How to Support Our Communities While Following SNAP Rules

Independent grocers play a vital role in feeding our communities, especially those who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In the last week, independents have sprung into action to help those affected by the recent freeze in SNAP fund distribution. But after the USDA issued a notice about the SNAP Equal Treatment Rule, many grocers had to abandon their plans and were left wondering what they can do legally to help.

Keep reading for what we know and examples of how some independents have pivoted their plans.

Understanding the SNAP Equal Treatment Rule

The USDA’s Equal Treatment Requirement ensures fairness in how SNAP participants are treated at the register.

According to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), “SNAP-authorized retailers must offer the same terms, prices, and conditions for eligible foods to all customers, regardless of how they pay: cash, credit, debit, or SNAP.”

This means that offering discounts, promotions, or free items exclusively to SNAP customers is not allowed, unless your store has received an approved waiver from the USDA.

The rule ensures equality, but it can sometimes feel limiting for community-minded grocers who want to go above and beyond in helping neighbors experiencing food insecurity. Fortunately, the USDA offers a formal process to request a waiver when programs are designed to encourage healthier food choices or support community nutrition.

How to Request a SNAP Equal Treatment Waiver

Grocers can request a waiver to legally offer SNAP-specific incentives, such discounts on delivery for SNAP customers. Here’s how:

Prepare your request: Include your store’s name, FNS number, and address. Describe the incentive program clearly — which foods it covers, how it operates, and the intended benefits for SNAP shoppers. Note the start and end dates.
Submit your waiver: Send your request to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service at SM.FN.IncentiveProgram@usda.gov. If you’re part of a nutrition incentive program (like GusNIP), confirm whether your program already has a blanket waiver.
Wait for approval: The USDA typically reviews and responds within about 60 days. You must wait for written approval before launching your program.
Keep good records: Maintain documentation about your program’s design and outcomes. Transparency helps ensure compliance and supports future applications.

For full guidance, visit the FNS Equal Treatment Notice.

How Other Independent Grocers Are Helping Legally & Creatively

Even without a waiver, IGA grocers across the country are finding innovative ways to support hunger relief in their communities while staying compliant with SNAP rules.

Geissler’s “Donate & Get A Plate” Community Meal
Geissler’s Supermarket in Connecticut is hosting a community meal and fundraiser with Chef Lillard “Chef Jay” Lewis, encouraging customers to donate to the Windsor Food and Fuel Bank in exchange for a hot meal. This event provides a way for the store to help those in need without singling out SNAP shoppers, which aligns with the Equal Treatment Rule.

Foods, Etc.'s Buy A Bag, Feed A Family

At Foods, Etc. in California, shoppers can "buy a bag" at checkout, donating funds to be distributed as store gift cards to families in need, helping them fill up their grocery bags. The store has pledged to match up to $15,000 in donations.

Additional options include:

Partnering with local food banks or meal programs for donation-based meals open to all.
Creating “Buy One, Give One” promotions that benefit community pantries rather than individuals.
Working with nonprofit partners on healthy food incentive programs that have USDA waivers in place.

These efforts show that you can support food access and community wellbeing while staying within regulatory guidelines.

The Takeaway for IGA Grocers

Know the rule: SNAP benefits can’t be used for offers or discounts that apply only to SNAP customers unless you have an approved waiver.
Be proactive: If your store wants to run a SNAP-focused nutrition incentive, submit a waiver request to the USDA.
Get creative: Partner with local organizations to host inclusive community events, like Geissler’s, that welcome everyone to contribute and benefit.

At IGA, we’re proud to celebrate stores that serve their communities with compassion, integrity, and innovation, and we want to hear what you're doing to help your customers. Email Associate Director of Communications Jessica Vician with your stories, as we will continue to feature examples within our community every week.

Together, we can continue to fight hunger, strengthen local ties, and uphold the values that make independent grocers the heart of America’s neighborhoods.