COVID-19 Changes for Food and Nutrition Services
Extra Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) Benefits for COVID-19 ended in March 2023
Families enrolled in Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) have gotten extra benefits each month since March 2020 or after due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. February 2023 was the last month to get these extra benefits, called “emergency allotments” or “maximum supplements.” This was due to a federal change that ended emergency allotments for all states as of March 2023.
FNS households have gotten at least $95 extra per month through emergency allotments. February 2023 was the last month to get the emergency allotments.
If you’re enrolled in FNS, you should have still gotten your regular monthly benefit in March 2023. Here’s how to check your regular monthly benefit amount.
If you're enrolled in FNS, you should have still gotten your regular monthly benefit amounts in March 2023.
Your regular monthly benefit amount depends on:
- Your current eligibility
- Household size
- Other federal eligibility requirements
You can view your regular monthly benefit amount online at www.ebtedge.com or through the EBT Edge mobile app.
Regular monthly FNS benefits are issued between the 3rd and 21st of every month. Emergency allotments are issued on or after the 22nd of the month.
To get the most benefits you're eligible for, be sure to keep your FNS information up to date.
Food security for all North Carolinians remains a priority for NCDHHS.
Check with these resources to see if they can help:
- WIC: If you have a child under 5 and/or you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you may be eligible for WIC. Learn more about WIC and complete a WIC referral online.
- 211: Visit www.nc211.org or dial 211 to be connected to community food resources.
If you do not currently get FNS benefits: Apply online with ePass. Or complete a paper application and mail or take it to your county Department of Social Services.
Work Requirements for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents
Work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) are being temporarily and partially suspended beginning April 1, 2020, until the public health emergency declaration is lifted. The public health emergency is still in effect through May 11, 2023.
More Information
- Visit www.ebtedge.com and click on More Information under EBT Cardholders.
- Download the ebtEDGE mobile app. The app is available as a free download on the Apple Store and Google Play.
- Call the EBT Call Center at 1-888-622-7328.
Families and individuals who do not currently receive benefits can apply online with ePass.