Erie County issues guidance on arrival time of SNAP benefits

Department of Social Services cautions vigilance against fraud attempts

Submitted by the Press Secretary to the Erie County Executive

The state of New York has informed the Erie County Department of Social Services (ECDSS) this morning that the issuance of SNAP EBT benefits began Sunday, and will continue through next Monday, with 96% of SNAP households in Erie County receiving 100% of their authorized benefits.

These households are encouraged to watch their EBT balances carefully by using EBTedge.com and to be on guard against fraud attempts as their benefits are restored. Remember that New York state, county and EBT staff will never ask you to share your PIN. Do not share your personal identification number (PIN) with anyone, and remember that any text, email or phone call requesting your PIN is likely a scam.

Instructions on how to access your EBT balance can be found at: https://otda.ny.gov/workingfamilies/ebt/#balance.

Households that were due to receive their first payments on a new case in the month of November will not be included in this round of benefits payments. These households are encouraged not to wait and to seek assistance with a food pantry if they need food. Households may also find the nearest food pantries by calling 2-1-1 or by visiting www.211wny.org.

“We are relieved that SNAP benefits are once again being issued to families and individuals who rely on this vital program to put food on the table. The uncertainty caused by the government shutdown created real fear and hardship for households across our community,” said Karen Rybicki, commissioner of ECDSS. “I’m grateful that these benefits are being restored by New York state so that families can focus on meeting their basic needs rather than worrying about the source of their next meal.”

The federal shutdown is still in effect until actions by Congress and the president are finalized. This includes additional delays in the start of the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) until Nov. 24. Until the HEAP season begins, households facing emergency utility shutoffs can apply in person for utility arrears benefits to avoid utility shutoffs at the Emergency Social Services Division, located at 158 Pearl St., Buffaloc(https://www3.erie.gov/temporaryassistance/utility-arrears). 

ECDSS has created a page with available resources, guidance and supports to help families, older adults and individuals with shutdown-related concerns.