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Oklahoma has been chosen as one of five states to trial SNAP mobile payments

Oklahoma is one of five states to test mobile contactless SNAP payments by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS).

This new technology will enable SNAP customers in the state to pay for groceries by tapping or scanning their mobile devices at checkout in the coming years. Illinois, Louisiana, Massachusetts, and Missouri are among the additional states chosen.

SNAP Benefits Accessibility

Stacy Dean, the USDA deputy undersecretary for food, nutrition, and consumer services, stated, “Today’s announcement represents another step forward for the future of SNAP and the many ways our programs are adopting modern and innovative ideas to improve nutrition security.”

The use of digital wallets is altering how we pay for all goods and services, including food. We want to ensure that SNAP utilizes cutting-edge technology to improve access to benefits, reduce fraud, and enhance the experience for the families we serve.”

Officials assert that mobile payments are not only convenient for customers but also safer and more secure, reducing the likelihood of skimming and other fraudulent schemes.

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New Technologies Could Lessen Fraud Cases

oklahoma-has-been-chosen-as-one-of-five-states-to-trial-snap-mobile-payments
Oklahoma is one of five states to test mobile contactless SNAP payments by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS).

OKDHS financial administrator Tom Pennington stated, “Oklahoma is excited to be a pilot state in the effort to create a faster, more efficient, and more secure method of providing SNAP benefits to our state’s most vulnerable citizens.”

This effort not only reduces the risk of fraud by protecting customer accounts with multi-factor authentication, but it also reduces the stigma associated with SNAP benefits and promotes the dignity of our customers who are attempting to feed their families.

FNS provides states and stakeholders initiating mobile payment pilot projects with technical assistance and coordination efforts.

Retailers and SNAP customers in Oklahoma have the option of voluntarily participating in the pilot program or continuing to use EBT cards.

As part of FNS’ ongoing SNAP modernization efforts, Oklahoma Human Services is excited to participate in the mobile payment pilot.

Other initiatives include the expansion of SNAP online shopping to many of Oklahoma’s major grocery stores, including those in rural areas, as well as the implementation of new EBT card technologies and safeguards.

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