. However, SNAP beneficiaries in Ohio, who constituted a significant portion of these communities, face restrictions as their benefits cannot be utilized at all farmers markets within the state.

Utilizing SNAP Benefits at Local Farmers Markets in Ohio

Streamlined Guide to Accepting SNAP Benefits at Ohio Farmers Markets

Boost your farmers market's accessibility and revenue by accepting SNAP benefits! Here's a straightforward guide to help you navigate the process.

Embracing SNAP Benefits: A Game Changer for Ohio Farmers Markets

Many markets across Ohio already accept SNAP benefits, and the benefits to consumers, vendors, and the community are undeniable. In 2020, $446,360 in SNAP benefits were redeemed at Ohio farmers markets, marking a staggering 97.75% increase since 2013 [USDA FNS, 2022]. Now is the perfect time for more markets to jump on board!

Streamlined Steps to Accept SNAP Benefits at Your Market

  1. Explore Management Essentials
  2. Legal Structure: Is your market organized as a cooperative, LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, or not-for-profit? While not mandatory to accept SNAP, having a legal structure is good business practice [USDA FNS, n.d.].
  3. Financial Management: Does your market have a dedicated bank account to handle income and expenses? SNAP benefits are electronically deposited once transactions process, so a bank account is essential [USDA FNS, n.d.].
  4. Administration and Management: Designate a responsible person to process transactions, maintain records, and train vendors. You might work with a local non-profit for these services [USDA FNS, n.d.].
  5. Promotion: Consider offering matching dollars to SNAP recipients. These dollars typically come from charitable organizations or local foundations [USDA FNS, n.d.]. Explore the Nutrition Incentives Fact Sheet Series on our website for more info.
  6. Apply for SNAP Eligibility
  7. Get started by applying to USDA FNS to become an eligible retailer. Find the application on the USDA FNS Website (fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer-apply) or email [email protected].
  8. Address application questions regarding market contact, location, and responsible officials. Depending on the legal structure of your market, you may need an EIN or a social security number [USDA FNS, n.d.].
  9. Secure the Equipment Needed to Accept SNAP
  10. Manual Voucher System: No EBT terminal required; however, telephone access is essential for verifying benefit availability [ODJFS, n/a].
  11. Mobile Apps: Use the SNAP mobile app for one year at no cost through the National Association of Farmers Market Nutrition Programs (NAFMNP) [marketlink.org/apply].
  12. Accepting SNAP and Debit/Credit Cards: Work with a third-party processor (TPP) to acquire a wireless EBT terminal. Fees vary, so compare options, services, and contract terms [USDA FNS, n.d.].
  13. Follow Through and Succeed
  14. Upon approval, start accepting SNAP benefits.
  15. Keep records of SNAP transactions, tokens/scrip redeemed by vendors, and vendor reimbursements.
  16. Share performance data to demonstrate community impact, seek sponsorships, and promote increased access to fresh, local foods for food insecure individuals and families.

By accepting SNAP at your farmers market, you create a win-win situation for both SNAP recipients and vendors. In 2023, over 3.5 billion SNAP dollars were distributed in Ohio [OLSC, 2023], and expanding choices for SNAP recipients will benefit everyone involved while keeping food dollars circulating within the community.

Resources

  • SNAP Farmers Market Application: fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer-apply
  • SNAP How-to Handbook: dx.doi.org/10.9752/MS039.06-2010

References

  • Ohio Legislative Service Commission (OLSC). (2023). Legislative budget office of LSC, supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) [PDF]. lsc.ohio.gov/assets/organizations/legislative-service-commission/files/infographics-supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap.pdf
  • U.S. Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service (USDA ERS). (2022). Growth in the number of U.S. farmers markets slows in recent years.ers.usda.gov/data-products/chart-gallery/gallery/chart-detail/?chartId=104402
  • U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service (USDA FNS). (n.d.). Farmer/Producer. Retrieved June 7, 2024 from fns.usda.gov/snap/farmer-producer
  • U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service (USDA FNS). (2020). SNAP redemptions report. Retrieved June 7, 2024. fns.usda.gov/snap/redemptions-report-fy-2013-2020
  • U.S. Small Business Administration (USBA). (n.d.). Choose a business structure. Retrieved June 7, 2024 from sba.gov/business-guide/launch-your-business/choose-business-structure
  • Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). (n.a.). EBT Section. Contact for additional information about the voucher system.
  • Usda FNS (n.d.). SNAP Program Guidance. Retrieved June 7, 2024 from fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer-guidance
  • Originally written November 5, 2018 by Christie Welch, Program Specialist; Direct Agricultural Marketing, Ohio State University Extension, South Centers.
  • Enhancing the lifestyle of SNAP recipients and local farmers, agriculture becomes intertwined with nutrition as more Ohio farmers markets adopt food-and-drink options that align with dietary guidelines.
  • Home-and-garden projects can provide a unique twist to items sold at farmers markets, such as locally grown herbs and vegetables for use in preparing healthy meals, furthering the alliance between agriculture, nutrition, and sustainable living.

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