Attachment 6 7 CFR Part 247

Attachment 6- 7 CFR Part 247
ELECTRONIC CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS
e-CFR data is current as of November 20, 2019
Title 7 → Subtitle B → Chapter II → Subchapter A → Part 247
Title 7: Agriculture
PART 247—COMMODITY SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM
Contents
§247.1 Definitions.
§247.2 The purpose and scope of CSFP.
§247.3 Administering agencies.
§247.4 Agreements.
§247.5 State and local agency responsibilities.
§247.6 State Plan.
§247.7 Selection of local agencies.
§247.8 Individuals applying to participate in CSFP.
§247.9 Eligibility requirements.
§247.10 Distribution and use of CSFP commodities.
§247.11 Applicants exceed caseload levels.
§247.12 Rights and responsibilities.
§247.13 Provisions for non-English or limited-English speakers.
§247.14 Other public assistance programs.
§247.15 Notification of eligibility or ineligibility of applicant.
§247.16 Certification period.
§247.17 Notification of discontinuance of participant.
§247.18 Nutrition education.
§247.19 Dual participation.
§247.20 Program violations.
§247.21 Caseload assignment.
§247.22 Allocation and disbursement of administrative funds to State agencies.
§247.23 State provision of administrative funds to local agencies.
§247.24 Recovery and redistribution of caseload and administrative funds.
§247.25 Allowable uses of administrative funds and other funds.
§247.26 Return of administrative funds.
§247.27 Financial management.
§247.28 Storage and inventory of commodities.
§247.29 Reports and recordkeeping.
§247.30 Claims.
§247.31 Audits and investigations.
§247.32 Termination of agency participation.
§247.33 Fair hearings.
§247.34 Management reviews.
§247.35 Local agency appeals of State agency actions.
§247.36 Confidentiality of applicants or participants.
§247.37 Civil rights requirements.
A
: Sec. 5, Pub. L. 93-86, 87 Stat. 249, as added by Sec. 1304(b)(2), Pub. L. 95-113, 91 Stat. 980 (7 U.S.C. 612c note); sec. 1335, Pub.
L. 97-98, 95 Stat. 1293 (7 U.S.C. 612c note); sec. 209, Pub. L. 98-8, 97 Stat. 35 (7 U.S.C. 612c note); sec. 2(8), Pub. L. 98-92, 97 Stat. 611 (7 U.S.C.
612c note); sec. 1562, Pub. L. 99-198, 99 Stat. 1590 (7 U.S.C. 612c note); sec. 101(k), Pub. L. 100-202; sec. 1771(a), Pub. L. 101-624, 101 Stat. 3806
(7 U.S.C. 612c note); sec 402(a), Pub. L. 104-127, 110 Stat. 1028 (7 U.S.C. 612c note); sec. 4201, Pub. L. 107-171, 116 Stat. 134 (7 U.S.C. 7901
note); sec. 4221, Pub. L. 110-246, 122 Stat. 1886 (7 U.S.C. 612c note); sec. 4221, Pub. L. 113-79, 7 U.S.C. 612c note).

S

: 70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, unless otherwise noted.

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§247.1 Definitions.
Following is a list of definitions that apply to the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP).
2 CFR part 200, means the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal
Awards published by OMB. The part reference covers applicable: Acronyms and Definitions (subpart A), General Provisions
(subpart B), Post Federal Award Requirements (subpart D), Cost Principles (subpart E), and Audit Requirements (subpart F).

(NOTE: Pre-Federal Award Requirements and Contents of Federal Awards (subpart C) does not apply to the National School
Lunch Program).
Applicant means any person who applies to receive program benefits. Applicants include program participants applying for
recertification.
Breastfeeding women means women up to one year postpartum who are breastfeeding their infants.
Caseload means the number of persons the State agency may serve on an average monthly basis over the course of the
caseload cycle.
Caseload cycle means the period from January 1 through the following December 31.
Certification means the use of procedures to determine an applicant's eligibility for the program.
Certification period means the period of time that a participant may continue to receive program benefits without a review of
his or her eligibility.
Children means persons who are at least one year of age but have not reached their sixth birthday.
Commodities means nutritious foods purchased by USDA to supplement the diets of CSFP participants.
CSFP means the Commodity Supplemental Food Program.
Department means the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Disqualification means the act of ending Program participation of a participant as a punitive sanction.
Dual participation means simultaneous participation by an individual in CSFP and the WIC Program, or in CSFP at more
than one distribution site.
Elderly persons means persons at least 60 years of age.
Fiscal year means the period from October 1 through the following September 30.
FNS means the Food and Nutrition Service.
Infants means persons under one year of age.
Local agency means a public or private nonprofit agency, including an Indian tribal organization, which enters into an
agreement with the State agency to administer CSFP at the local level.
Nonprofit agency means a private agency or organization with tax-exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code, or that
has applied for tax-exempt status with the Internal Revenue Service.
Postpartum women means women up to one year after termination of pregnancy.
Proxy means any person designated by a participant, or by the participant's adult parent or caretaker, to obtain
supplemental foods on behalf of the participant.
7 CFR part 250 means the Department's regulations pertaining to the donation of foods for use in USDA food distribution
programs.
State means any of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam,
American Samoa, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
State agency means the agency designated by the State to administer CSFP at the State level; an Indian tribe or tribal
organization recognized by the Department of the Interior that administers the program for a specified tribe or tribes; or, the
appropriate area office of the Indian Health Service of the Department of Health and Human Services.
State Plan means the document that describes the manner in which the State agency intends to administer the program in
the State.
Subdistributing agency means an agency or organization that has entered into an agreement with the State agency to
perform functions normally performed by the State, such as entering into agreements with eligible recipient agencies under
which commodities are made available, ordering commodities and/or making arrangements for the storage and delivery of such
commodities on behalf of eligible recipient agencies.
USDA implementing regulations include the following: 2 CFR part 400, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost
Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards; 2 CFR part 415, General Program Administrative Regulations; 2 CFR

part 416, General Program Administrative Regulations for Grants and Cooperative Agreements to State and Local
Governments; and 2 CFR part 418, New Restrictions on Lobbying.
WIC Program means the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 81 FR 66495, Sept. 28, 2016]

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§247.2 The purpose and scope of CSFP.
(a) How does CSFP help participants? Through CSFP, the Department provides nutritious commodities to help State and
local agencies meet the nutritional needs of low-income elderly persons. CSFP also helps State and local agencies meet the
nutritional needs of women, infants, and children who were certified and receiving CSFP benefits as of February 6, 2014.
Through local agencies, each participant receives a monthly package of commodities, based on food package guide rates
developed by FNS, with input from State and local agencies. Food packages include such nutritious foods as canned fruits and
vegetables, canned meat, poultry and other protein items, and grain products such as pasta, as well as other foods.
Participants are offered the opportunity to receive nutrition education.
(b) How many persons may be served in CSFP? State agencies may serve eligible persons up to the caseload limit
assigned to them by FNS. Caseload is the number of persons that may be served on an average monthly basis over the course
of the caseload cycle, which extends from January 1 through the following December 31.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38750, July 9, 2014]

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§247.3 Administering agencies.
(a) What agencies are responsible for administering CSFP? CSFP is administered at the Federal level by the Department's
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), which provides commodities, assigns caseload, and allocates administrative funds to State
agencies. State agencies are responsible for administering the program at the State level. The State agency may select local
agencies to administer the program in local areas of the State. The State agency must provide guidance to local agencies on all
aspects of program operations. The State agency may also select subdistributing agencies (e.g., another State agency, a local
governmental agency, or a nonprofit organization) to distribute or store commodities, or to perform other program functions on
behalf of the State agency. Local or subdistributing agencies may also select other agencies to perform specific program
functions (e.g., food distribution or storage), with the State agency's approval. Although the State agency may select other
organizations to perform specific activities, the State agency is ultimately responsible for all aspects of program administration.
(b) Are there specific functions that the State agency cannot delegate to another agency? Yes. The State agency may not
delegate the performance of the following functions to another agency:
(1) Establishing eligibility requirements, in accordance with the options provided to the State agency under §247.9; or
(2) Establishing a management review system and conducting reviews of local agencies, in accordance with §247.34.
(c) What Federal requirements must State, subdistributing, and local agencies follow in administering CSFP? State,
subdistributing, and local agencies must administer the program in accordance with the provisions of this part, and with the
provisions contained in part 250 of this chapter, unless they are inconsistent with the provisions of this part.
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§247.4 Agreements.
(a) What agreements are necessary for agencies to administer CSFP? The following agreements are necessary for
agencies to administer CSFP:
(1) Agreements between FNS and State agencies. Each State agency must enter into an agreement with FNS (Form FNS74, the Federal-State Agreement) prior to receiving commodities or administrative funds;
(2) Agreements between State agencies and local or subdistributing agencies. The State agency must enter into written
agreements with local or subdistributing agencies prior to making commodities or administrative funds available to them. The
agreements must contain the information specified in paragraph (b) of this section. Agreements between State and local
agencies must also contain the information specified in paragraph (c) of this section. Copies of all agreements must be kept on
file by the parties to the agreements; and
(3) Agreements between local and subdistributing agencies and other agencies. The State agency must ensure that local
and subdistributing agencies enter into written agreements with other agencies prior to making commodities or administrative
funds available to these other agencies. The agreements must contain the information specified in paragraph (b) of this section.
Copies of all agreements must be kept on file by the parties to the agreements.

(b) What are the required contents of agreements? All agreements described under paragraphs (a)(2) and (a)(3) of this
section must contain the following:
(1) An assurance that each agency will administer the program in accordance with the provisions of this part and with the
provisions of part 250 of this chapter, unless they are inconsistent with the provisions of this part;
(2) An assurance that each agency will maintain accurate and complete records for a period of three years from the close
of the fiscal year to which they pertain, or longer if the records are related to unresolved claims actions, audits, or investigations;
(3) A statement that each agency receiving commodities for distribution is responsible for any loss resulting from improper
distribution, or improper storage, care, or handling of commodities;
(4) A statement that each agency receiving program funds is responsible for any misuse of program funds;
(5) A description of the specific functions that the State, subdistributing, or local agency is delegating to another agency;
and
(6) A statement specifying:
(i) That either party may terminate the agreement by written notice to the other; and
(ii) The minimum number of days of advance notice that must be given. (The advance notification period must be at least
30 days.)
(c) What other assurances or information must be included in agreements between State and local agencies? In addition to
the requirements under paragraph (b) of this section, agreements between State and local agencies must contain the following:
(1) An assurance that the local agency will provide, or cause to be provided, nutrition education to participants, as required
in §247.18;
(2) An assurance that the local agency will provide information to participants on other health, nutrition, and public
assistance programs, and make referrals as appropriate, as required in §247.14;
(3) An assurance that the local agency will distribute commodities in accordance with the approved food package guide
rate;
(4) An assurance that the local agency will take steps to prevent and detect dual participation, as required in §247.19;
(5) The names and addresses of all certification, distribution, and storage sites under the jurisdiction of the local agency;
and
(6) An assurance that the local agency will not subject any person to discrimination under the program on the grounds of
race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability.
(d) What is the duration of required agreements? Agreements between FNS and State agencies are considered
permanent, but may be amended at the initiation of State agencies or at the request of FNS. All amendments must be approved
by FNS. The State agency establishes the duration of agreements it signs with local agencies or subdistributing agencies. The
State agency may establish, or permit the local or subdistributing agency to establish, the duration of agreements between local
or subdistributing agencies and other agencies. However, State and local agencies must comply with the requirements in
§250.12(c) of this chapter when entering agreements with other entities.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control numbers 0584-0067, 0584-0293)

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§247.5 State and local agency responsibilities.
State and local agencies are responsible for administering the program in accordance with the provisions of this part, and
with the provisions of part 250 of this chapter, as applicable. Although the State agency may delegate some responsibilities to
another agency, the State agency is ultimately responsible for all aspects of program administration. The following is an outline
of the major responsibilities of State and local agencies; it is not intended to be all-inclusive.
(a) What are the major responsibilities shared by State and local agencies? The major responsibilities shared by State and
local agencies include:
(1) Entering into required agreements;
(2) Ordering commodities for distribution;
(3) Storing and distributing commodities;

(4) Establishing procedures for resolving complaints about commodities;
(5) Complying with civil rights requirements;
(6) Maintaining accurate and complete records; and
(7) Conducting program outreach.
(b) What are the major State agency responsibilities? The major responsibilities of State agencies include:
(1) Completing and submitting the State Plan;
(2) Selecting local agencies to administer the program in local areas of the State;
(3) Determining caseload needs, and submitting caseload requests to FNS;
(4) Assigning caseload, and allocating administrative funds, to local agencies;
(5) Establishing eligibility requirements, in accordance with the options provided to the State agency under §247.9. (This
function may not be delegated to another agency.);
(6) Establishing nutritional risk criteria and a residency requirement for participants, if such criteria are to be used;
(7) Establishing a financial management system that effectively accounts for funds received for program administration;
(8) Developing a plan for the detection and prevention of dual participation, in coordination with CSFP local agencies and
with the WIC State agency, unless no women, infants, and children remain enrolled in CSFP in the State;
(9) Developing a plan for providing nutrition education to participants;
(10) Establishing appeals and fair hearing procedures for local agencies and program participants;
(11) Developing a management review system and conducting reviews of local agencies. (This function may not be
delegated to another agency.);
(12) Determining and pursuing claims, and establishing standards for pursuit of claims against participants;
(13) Ensuring compliance with Federal audit requirements;
(14) Providing guidance to local agencies, as needed; and
(15) Ensuring that program participation does not exceed the State agency's caseload allocation on an average monthly
basis.
(c) What are the major local agency responsibilities? The major local agency responsibilities include:
(1) Determining eligibility of applicants in accordance with eligibility criteria established by the State agency;
(2) Complying with fiscal and operational requirements established by the State agency;
(3) Ensuring that participation does not exceed the caseload assigned by the State agency;
(4) Issuing foods to participants in accordance with the established food package guide rates;
(5) Providing nutrition education and information on the availability of other nutrition and health assistance programs to
participants;
(6) Informing applicants of their rights and responsibilities in the program;
(7) Meeting the special needs of the homebound elderly, to the extent possible; and
(8) Pursuing claims against participants.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38750, July 9, 2014]

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§247.6 State Plan.
(a) What is the State Plan? The State Plan is a document that describes how the State agency will operate CSFP and the
caseload needed to serve eligible applicants. The State agency must submit the State Plan to FNS for approval. Once
submitted and approved, the State Plan is considered permanent, with amendments submitted at the State agency's initiative,

or at FNS request. All amendments are subject to FNS approval. The State Plan may be submitted in the format provided in
FNS guidance, in an alternate format, or in combination with other documents required by Federal regulations. The State Plan
must be signed by the State agency official responsible for program administration. A copy of the State Plan must be kept on file
at the State agency for public inspection.
(b) When must the State Plan be submitted? The State Plan must be submitted by August 15 to take effect for the fiscal
year beginning in the following October. FNS will provide notification of the approval or disapproval of the State Plan within 30
days of receipt, and will notify the State agency within 15 days of receipt if additional information is needed. Disapproval of the
Plan will include a reason for the disapproval. Approval of the Plan is a prerequisite to the assignment of caseload and
allocation of administrative funds, but does not ensure that caseload and funds will be provided.
(c) What must be included in the State Plan? The State Plan must include:
(1) The names and addresses of all local agencies and subdistributing agencies with which the State agency has entered
into agreement;
(2) The income eligibility standards to be used for women, infants, and children, if applicable, and the options to be used
relating to income or other eligibility requirements, as provided under §247.9;
(3) The nutritional risk criteria to be used, if the State chooses to establish such criteria;
(4) A description of plans for serving participants and the caseload needed to serve them;
(5) A description of plans for conducting outreach to the elderly;
(6) A description of the system for storing and distributing commodities;
(7) A description of plans for providing nutrition education to participants;
(8) A description of the means by which the State agency will detect and prevent dual participation, including, if applicable,
collaboration with the State WIC agency and a copy of the agreement signed with the State WIC agency to accomplish this;
(9) A description of the standards the State agency will use in determining if the pursuit of a claim against a participant is
cost-effective;
(10) A description of the means by which the State will meet the needs of the homebound elderly; and
(11) Copies of all agreements entered into by the State agency.
(d) When must the State agency submit amendments to the State Plan? The State agency must submit amendments to
FNS to reflect any changes in program operations or administration described in the State Plan, and to request additional
caseload for the following caseload cycle. FNS may also require that the State Plan be amended to reflect changes in Federal
law or policy. The State agency may submit amendments to the State Plan at any time during the fiscal year, for FNS approval.
The amendments will take effect immediately upon approval, unless otherwise specified by FNS. If a State agency would like to
receive additional caseload for the caseload cycle beginning the following January 1, it must submit an amendment to the Plan
which conveys the request for additional caseload by November 5. The State agency must also describe in this submission any
plans for serving participants at new sites. FNS action on the State agency's request for additional caseload is part of the
caseload assignment process, as described under §247.21.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38750, July 9, 2014]

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§247.7 Selection of local agencies.
(a) How does a local agency apply to participate in CSFP? Local agencies wishing to participate in CSFP must submit a
written application to the State agency. The application must describe how the local agency will operate the program and, for
nonprofit agencies, must include the agency's tax-exempt status. To be eligible to participate in CSFP, a nonprofit agency must
have tax-exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), or have applied for tax-exempt status with the Internal
Revenue Service (IRS), and be moving towards such status. Nonprofit agencies organized or operated exclusively for religious
purposes are automatically tax-exempt under the IRC. Nonprofit agencies required to obtain tax-exempt status must provide
documentation from the IRS that they have obtained such status, or have applied for it.
(b) On what basis does the State agency make a decision on the local agency's application? The State agency must
approve or disapprove the local agency's application based on, at minimum, the following criteria:
(1) The ability of the local agency to operate the program in accordance with Federal and State requirements;
(2) The need for the program in the projected service area of the local agency;

(3) The resources available (caseload and funds) for initiating a program in the local area; and
(4) For nonprofit agencies, the tax-exempt status, with appropriate documentation.
(c) What must the State agency do if a nonprofit agency approved for CSFP is subsequently denied tax-exempt status by
the IRS, or does not obtain this status within a certain period of time? In accordance with paragraph (a) of this section, the State
agency may approve a nonprofit agency that has applied to the IRS for tax-exempt status, and is moving toward compliance
with the requirements for recognition of tax-exempt status. However, if the IRS subsequently denies a participating agency's
application for recognition of tax-exempt status, the agency must immediately notify the State agency of the denial. The State
agency must terminate the agency's agreement and participation immediately upon notification. If documentation of recognition
of tax-exempt status is not received within 180 days of the effective date of the agency's approval to participate in CSFP, the
State agency must terminate the agency's participation until such time as recognition of tax-exempt status is obtained.
However, the State agency may grant an extension of 90 days if the agency demonstrates that its inability to obtain tax-exempt
status in the 180-day period is due to circumstances beyond its control.
(d) How much time does the State agency have to make a decision on the local agency's application? The State agency
must inform the local agency of approval or denial of the application within 60 days of its receipt. If the application is denied, the
State agency must provide a written explanation for the denial, along with notification of the local agency's right to appeal the
decision, in accordance with §247.35. If the application is approved, the State and local agency must enter into an agreement in
accordance with the requirements of §247.4.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)

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§247.8 Individuals applying to participate in CSFP.
(a) What information must individuals applying to participate in CSFP provide? To apply for CSFP benefits, the applicant or
caretaker of the applicant must provide the following information on the application:
(1) Name and address, including some form of identification for each applicant;
(2) Household income, except where the applicant is determined to be automatically eligible under §247.9(b)(1)(i) and (b)
(1)(ii);
(3) Household size, except where the applicant is determined to be automatically eligible under §247.9(b)(1)(i) and (b)(1)
(ii); and
(4) Other information related to eligibility, such as age.
(b) What else is required on the application form? The application form must include a nondiscrimination statement that
informs the applicant that program standards are applied without discrimination by race, color, national origin, age, sex, or
disability. After informing the applicant or caretaker of the applicant of his or her rights and responsibilities, in accordance with
§247.12, the local agency must ensure that the applicant or caretaker signs the application form beneath the following preprinted statement. The statement must be read by, or to, the applicant or caretaker before signing.
“This application is being completed in connection with the receipt of Federal assistance. Program officials may verify
information on this form. I am aware that deliberate misrepresentation may subject me to prosecution under applicable State
and Federal statutes. I am also aware that I may not receive both CSFP and WIC benefits simultaneously, and I may not
receive CSFP benefits at more than one CSFP site at the same time. Furthermore, I am aware that the information provided
may be shared with other organizations to detect and prevent dual participation. I have been advised of my rights and
obligations under the program. I certify that the information I have provided for my eligibility determination is correct to the best
of my knowledge.
I authorize the release of information provided on this application form to other organizations administering assistance programs for use in
determining my eligibility for participation in other public assistance programs and for program outreach purposes. (Please indicate decision by placing
a checkmark in the appropriate box.)
YES [ ]
NO [ ]”

(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38750, July 9, 2014]

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§247.9 Eligibility requirements.
(a) Who is eligible for CSFP? To be eligible for CSFP, individuals must be at least 60 years of age and meet the income
eligibility requirements outlined in paragraph (c) of this section; or the individual must be a woman, infant, or child who was

certified and receiving CSFP benefits as of February 6, 2014, and whose enrollment in CSFP has continued without
interruption.
(b) What are the income eligibility requirements for women, infants, and children? (1) The State agency must establish
household income limits that are at or below 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines published annually by the
Department of Health and Human Services, but not below 100 percent of these guidelines. However, the State agency must
accept as income-eligible, regardless of actual income, any applicant who is:
(i) Certified as eligible to receive food stamps under the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.), Temporary
Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) under Part A of Title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), or Medical
Assistance (i.e., Medicaid) under Title XIX of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.); or
(ii) A member of a family that is certified eligible to receive assistance under TANF, or a member of a family in which a
pregnant woman or an infant is certified eligible to receive assistance under Medicaid.
(2) The State agency may consider women, infants, and children participating in another Federal, State, or local food,
health, or welfare program as automatically eligible for CSFP if the income eligibility limits for the program are equal to or lower
than the established CSFP limits.
(3) For a pregnant woman, the State agency must count each embryo or fetus in utero as a household member in
determining if the household meets the income eligibility standards.
(4) The eligibility requirements in this section apply only to women, infants, and children who were certified and receiving
CSFP benefits as of February 6, 2014, and whose enrollment has continued without interruption. Effective February 7, 2014, no
new applications from women, infants, or children may be approved.
(c) What are the income eligibility requirements for elderly persons? The State agency must use a household income limit
at or below 130 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. Elderly persons in households with income at or below this
level must be considered eligible for CSFP benefits (assuming they meet other requirements contained in this part). However,
elderly persons certified before September 17, 1986 (i.e., under the three elderly pilot projects) must remain subject to the
eligibility criteria in effect at the time of their certification.
(d) When must the State agency revise the CSFP income guidelines to reflect the annual adjustments of the Federal
Poverty Income Guidelines? Each year, FNS will notify State agencies, by memorandum, of adjusted income guidelines by
household size at 185 percent, 130 percent, and 100 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. The memorandum will
reflect the annual adjustments to the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines issued by the Department of Health and Human
Services. The State agency must implement the adjusted guidelines for elderly applicants immediately upon receipt of the
memorandum. However, for the recertification of women, infants, and children, the State agency must implement the adjusted
guidelines at the same time that the WIC agency implements the adjusted guidelines in WIC.
(e) How is income defined and considered as it relates to CSFP eligibility? (1) Income means gross income before
deductions for such items as income taxes, employees' social security taxes, insurance premiums, and bonds.
(2) The State agency may exclude from consideration the following sources of income listed under the WIC regulations at
§246.7(d)(2)(iv) of this chapter:
(i) Any basic allowance for housing received by military services personnel residing off military installations; and
(ii) The value of inkind housing and other inkind benefits.
(3) The State agency must exclude from consideration all income sources excluded by legislation, which are listed in
§246.7(d)(2)(iv)(D) of this chapter. FNS will notify State agencies of any new forms of income excluded by statute through
program policy memoranda.
(4) The State agency may authorize local agencies to consider the household's average income during the previous 12
months and current household income to determine which more accurately reflects the household's status. In instances in
which the State makes the decision to authorize local agencies to determine a household's income in this manner, all local
agencies must comply with the State's decision and apply this method of income determination in situations in which it is
warranted.
(f) What other options does the State agency have in establishing eligibility requirements for CSFP? (1) The State agency
may require that an individual be at nutritional risk, as determined by a physician or by local agency staff.
(2) The State agency may require that an individual reside within the service area of the local agency at the time of
application for CSFP benefits. However, the State agency may not require that an individual reside within the area for any fixed
period of time.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38750, July 9, 2014]

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§247.10 Distribution and use of CSFP commodities.
(a) What are the requirements for distributing CSFP commodities to participants? The local agency must distribute a
package of commodities to participants each month, or a two-month supply of commodities to participants every other month, in
accordance with the food package guide rates established by FNS.
(b) What must the local agency do to ensure that commodities are distributed only to CSFP participants? The local agency
must require each participant, or participant's proxy, to present some form of identification before distributing commodities to
that person.
(c) What restrictions apply to State and local agencies in the distribution of CSFP commodities? State and local agencies
must not require, or request, that participants make any payments, or provide any materials or services, in connection with the
receipt of CSFP commodities. State and local agencies must not use the distribution of CSFP commodities as a means of
furthering the political interests of any person or party.
(d) What are the restrictions for the use of CSFP commodities? CSFP commodities may not be used for outreach,
refreshments, or for any purposes other than distribution to, and nutrition education for, CSFP participants.
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§247.11 Applicants exceed caseload levels.
(a) What must the local agency do if the number of applicants exceeds the local agency's caseload level? If all caseload
has been filled, the local agency must maintain a waiting list of individuals who apply for the program. In establishing the waiting
list, the local agency must include the date of application and information necessary to allow the local agency to contact the
applicant when caseload space becomes available. Unless they have been determined ineligible, applicants must be notified of
their placement on a waiting list within 10 days of their request for benefits in accordance with §247.15.
(b) What are the requirements for serving individuals on the waiting list once caseload slots become available? The local
agency must certify eligible individuals from the waiting list consistent with civil rights requirements at §247.37. For example, a
local agency may certify eligible individuals from the waiting list based on the date the application was received on a first-come,
first-served basis.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 75 FR 5879, Feb. 5, 2010]

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§247.12 Rights and responsibilities.
(a) What information regarding an individual's rights in CSFP must the local agency provide to the applicant? The local
agency is responsible for informing the applicant, orally or in writing, of the following:
(1) The local agency will provide notification of a decision to deny or terminate CSFP benefits, and of an individual's right to
appeal this decision by requesting a fair hearing, in accordance with §247.33(a);
(2) The local agency will make nutrition education available to all adult participants, and, if applicable, to parents or
caretakers of infant and child participants, and will encourage them to participate; and
(3) The local agency will provide information on other nutrition, health, or assistance programs, and make referrals as
appropriate.
(b) What information regarding an individual's responsibilities in CSFP must the local agency provide to the applicant? In
addition to the written statement required by §247.8(b), the local agency is responsible for informing the applicant, orally or in
writing, of the following:
(1) Improper use or receipt of CSFP benefits as a result of dual participation or other program violations may lead to a
claim against the individual to recover the value of the benefits, and may lead to disqualification from CSFP; and
(2) Participants must report changes in household income or composition within 10 days after the change becomes known
to the household.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38751, July 9, 2014]

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§247.13 Provisions for non-English or limited-English speakers.
(a) What must State and local agencies do to ensure that non-English or limited-English speaking persons are aware of
their rights and responsibilities in the program? If a significant proportion of the population in an area is comprised of nonEnglish or limited-English speaking persons with a common language, the State agency must ensure that local agencies inform

such persons of their rights and responsibilities in the program, as listed under §247.12, in an appropriate language. State and
local agencies must ensure that bilingual staff members or interpreters are available to serve these persons.
(b) What must State and local agencies do to ensure that non-English or limited-English speaking persons are aware of
other program information? If a significant proportion of the population in an area is comprised of non-English or limited-English
speaking persons with a common language, the State agency must ensure that local agencies provide other program
information, except application forms, to such persons in their appropriate language.
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§247.14 Other public assistance programs.
(a) What information on other public assistance programs must the local agency provide to women, infants, and children
applying for recertification? The local agency must provide CSFP applicants eligible for both CSFP and WIC with written
information on the WIC Program, to assist them in choosing the program in which they wish to participate. Additionally, the local
agency must provide women, infants, and children applicants with written information on the following nutrition, health, or public
assistance programs, and make referrals to these programs as appropriate:
(1) The Medicaid Program, which is the medical assistance program established under Title XIX of the Social Security Act
(42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.), and other health insurance programs for low-income households in the State. The State agency must
provide local agencies with materials showing the income standards utilized in the Medicaid Program;
(2) The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program under part A of Title IV of the Social Security Act (42
U.S.C. 601 et seq.);
(3) The Child Support Enforcement Program under part D of Title IV of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.); and
(4) The Food Stamp Program (7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.).
(b) What information on other public assistance programs must the local agency provide to elderly applicants? The local
agency must provide elderly applicants with written information on the following programs, and make referrals, as appropriate:
(1) Supplemental security income benefits provided under Title XVI of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.);
(2) Medical assistance provided under Title XIX of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.), including medical
assistance provided to a qualified Medicare beneficiary (42 U.S.C. 1395(p) and 1396d(5)); and
(3) The Food Stamp Program (7 U.S.C. 2011 et seq.).
(c) Is the value of CSFP benefits counted as income or resources for any other public assistance programs? No. The value
of benefits received in CSFP may not be considered as income or resources of participants or their families for any purpose
under Federal, State, or local laws, including laws relating to taxation and public assistance programs.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38751, July 9, 2014]

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§247.15 Notification of eligibility or ineligibility of applicant.
(a) What is the timeframe for notifying an applicant of eligibility or ineligibility for CSFP benefits? Local agencies must notify
applicants of their eligibility or ineligibility for CSFP benefits, or their placement on a waiting list, within 10 days from the date of
application.
(b) What must be included in the notification of eligibility or ineligibility? The notification of eligibility must include
information on the time, location, and means of food distribution, and the length of the certification period. Notification of
ineligibility must be in writing, and must include the reason the applicant is not eligible, a statement of the individual's right to a
fair hearing to appeal the decision, and a statement that informs the applicant that program standards are applied without
discrimination by race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability.
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§247.16 Certification period.
(a) How long is the certification period? (1) Women, infants, and children. For women, infants, and children, the State
agency must establish certification periods that may not exceed 6 months in length. However, pregnant women may be certified
to participate for the duration of their pregnancy and for up to six weeks post-partum. This paragraph only applies to the
recertification of women, infants, and children who were certified and receiving CSFP benefits as of February 6, 2014, and
whose enrollment in CSFP has continued without interruption.

(2) Elderly persons. For elderly persons, the State agency must establish certification periods that may not exceed 6
months in length. However, the State agency may authorize local agencies to extend the certification period without a formal
review of eligibility for additional 6-month periods, as long as the following conditions are met:
(i) The person's address and continued interest in receiving program benefits are verified; and
(ii) The local agency has sufficient reason to believe that the person still meets the income eligibility standards (e.g., the
elderly person has a fixed income).
(b) On what day of the final month does the certification period end? The certification period extends to the final day of the
month in which eligibility expires.
(c) Does the certification period end when a participant moves from the local area in which he or she was receiving
benefits? No. The State agency must ensure that local agencies serve a CSFP participant who moves from another area to an
area served by CSFP and whose certification period has not expired. The participant must be given the opportunity to continue
to receive CSFP benefits for the duration of the certification period. If the local agency has a waiting list, the participant must be
placed on its waiting list ahead of all other waiting applicants. The local agency that determined the participant's eligibility must
provide verification of the expiration date of the certification period to the participant upon request.
(d) What must the local agency do to ensure that participants are aware of the expiration of the certification period? The
local agency must notify program participants in writing at least 15 days before the expiration date that eligibility for the program
is about to expire. The local agency must include a statement in the written notification that informs the applicant that program
standards are applied without discrimination by race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 75 FR 5879, Feb. 5, 2010; 79 FR 38751, July 9, 2014]

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§247.17 Notification of discontinuance of participant.
(a) What must a local agency do if it has evidence that a participant is no longer eligible for CSFP benefits during the
certification period? If a local agency has evidence that a participant is no longer eligible for CSFP benefits during the
certification period, it must provide the participant with a written notification of discontinuance at least 15 days before the
effective date of discontinuance.
(b) What must a local agency do if it has to discontinue a participant from participation in the program prior to the end of the
certification period due to the lack of resources necessary to continue providing benefits to the participant? If a local agency
does not have sufficient resources, such as a sufficient number of caseload slots, to continue providing benefits to the
participant(s) for the entire certification period, it must provide the participant(s) with a written notification of discontinuance at
least 15 days before the effective date of discontinuance.
(c) What must be included in the notification of discontinuance? The notification of discontinuance must include the
effective date of discontinuance, the reason for the participant's discontinuance, a statement of the individual's right to appeal
the discontinuance through the fair hearing process, in accordance with §247.33(a), and a statement that informs the applicant
that program standards are applied without discrimination by race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability.
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§247.18 Nutrition education.
(a) What are the State agency's responsibilities in ensuring that nutrition education is provided? The State agency must
establish an overall nutrition education plan and must ensure that local agencies provide nutrition education to participants in
accordance with the plan. The State agency may allow local agencies to share personnel and educational resources with other
programs in order to provide the best nutrition education possible to participants. The State agency must establish an
evaluation procedure to ensure that the nutrition education provided is effective. The evaluation procedure must include
participant input and must be directed by a nutritionist or other qualified professional. The evaluation may be conducted by the
State or local agency, or by another agency under agreement with the State or local agency.
(b) What type of nutrition education must the local agency provide? The local agency must provide nutrition education that
can be easily understood by participants and is related to their nutritional needs and household situations. The local agency
must provide nutrition education that includes the following information, which should account for specific ethnic and cultural
characteristics whenever possible:
(1) The nutritional value of CSFP foods, and their relationship to the overall dietary needs of the population groups served;
(2) Nutritious ways to use CSFP foods;
(3) Special nutritional needs of participants and how these needs may be met;

(4) For pregnant and postpartum women, the benefits of breastfeeding;
(5) The importance of health care, and the role nutrition plays in maintaining good health; and
(6) The importance of the use of the foods by the participant to whom they are distributed, and not by another person.
(c) To whom must local agencies provide nutrition education? The local agency must make nutrition education available to
all adult participants and, if applicable, to parents or caretakers of infant and child participants. Local agencies are encouraged
to make nutrition education available to children, where appropriate.
(d) May CSFP foods be used in cooking demonstrations? Yes. The State or local agency, or another agency with which it
has signed an agreement, may use CSFP foods to conduct cooking demonstrations as part of the nutrition education provided
to program participants, but not for other purposes.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38751, July 9, 2014]

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§247.19 Dual participation.
(a) What must State and local agencies do to prevent and detect dual participation? Unless no women, infants, or children
remain enrolled in the program, the State agency must work with the State WIC agency to develop a plan to prevent and detect
dual participation, in accordance with an agreement signed by both agencies. The State agency must work with local agencies
to prevent and detect dual participation. In accordance with §247.8(a)(1), the local agency must check the identification of all
applicants when they are certified or recertified. In accordance with §247.8(b), the local agency must ensure that the applicant
or caretaker of the applicant signs an application form which includes a statement advising the applicant that he or she may not
receive CSFP benefits at more than one CSFP site at the same time.
(b) What must the local agency do if a CSFP participant is found to be committing dual participation? A participant found to
be committing dual participation must be discontinued from one of the programs (WIC or CSFP), or from participation at more
than one CSFP site. Whenever an individual's participation in CSFP is discontinued, the local agency must notify the individual
of the discontinuance, in accordance with §247.17. The individual may appeal the discontinuance through the fair hearing
process, in accordance with §247.33(a). In accordance with §247.20(b), if the dual participation resulted from the participant or
caretaker of the participant making false or misleading statements, or intentionally withholding information, the local agency
must disqualify the participant from CSFP, unless the local agency determines that disqualification would result in a serious
health risk. The local agency must also initiate a claim against the participant to recover the value of CSFP benefits improperly
received, in accordance with §247.30(c).
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38751, July 9, 2014]

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§247.20 Program violations.
(a) What are program violations in CSFP? Program violations are actions taken by CSFP applicants or participants, or
caretakers of applicants or participants, to obtain or use CSFP benefits improperly. Program violations include the following
actions:
(1) Intentionally making false or misleading statements, orally or in writing;
(2) Intentionally withholding information pertaining to eligibility in CSFP;
(3) Selling commodities obtained in the program, or exchanging them for non-food items;
(4) Physical abuse, or threat of physical abuse, of program staff; or
(5) Committing dual participation.
(b) What are the penalties for committing program violations? If applicants or participants, or caretakers of applicants or
participants, commit program violations, the State agency may require local agencies to disqualify the applicants or participants
for a period of up to one year. However, if the local agency determines that disqualification would result in a serious health risk,
the disqualification may be waived. For program violations that involve fraud, the State agency must require local agencies to
disqualify the participant from CSFP for a period of up to one year, unless the local agency determines that disqualification
would result in a serious health risk. The State agency must require local agencies to permanently disqualify a participant who
commits three program violations that involve fraud. For purposes of this program, fraud includes:
(1) Intentionally making false or misleading statements to obtain CSFP commodities;
(2) Intentionally withholding information to obtain CSFP commodities; or

(3) Selling CSFP commodities, or exchanging them for non-food items.
(c) What must the local agency do to notify the individual of disqualification from CSFP? The local agency must provide the
individual with written notification of disqualification from CSFP at least 15 days before the effective date of disqualification. The
notification must include the effective date and period of disqualification, the reason for the disqualification, and a statement that
the individual may appeal the disqualification through the fair hearing process, in accordance with §247.33(a).
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38751, July 9, 2014]

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§247.21 Caseload assignment.
(a) How does FNS assign caseload to State agencies? Each year, FNS assigns a caseload to each State agency to allow
persons meeting the eligibility criteria listed under §247.9 to participate in the program, up to the caseload limit. To the extent
that resources are available, FNS assigns caseload to State agencies in the following order:
(1) Base caseload. The State agency may not receive base caseload in excess of its total caseload assigned for the
previous caseload cycle. Base caseload is determined in the following manner:
(i) Each State agency entering its second year of program participation receives base caseload equal to the amount
assigned to it in its first year of participation; and
(ii) A State agency that has participated in two or more caseload cycles receives base caseload equal to the highest of:
(A) Average monthly participation for the previous fiscal year; or
(B) Average monthly participation for the last quarter of the previous fiscal year; or
(C) Participation during September of the previous fiscal year, but only if:
(1) The full-year appropriation for the preceding fiscal year was enacted on or after February 15; and
(2) The State agency received additional caseload equal to or greater than 10 percent of its base caseload in the previous
caseload cycle; and
(3) October participation in the current fiscal year was equal to or greater than 95 percent of September participation in the
previous fiscal year.
(2) Additional caseload. Each participating State agency may request additional caseload to increase program
participation. Eligibility for and assignment of additional caseload are determined in the following manner:
(i) A State agency entering its second year of program participation qualifies to receive additional caseload if the State
achieved a participation level which was equal to or greater than 95 percent of assigned caseload for the previous caseload
cycle, based on the highest of:
(A) Average monthly participation for the previous fiscal year; or
(B) Average monthly participation for the last quarter of the previous fiscal year; or
(C) Participation during September of the previous fiscal year, but only if:
(1) The full-year appropriation for the preceding fiscal year was enacted on or after February 15; and
(2) October participation in the current fiscal year was equal to or greater than 95 percent of September participation in the
previous fiscal year.
(ii) A State agency that has participated in two or more caseload cycles qualifies to receive additional caseload if the State
achieved a participation level which was equal to or greater than 95 percent of assigned caseload for the previous caseload
cycle, based on the highest of:
(A) Average monthly participation for the previous fiscal year; or
(B) Average monthly participation for the last quarter of the previous fiscal year; or
(C) Participation during September of the previous fiscal year, but only if:
(1) The full-year appropriation for the preceding fiscal year was enacted on or after February 15; and
(2) The State agency received additional caseload equal to or greater than 10 percent of its base caseload in the previous
caseload cycle; and

(3) October participation in the current fiscal year was equal to or greater than 95 percent of September participation in the
previous fiscal year.
(iii) Of each eligible State agency's request for additional caseload, FNS assigns an amount that it determines the State
needs and can efficiently utilize. In making this determination, FNS considers the factors listed below, in descending order of
importance. If all reasonable requests for additional caseload cannot be met, FNS assigns it to those States that are most likely
to utilize it. The factors are:
(A) The percentage of caseload utilized by the State in the previous fiscal year;
(B) Program participation trends in the State in previous fiscal years; and
(C) Other information provided by the State agency in support of the request.
(3) New caseload. Each State agency requesting to begin participation in the program, and with an approved State Plan,
may receive caseload to serve the elderly, as requested in the State Plan. Of the State agency's caseload request, FNS assigns
caseload in an amount that it determines the State needs and can efficiently utilize. This determination is made based on
information contained in the State Plan and on other relevant information. However, if all caseload requests cannot be met, FNS
will assign caseload to those States that are most likely to utilize it.
(b) When does FNS assign caseload to State agencies? FNS must assign caseload to State agencies by December 31 of
each year, or within 30 days after enactment of appropriations legislation covering the full fiscal year, whichever comes later.
Caseload assignments for the previous caseload cycle will remain in effect, subject to the availability of sufficient funding, until
caseload assignments are made for the current caseload cycle.
(c) How do State agencies request additional caseload for the next caseload cycle? In accordance with §247.6(d), a State
agency that would like additional caseload for the next caseload cycle (beginning the following January 1) must submit a
request for additional caseload by November 5, as an amendment to the State Plan. The State agency must also describe
plans for serving participants at new sites in this submission.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 75 FR 5879, Feb. 5, 2010; 79 FR 38751, July 9, 2014]

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§247.22 Allocation and disbursement of administrative funds to State agencies.
(a) What must State agencies do to be eligible to receive administrative funds? In order to receive administrative funds, the
State agency must have signed an agreement with FNS to operate the program, in accordance with §247.4(a)(1), and must
have an approved State Plan.
(b) How does FNS allocate administrative funds to State agencies? (1) As required by law, each fiscal year FNS allocates
to each State agency an administrative grant per assigned caseload slot, adjusted each year for inflation.
(2) For fiscal year 2003, the amount of the grant per assigned caseload slot was equal to the per-caseload slot amount
provided in fiscal year 2001, adjusted by the percentage change between:
(i) The value of the State and local government price index, as published by the Bureau of Economic Analysis of the
Department of Commerce, for the 12-month period ending June 30, 2001; and
(ii) The value of that index for the 12-month period ending June 30, 2002.
(3) For subsequent fiscal years, the amount of the grant per assigned caseload slot is equal to the amount of the grant per
assigned caseload slot for the preceding fiscal year, adjusted by the percentage change between:
(i) The value of the State and local government price index, as published by the Bureau of Economic Analysis of the
Department of Commerce, for the 12-month period ending June 30 of the second preceding fiscal year; and
(ii) The value of that index for the 12-month period ending June 30 of the preceding fiscal year.
(c) How do State agencies access administrative funds? FNS provides administrative funds to State agencies on a
quarterly basis. Such funds are provided by means of a Letter of Credit, unless other funding arrangements have been made
with FNS. The State agency obtains the funds by electronically accessing its Letter of Credit account.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)

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§247.23 State provision of administrative funds to local agencies.
(a) How much of the administrative funds must State agencies provide to local agencies for their use? The State agency
must provide to local agencies for their use all administrative funds it receives, except that the State agency may retain for its
own use the amount determined by the following formula:
(1) 15 percent of the first $50,000 received;
(2) 10 percent of the next $100,000 received;
(3) 5 percent of the next $250,000 received; and
(4) A maximum of $30,000, if the administrative grant exceeds $400,000.
(b) May a State agency request to retain more than the amount determined by the above formula in the event of special
needs? Yes, the State agency may request approval from FNS to retain a larger amount than is allowed under the formula
prescribed in paragraph (a) of this section. However, in making its request, the State agency must provide justification of the
need for the larger amount at the State level, and must ensure that local agencies will not suffer undue hardship as a result of a
reduction in administrative funds.
(c) How must the State agency distribute funds among local agencies? The State agency must distribute funds among
local agencies on the basis of their respective needs, and in a manner that ensures the funds will be used to achieve program
objectives.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)

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§247.24 Recovery and redistribution of caseload and administrative funds.
(a) May FNS recover and redistribute caseload and administrative funds assigned to a State agency? Yes. FNS may
recover and redistribute caseload and administrative funds assigned to a State agency during the fiscal year. FNS will
redistribute these resources to other State agencies in accordance with the provisions of §§247.21(a) and 247.22(b). In
reassigning caseload, FNS will use the most up-to-date data on participation and the extent to which caseload is being utilized,
as well as other information provided by State agencies. In accordance with §247.21(a)(2), in instances in which FNS recovers
caseload slots, the State agency must use 95 percent of its original caseload allocation to be eligible for additional caseload.
However, the State agency must not exceed its reduced caseload allocation on an average monthly basis.
(b) Is there a limit on the amount of caseload slots or administrative funds that FNS may recover? Yes. FNS will not
unilaterally recover caseload that would result in the recovery of more than 50 percent of the State's administrative funds.
However, in instances in which the State agency requests that FNS recover any portion of its assigned caseload, the 50percent limitation will not apply.
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§247.25 Allowable uses of administrative funds and other funds.
(a) What are allowable uses of administrative funds provided to State and local agencies? Administrative funds may be
used for costs that are necessary to ensure the efficient and effective administration of the program, in accordance with 2 CFR
part 200, subpart E and USDA implementing regulations 2 CFR part 400 and part 415, which set out the principles for
determining whether specific costs are allowable. Some examples of allowable costs in CSFP include:
(1) Storing, transporting, and distributing foods;
(2) Determining the eligibility of program applicants;
(3) Program outreach;
(4) Nutrition education;
(5) Audits and fair hearings;
(6) Monitoring and review of program operations; and
(7) Transportation of participants to and from the local agency, if necessary.
(b) What are unallowable uses of administrative funds? In addition to those costs determined to be unallowable by the
principles contained in the OMB circulars referenced in paragraph (a) of this section, specific examples of unallowable uses of
administrative funds in CSFP include:
(1) The cost of alteration of facilities not required specifically for the program; and

(2) Actual losses which could have been covered by permissible insurance (through an approved self-insurance program or
by other means).
(c) What costs are allowable only with prior approval of FNS? Capital expenditures, which include the acquisition of
facilities or equipment, or enhancements to such capital assets, with a cost per unit of at least $5,000, are allowable only with
prior approval of FNS. Examples of equipment include automated information systems, automated data processing equipment,
and other computer hardware and software.
(d) What procedures must State and local agencies use in procuring property, equipment, or services with program funds,
and disposing of such property or equipment? The procedures that State and local agencies must follow in procuring property,
equipment, or services with program funds, or disposing of such property or equipment, are contained in 2 CFR part 200,
subpart E, and USDA implementing regulations 2 CFR parts 400 and 415, which set out the principles for determining whether
specific costs are allowable. State, local, and Indian tribal governments must comply with 2 CFR part 200, subpart E, and USDA
implementing regulations 2 CFR parts 400 and 415, while nonprofit subgrantees must comply with 2 CFR part 200, subpart E,
and USDA implementing regulations 2 CFR parts 400 and 415. State and local agencies may use procurement procedures
established by State and local regulations as long as these procedures do not conflict with Federal regulations. Federal
regulations do not relieve State or local agencies from responsibilities established in contracts relating to procurement of
property, equipment, or services. The State agency is the responsible authority regarding the settlement of all contractual and
administrative issues arising out of procurements for the program.
(e) What is program income and how must State and local agencies use it? Program income is income directly generated
from program activities. It includes, for example, income from the sale of packing containers or pallets, and the salvage of
commodities. Program income does not include interest earned from administrative funds. State and local agencies must use
program income for allowable program costs, in accordance with 2 CFR part 200, subpart E, and USDA implementing
regulations 2 CFR parts 400 and 415.
(f) How must State and local agencies use funds recovered as a result of claims actions? The State agency must use funds
recovered as a result of claims actions against subdistributing or local agencies in accordance with the provisions of §250.15(c)
of this chapter. The State agency must use funds recovered as a result of claims actions against participants for allowable
program costs. The State agency may authorize local agencies to use such funds for allowable program costs incurred at the
local level.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 81 FR 66496, Sept. 28, 2016; 83 FR 14173, Apr. 3, 2018]

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§247.26 Return of administrative funds.
(a) Must State agencies return administrative funds that they do not use at the end of the fiscal year? Yes. If, by the end of
the fiscal year, a State agency has not obligated all of its allocated administrative funds, the unobligated funds must be returned
to FNS.
(b) What happens to administrative funds that are returned by State agencies at the end of the fiscal year? If, in the
following fiscal year, OMB reapportions the returned administrative funds, the funds are used to support the program. Such
funds are not returned to State agencies in the form of administrative funds in addition to the legislatively mandated grant per
assigned caseload slot.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)

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§247.27 Financial management.
(a) What are the Federal requirements for State and local agencies with regard to financial management? State and local
public agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations, must maintain a financial management system that complies with the
Federal regulations contained in 2 CFR part 200, subparts D and E, and USDA implementing regulations 2 CFR parts 400 and
415. The State agency's financial management system must provide accurate, current, and complete disclosure of the financial
status of the program, including an accounting of all program funds received and expended each fiscal year. The State agency
must ensure that local agencies develop and implement a financial management system that allows them to meet Federal
requirements.
(b) What are some of the major components of the State agency's financial management system? In addition to other
requirements, the State agency's financial management system must provide for:
(1) Prompt and accurate payment of allowable costs;
(2) Timely disbursement of funds to local agencies;
(3) Timely and appropriate resolution of claims and audit findings; and

(4) Maintenance of records identifying the receipt and use of administrative funds, funds recovered as a result of claims
actions, program income (as defined under §247.25(e)), and property and other assets procured with program funds.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 83 FR 14174, Apr. 3, 2018]

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§247.28 Storage and inventory of commodities.
(a) What are the requirements for storage of commodities? State and local agencies must provide for storage of
commodities that protects them from theft, spoilage, damage or destruction, or other loss. State and local agencies may
contract with commercial facilities to store and distribute commodities. The required standards for warehousing and distribution
systems, and for contracts with storage facilities, are included under §250.14 of this chapter.
(b) What are the requirements for the inventory of commodities? A physical inventory of all USDA commodities must be
conducted annually at each storage and distribution site where these commodities are stored. Results of the physical inventory
must be reconciled with inventory records and maintained on file by the State or local agency.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)

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§247.29 Reports and recordkeeping.
(a) What recordkeeping requirements must State and local agencies meet? State and local agencies must maintain
accurate and complete records relating to the receipt, disposal, and inventory of commodities, the receipt and disbursement of
administrative funds and other funds, eligibility determinations, fair hearings, and other program activities. State and local
agencies must also maintain records pertaining to liability for any improper distribution of, use of, loss of, or damage to
commodities, and the results obtained from the pursuit of claims arising in favor of the State or local agency. All records must be
retained for a period of three years from the end of the fiscal year to which they pertain, or, if they are related to unresolved
claims actions, audits, or investigations, until those activities have been resolved. All records must be available during normal
business hours for use in management reviews, audits, investigations, or reports of the General Accounting Office.
(b) What reports must State and local agencies submit to FNS? State agencies must submit the following reports to FNS:
(1) SF-425, Federal Financial Report. The State agency must submit the SF-425, Federal Financial Report, to report the
financial status of the program at the close of the fiscal year. This report must be submitted within 90 days after the end of the
fiscal year. Obligations must be reported for the fiscal year in which they occur. Revised reports may be submitted at a later
date, but FNS will not be responsible for reimbursing unpaid obligations later than one year after the end of the fiscal year in
which they were incurred.
(2) FNS-153, Monthly Report of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program and Quarterly Administrative Financial Status
Report. The State agency must submit the FNS-153 on a monthly basis. FNS may permit the data contained in the report to be
submitted less frequently, or in another format. The report must be submitted within 30 days after the end of the reporting
period. On the FNS-153, the State agency reports:
(i) The number of program participants in each population category (e.g., infants, children, and elderly);
(ii) The receipt and distribution of commodities, and beginning and ending inventories, as well as other commodity data;
and
(iii) On a quarterly basis, the cumulative amount of administrative funds expended and obligated, and the amount
remaining unobligated.
(3) FNS-191, Racial/Ethnic Group Participation. Local agencies must submit a report of racial/ethnic participation each
year, using the FNS-191.
(c) Is there any other information that State and local agencies must provide to FNS? FNS may require State and local
agencies to provide data collected in the program to aid in the evaluation of the effect of program benefits on the low-income
populations served. Any such requests for data will not include identification of particular individuals.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control numbers 0584-0025, 0584-0293)
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 72 FR 24184, May 2, 2007; 79 FR 38751, July 9, 2014]

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§247.30 Claims.
(a) What happens if a State or local agency misuses program funds? If FNS determines that a State or local agency has
misused program funds through negligence, fraud, theft, embezzlement, or other causes, FNS must initiate and pursue a claim

against the State agency to repay the amount of the misused funds. The State agency will be given the opportunity to contest
the claim. The State agency is responsible for initiating and pursuing claims against subdistributing and local agencies if they
misuse program funds.
(b) What happens if a State or local agency misuses program commodities? If a State or local agency misuses program
commodities, FNS must initiate a claim against the State agency to recover the value of the misused commodities. The
procedures for pursuing claims resulting from misuse of commodities are detailed in §250.15(c) of this chapter. Misused
commodities include commodities improperly distributed or lost, spoiled, stolen, or damaged as a result of improper storage,
care, or handling. The State agency is responsible for initiating and pursuing claims against subdistributing agencies, local
agencies, or other agencies or organizations if they misuse program commodities. The State agency must use funds recovered
as a result of claims for commodity losses in accordance with §250.15(c) of this chapter.
(c) What happens if a participant improperly receives or uses CSFP benefits through fraud? The State agency must ensure
that a local agency initiates a claim against a participant to recover the value of CSFP commodities improperly received or used
if the local agency determines that the participant or caretaker of the participant fraudulently received or used the commodities.
For purposes of this program, fraud includes intentionally making false or misleading statements, or intentionally withholding
information, to obtain CSFP commodities, or the selling or exchange of CSFP commodities for non-food items. The local
agency must advise the participant of the opportunity to appeal the claim through the fair hearing process, in accordance with
§247.33(a). The local agency must also disqualify the participant from CSFP for a period of up to one year, unless the local
agency determines that disqualification would result in a serious health risk, in accordance with the requirements of §247.20(b).
(d) What procedures must be used in pursuing claims against participants? The State agency must establish standards,
based on a cost-benefit review, for determining when the pursuit of a claim is cost-effective, and must ensure that local
agencies use these standards in determining if a claim is to be pursued. In pursuing a claim against a participant, the local
agency must:
(1) Issue a letter demanding repayment for the value of the commodities improperly received or used;
(2) If repayment is not made in a timely manner, take additional collection actions that are cost-effective, in accordance with
the standards established by the State agency; and
(3) Maintain all records regarding claims actions taken against participants, in accordance with §247.29.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38751, July 9, 2014]

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§247.31 Audits and investigations.
(a) What is the purpose of an audit? The purpose of an audit is to ensure that:
(1) Financial operations are properly conducted;
(2) Financial reports are fairly presented;
(3) Proper inventory controls are maintained; and
(4) Applicable laws, regulations, and administrative requirements are followed.
(b) When may the Department conduct an audit or investigation of the program? The Department may conduct an audit of
the program at the State or local agency level at its discretion, or may investigate an allegation that the State or local agency
has not complied with Federal requirements. An investigation may include a review of any State or local agency policies or
practices related to the specific area of concern.
(c) What are the responsibilities of the State agency in responding to an audit by the Department? In responding to an audit
by the Department, the State agency must:
(1) Provide access to any records or documents compiled by the State or local agencies, or contractors; and
(2) Submit a response or statement to FNS describing the actions planned or taken in response to audit findings or
recommendations. The corrective action plan must include time frames for implementation and completion of actions. FNS will
determine if actions or planned actions adequately respond to the program deficiencies identified in the audit. If additional
actions are needed, FNS will schedule a follow-up review and allow sufficient time for further corrective actions. The State
agency may also take exception to particular audit findings or recommendations.
(d) When is a State or local agency audit required? State and local agency audits must be conducted in accordance with
part 3052 of this title, which contains the Department's regulations pertaining to audits of States, local governments, and
nonprofit organizations. The value of CSFP commodities distributed by the agency or organization must be considered part of
the Federal award.

(e) What are the requirements for State or local agency audits? State and local agency audits must be conducted in
accordance with the requirements of part 3052 of this title, which contains the Department's regulations pertaining to audits of
States, local governments, and nonprofit organizations. The State agency must ensure that local agencies meet the audit
requirements. The State agency must ensure that all State or local agency audit reports are available for FNS review.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)

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§247.32 Termination of agency participation.
(a) When may a State agency's participation in CSFP be terminated? While paragraphs (a)(1), (a)(2), and (a)(3) of this
section, as applicable, describe the circumstances and basic procedures for terminating State agency programs, specific
actions and procedures relating to program termination are more fully described in 2 CFR part 200, subpart D, and USDA
implementing regulations 2 CFR parts 400 and 415.
(1) Termination by FNS. FNS may terminate a State agency's participation in CSFP, in whole or in part, if the State agency
does not comply with the requirements of this part. FNS must provide written notification to the State agency of termination,
including the reasons for the action, and the effective date.
(2) Termination by State agency. The State agency may terminate the program, in whole or in part, upon written notification
to FNS, stating the reasons and effective date of the action. In accordance with §247.4(b)(6), which relates to the termination of
agreements, either party must provide, at minimum, 30 days' written notice.
(3) Termination by mutual agreement. The State agency's program may also be terminated, in whole or in part, if both
parties agree the action would be in the best interest of the program. The two parties must agree upon the conditions of the
termination, including the effective date.
(b) When may a local agency's participation in CSFP be terminated? While paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(2), and (b)(3) of this
section, as applicable, describe the circumstances and basic procedures in termination of local agency programs, specific
actions and procedures relating to program termination are more fully described in 2 CFR part 200, subpart D, and USDA
implementing regulations 2 CFR parts 400 and 415.
(1) Termination by State agency. The State agency may terminate a local agency's participation in CSFP, or may be
required to terminate a local agency's participation, in whole or in part, if the local agency does not comply with the
requirements of this part. The State agency must notify the local agency in writing of the termination, the reasons for the action,
and the effective date, and must provide the local agency with an opportunity to appeal, in accordance with §247.35. (The local
agency may appeal the termination in accordance with §247.35.)
(2) Termination by local agency. The local agency may terminate the program, in whole or in part, upon written notification
to the State agency, stating the reasons and effective date of the action. In accordance with §247.4(b)(6), which relates to the
termination of agreements, either party must provide, at minimum, 30 days' written notice.
(3) Termination by mutual agreement. The local agency's program may also be terminated, in whole or in part, if both the
State and local agency agree that the action would be in the best interest of the program. The two parties must agree upon the
conditions of the termination, including the effective date.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 83 FR 14174, Apr. 3, 2018]

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§247.33 Fair hearings.
(a) What is a fair hearing? A fair hearing is a process that allows a CSFP applicant or participant to appeal an adverse
action, which may include the denial or discontinuance of program benefits, disqualification from the program, or a claim to
repay the value of commodities received as a result of fraud. State and local agencies must ensure that CSFP applicants and
participants understand their right to appeal an adverse action through the fair hearing process, which includes providing written
notification of the individual's right to a fair hearing along with notification of the adverse action. Such notification is not required
at the expiration of a certification period.
(b) What are the basic requirements the State agency must follow in establishing procedures to be used in fair hearings?
The State agency must establish simple, clear, uniform rules of procedure to be used in fair hearings, including, at a minimum,
the procedures outlined in this section. The State agency may use alternate procedures if approved by FNS. The rules of
procedure must be available for public inspection and copying.
(c) How may an individual request a fair hearing? An individual or an individual's caretaker may request a fair hearing by
making a clear expression, verbal or written, to a State or local agency official that an appeal of the adverse action is desired.
(d) How much time does an individual have to request a fair hearing? The State or local agency must allow an individual at
least 60 days from the date the agency mails or gives the individual the notification of adverse action to request a fair hearing.

(e) When may a State or local agency deny a request for a fair hearing? The State or local agency may deny a request for
a fair hearing when:
(1) The request is not received within the time limit established in paragraph (d) of this section;
(2) The request is withdrawn in writing by the individual requesting the hearing or by an authorized representative of the
individual; or
(3) The individual fails to appear, without good cause, for the scheduled hearing.
(f) Does the request for a fair hearing have any effect on the receipt of CSFP benefits? Participants who appeal the
discontinuance of program benefits within the 15-day advance notification period required under §§247.17 and 247.20 must be
permitted to continue to receive benefits until a decision on the appeal is made by the hearing official, or until the end of the
participant's certification period, whichever occurs first. However, if the hearing decision finds that a participant received
program benefits fraudulently, the local agency must include the value of benefits received during the time that the hearing was
pending, as well as for any previous period, in its initiation and pursuit of a claim against the participant.
(g) What notification must the State or local agency provide an individual in scheduling the hearing? The State or local
agency must provide an individual with at least 10 days' advance written notice of the time and place of the hearing, and must
include the rules of procedure for the hearing.
(h) What are the individual's rights in the actual conduct of the hearing? The individual must have the opportunity to:
(1) Examine documents supporting the State or local agency's decision before and during the hearing;
(2) Be assisted or represented by an attorney or other persons;
(3) Bring witnesses;
(4) Present arguments;
(5) Question or refute testimony or evidence, including an opportunity to confront and cross-examine others at the hearing;
and,
(6) Submit evidence to help establish facts and circumstances.
(i) Who is responsible for conducting the fair hearing, and what are the specific responsibilities of that person? The fair
hearing must be conducted by an impartial official who does not have any personal stake or involvement in the decision and
who was not directly involved in the initial adverse action that resulted in the hearing. The hearing official is responsible for:
(1) Administering oaths or affirmations, as required by the State;
(2) Ensuring that all relevant issues are considered;
(3) Ensuring that all evidence necessary for a decision to be made is presented at the hearing, and included in the record
of the hearing;
(4) Ensuring that the hearing is conducted in an orderly manner, in accordance with due process; and
(5) Making a hearing decision.
(j) How is a hearing decision made? The hearing official must make a decision that complies with Federal laws and
regulations, and is based on the facts in the hearing record. In making the decision, the hearing official must summarize the
facts of the case, specify the reasons for the decision, and identify the evidence supporting the decision and the laws or
regulations that the decision upholds. The decision made by the hearing official is binding on the State or local agency.
(k) What is the time limit for making a hearing decision and notifying the individual of the decision? A hearing decision must
be made, and the individual notified of the decision, in writing, within 45 days of the request for the hearing. The notification
must include the reasons for the decision.
(l) How does the hearing decision affect the individual's receipt of CSFP benefits? If a hearing decision is in favor of an
applicant who was denied CSFP benefits, the receipt of benefits must begin within 45 days from the date that the hearing was
requested, if the applicant is still eligible for the program. If the hearing decision is against a participant, the State or local
agency must discontinue benefits as soon as possible, or at a date determined by the hearing official.
(m) What must be included in the hearing record? In addition to the hearing decision, the hearing record must include a
transcript or recording of testimony, or an official report of all that transpired at the hearing, along with all exhibits, papers, and
requests made. The record must be maintained in accordance with §247.29(a). The record of the hearing must be available for
public inspection and copying, in accordance with the confidentiality requirements under §247.36(b).

(n) What further steps may an individual take if a hearing decision is not in his or her favor? If a hearing decision upholds
the State or local agency's action, and a State-level review or rehearing process is available, the State or local agency must
describe to the individual any State-level review or rehearing process. The State or local agency must also inform the individual
of the right of the individual to pursue judicial review of the decision.
[70 FR 47063, Aug. 11, 2005, as amended at 79 FR 38751, July 9, 2014]

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§247.34 Management reviews.
(a) What must the State agency do to ensure that local agencies meet program requirements and objectives? The State
agency must establish a management review system to ensure that local agencies, subdistributing agencies, and other
agencies conducting program activities meet program requirements and objectives. As part of the system, the State agency
must perform an on-site review of all local agencies, and of all storage facilities utilized by local agencies, at least once every
two years. As part of the on-site review, the State agency must evaluate all aspects of program administration, including
certification procedures, nutrition education, civil rights compliance, food storage practices, inventory controls, and financial
management systems. In addition to conducting on-site reviews, the State agency must evaluate program administration on an
ongoing basis by reviewing financial reports, audit reports, food orders, inventory reports, and other relevant information.
(b) What must the State agency do if it finds that a local agency is deficient in a particular area of program administration?
The State agency must record all deficiencies identified during the review and institute follow-up procedures to ensure that local
agencies and subdistributing agencies correct all deficiencies within a reasonable period of time. To ensure improved program
performance in the future, the State agency may require that local agencies adopt specific review procedures for use in
reviewing their own operations and those of subsidiaries or contractors. The State agency must provide copies of review reports
to FNS upon request.
(Approved by the Office of Management and Budget under control number 0584-0293)

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§247.35 Local agency appeals of State agency actions.
(a) What recourse must the State agency provide local agencies to appeal a decision that adversely affects their
participation in CSFP? The State agency must establish a hearing procedure to allow local agencies to appeal a decision that
adversely affects their participation in CSFP—e.g., the termination of a local agency's participation in the program. The adverse
action must be postponed until a decision on the appeal is made.
(b) What must the State agency include in the hearing procedure to ensure that the local agency has a fair chance to
present its case? The hearing procedure must provide the local agency:
(1) Adequate advance notice of the time and place of the hearing;
(2) An opportunity to review the record before the hearing, and to present evidence at the hearing;
(3) An opportunity to confront and cross-examine witnesses; and
(4) An opportunity to be represented by counsel, if desired.
(c) Who conducts the hearing and how is a decision on the appeal made? The hearing must be conducted by an impartial
person who must make a decision on the appeal that is based solely on the evidence presented at the hearing, and on program
legislation and regulations. A decision must be made within 60 days from the date of the request for a hearing, and must be
provided in writing to the local agency.
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§247.36 Confidentiality of applicants or participants.
(a) Can the State or local agency disclose information obtained from applicants or participants to other agencies or
individuals? State and local agencies must restrict the use or disclosure of information obtained from CSFP applicants or
participants to persons directly connected with the administration or enforcement of the program, including persons
investigating or prosecuting program violations. The State or local agency may exchange participant information with other
health or welfare programs for the purpose of preventing dual participation. In addition, with the consent of the participant, as
indicated on the application form, the State or local agency may share information obtained with other health or welfare
programs for use in determining eligibility for those programs, or for program outreach. However, the State agency must sign an
agreement with the administering agencies for these programs to ensure that the information will be used only for the specified
purposes, and that agencies receiving such information will not further share it.
(b) Can the State or local agency disclose the identity of persons making a complaint or allegation against another
individual participating in or administering the program? The State or local agency must protect the confidentiality, and other

rights, of any person making allegations or complaints against another individual participating in, or administering CSFP, except
as necessary to conduct an investigation, hearing, or judicial proceeding.
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§247.37 Civil rights requirements.
(a) What are the civil rights requirements that apply to CSFP? State and local agencies must comply with the requirements
of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d et seq.), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C.
1681 et seq.), section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794 et seq.), the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (42
U.S.C. 6101 et seq.), and titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.). State and local
agencies must also comply with the Department's regulations on nondiscrimination (parts 15, 15a, and 15b of this title), and
with the provisions of FNS Instruction 113-2, including the collection of racial/ethnic participation data and public notification of
nondiscrimination policy. State and local agencies must ensure that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national
origin, age, sex, or disability, be subjected to discrimination under the program.
(b) How does an applicant or participant file a complaint of discrimination? CSFP applicants or participants who believe
they have been discriminated against should file a discrimination complaint with the USDA Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room
326W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-9410, or telephone (202) 720-5964.
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