SNAP E&T Plan Amendment

STATE NAME	STATE CODE	FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR	VERSION
Montana	MT	2026	Amendment 1

Name	E-mail
Leah Burnham	leah.burnham@mt.gov

AMENDMENT LOG

In accordance with 7 CFR 273.7(c)(8), State agencies must submit plan revisions to the appropriate FNS Regional office for approval if it plans to make a change. For a complete list of situations requiring an Amendment to the E&T State plan, see Plan Modifications in the E&T State Plan Handbook. The State agency must submit the proposed changes for approval at least 30 days prior to the planned implementation.

Please use the log to document the submission of an amended plan. A single line in the log should capture each time a plan is amended and resubmitted, not each individual amendment change throughout the plan. To expedite the review process for amendment changes, please describe sections where text has been added or changed.

Amendment Number	Brief description of changes or purpose for Amendment (If Amendment includes budget changes, include in description)	List specific sections of Plan changed	Date Submitted to FNS	Date Approved by FNS
1	Montana was able to secure additional 50% administrative funding. Montana originally requested $315,000 and is now requesting an additional $228,674 for a total state 50% admin reimbursement of $543,674.	Contracts- Maximus; Budget & Funding.	09/17/2025

ACRONYMS

State agencies may consider including acronyms for the SNAP State agency, SNAP E&T program name, State's management information system, and SNAP E&T providers or contractors.

The below list includes common acronyms utilized within this plan.

Acronym	Definition
ABAWD	Able-Bodied Adult without Dependents
CAPNW	Community Action Partnerships of Northwest Montana
CHIMES	Combined Healthcare Information and Montana Eligibility System
DPHHS	Department of Public Health and Human Services
E&T	Employment and Training
FNS	Food and Nutrition Service
FY	Fiscal Year
GA	General Assistance
HRDC	Human Resources Development Council
ITO	Indian Tribal Organization
OPA	Office of Public Assistance
SNAP	Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
TANF	Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
USDA	United States Department of Agriculture
WIOA	Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

SUMMARY OF PROGRAM

Provide the vision and mission of the State E&T program. In addition, describe how your State agency's E&T program meets the purpose of E&T which is to:

Increase the ability of SNAP participants to obtain regular employment
Meet State or local workforce needs

The vision of the Montana SNAP E&T program is to help SNAP participants gain the skills, training, or work experience necessary to increase their ability to obtain employment that leads to economic self-sufficiency.
The mission of Montana’s SNAP E&T is to provide participants with individualized case management services to achieve the individual’s goal of self-sufficiency through employment and/or training, and to successfully transition off public assistance.
Montana is meeting state and/or local workforce needs by providing SNAP E&T participants with the training and support needed to become employed in midlevel skills employment with wages higher than $10.55 per hour, Montana’s state minimum wage.

Is the State’s E&T program administered at the State or county level?

	State
	County

Provide the web addresses (URLs) of State E&T policy resources used such as handbooks and State administrative code, if available. Enter a single URL per row.

URL	Resource Type
Link to resource	Policy Manual

PROGRAM CHANGES

Summarize changes for the upcoming Federal fiscal year (FY) from the prior FY. Significant changes may include new initiatives, changes in funding or funding sources, policy changes, or significant changes to the number of partners or participants. Significant changes could include those made as a result of management evaluation findings or participation in program improvement initiatives, such as SNAP to Skills. It is not necessary to include changes made as a result of new Federal rulemaking.

Montana will be adding on new third-party partnerships throughout FFY2026 to enhance stability and sustainability in funding. The six-month time limit for participation from previous state plans will be eliminated in FFY2026. The monthly time requirement for non-ABAWDS will be reduced from 80 hours to 12 hours monthly in FFY2026. Additionally, participant reimbursement caps will be raised specifically for education-related activities.

Highlight any changes from above that the State agency is making to the E&T program based on the prior year’s performance, for instance changes made as a result of E&T outcome and participation data.

The six-month time limit for participation from previous state plans will be eliminated in FFY2026 to encourage increased participation in educational programs, many of which are longer than 6 months. The monthly time requirement for non-ABAWDS will be reduced from 80 hours to 12 hours monthly to reduce barriers to participation among non-ABAWDS who want to participate and improve their self-sufficiency. Additionally, as a way to encourage participation in education-related activities leading to higher wages, education-related participant reimbursement caps will be raised specifically for the vocational component to align with increased costs for tuition, certifications, etc.

CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION WITH THE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM

State agencies must design the E&T program in consultation with the State workforce development board and operate the E&T program through the statewide workforce development system (7 CFR 273.7(c)(5)). The goal of this section is to explain the relationship between the State agency and other organizations it plans to consult and coordinate with for the provision of services, including organizations in the statewide workforce development system. The statewide workforce development system refers to a network of providers, which may include government and the public sector; community-based organizations and non-profits; employers and industry; occupational training providers; and post-secondary institutions, such as community colleges. Please note the State workforce development board is an entity that establishes Regional strategic plans and sets funding priorities for their area. They are distinct from State workforce agencies.

Consultation

Consultation with the workforce development system generally includes discussions to learn about services provided in the community and how each organization functions and coordinates with others in the community. State agencies can demonstrate they consulted with their State workforce development board by noting the dates of conversations, who they spoke with, what they spoke about, and how they incorporated this information into the design of their E&T program.

Did the State agency consult the State workforce development board?

	Yes
	No

Describe how the State agency consulted with the State workforce development board in designing its SNAP E&T program. Include the names, dates and outcomes of the consultation.

Date	State Workforce Development Board Name	Title(s) of Person Consulted	Outcome of Consultation
04/04/2025	Department of Labor and Industry State Workforce Innovation Board	Department of Labor and Industry	This collaboration is being used to influence and bolster employment opportunities for clients participating in the SNAP E&T program. Additionally, these meetings provide: (1) resources and guidance for identifying qualifying training opportunities, (2) identifying urgent employer needs for individuals entering the workforce, (3) potentially identifying and establishing relationships with Maximus, and (4) obtain information necessary to create structured training curricula. Throughout these conversations, DPHHS promotes and educates all parties on SNAP and the SNAP E&T programs.

Coordination

Coordination with the workforce development system consists of efforts to partner with workforce providers to directly serve SNAP E&T participants or to align the flow or types of services offered across programs.

Describe any special State initiatives (i.e. Governor-initiated or through State legislation) that include SNAP E&T. Describe any efforts taken by the State agency to coordinate these programs, services, partners, and/or activities with the State's E&T program.

None

Describe the extent to which the State agency is carrying out SNAP E&T programs in coordination with title I programs under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

According to Montana’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) State Plan, the health care industry is expected to have the highest job demands, annual growth of 1,240 jobs through 2027.

Maximus assists and supports SNAP E&T participants whose employment goals are to begin a career pathway in the health care industry through the vocational education component. SNAP E&T participants may attend Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Medical Administrative Specialist and Phlebotomy trainings.

Maximus works with local employers and employment agencies to locate employment opportunities for SNAP E&T participants and to better understand the staffing, skills, and training needs for local employment opportunities. This information is passed on to the SNAP E&T participant during their case management meetings to assist in accomplishing the SNAP E&T participant’s goals of self-sufficiency.
Maximus also partners with the workforce system at the state and local level and work together to promote integrated services for mutual clients. By co- enrolling SNAP E&T participants in WIOA to braid funding and further aid participant’s goals. For example: WIOA funds may be used to pay for a CNA class and SNAP E&T funds may be used to provide a uniform and books required for the class.

Is SNAP E&T included as a partner in the State's WIOA Combined Plan?

	Yes
	No

Describe how the State agency is coordinating with TANF/GA programs, services, partners, and/or activities. Describe any TANF/GA special initiatives targeting specific populations and any actions taken to coordinate with these efforts.

Maximus verifies that SNAP E&T participants are not receiving TANF cash. However, Maximus also houses TANF/Pathways program staff and when a participant is no longer participating in TANF cash program and is receiving SNAP then a reverse referral is made for the participant to request a referral from the SNAP eligibility staff to participate in SNAP E&T.

Describe how the State agency is coordinating its SNAP E&T program with any other Federal or State employment program (e.g. HUD, child support, re-entry, refugee services).

Montana is working with the Matching Grant Employment and Training Program, administered by International Rescue Committee (IRC) and the Montana Refugee Support Services Employment and Training Program administered by MT DPHHS Refugee Support Services (RSS) Contractors: Maximus and its subcontractors, International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Missoula, and Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains (LFSRM) in Billings. SNAP recipients will be exempt from work registration if verified to be participating in the Matching Grant Employment and Training Program.

CONSULTATION WITH INDIAN TRIBAL ORGANIZATIONS (ITOs)

State agencies are required to consult with Tribes about the SNAP State Plan of Operations, which includes the E&T State Plan, per 7 CFR 272.2(b) and 272.2(e)(7). The consultations must pertain to the unique needs of Tribal members. State agencies are required to document the availability of E&T programs for Tribal members living on reservations in accordance with 7 CFR 273.7(c)(6)(xiii). The goal of this section is to describe how the State agency consulted with Indian Tribal Organizations (ITOs), describe the results of the consultation, and document the availability of E&T programs for Tribal members living on reservations.

Did the State agency consult with ITOs in the State?

	Yes
	Yes, but not all ITOs
	No
	There are no ITOs in my State

List the ITOs consulted and describe the outcomes of the consultation(s). Provide specific examples of how the State agency incorporated feedback from ITOs into the design of the E&T program (e.g. unique supportive service, new component, in-demand occupation). Include the title of the person you consulted and the date.

Date	Name of ITO	Title(s) of Person Consulted	Outcome of Consultation
06/25/2025	Chippewa Cree	Chairman	One consultation for all Montana ITOs was held virtually on June 25, 2025, via Teams Meeting. Topics included SNAP services in Montana including application process, access issues regarding the Public Assistance Helpline (PAHL) and using SNAP for online grocery shopping, ABAWDs, SNAP E&T and SNAP-Ed. Highlights of the FFY2025 SNAP E&T plan were discussed and it was explained that some components may be adjusted for the next plan, feedback from ITOs was requested. SNAP E&T supportive services and E&T counties were discussed. The state plan was sent to each ITO with request for plan feedback within 30 days.
06/25/2025	Confederated Salish Kootenai Tribe	Chairman	One consultation for all Montana ITOs was held virtually on June 25, 2025, via Teams Meeting. Topics included SNAP services in Montana including application process, access issues regarding the Public Assistance Helpline (PAHL) and using SNAP for online grocery shopping, ABAWDs, SNAP E&T and SNAP-Ed. Highlights of the FFY2025 SNAP E&T plan were discussed and it was explained that some components may be adjusted for the next plan, feedback from ITOs was requested. SNAP E&T supportive services and E&T counties were discussed. The state plan was sent to each ITO with request for plan feedback within 30 days.
06/25/2025	Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians	Chairman	One consultation for all Montana ITOs was held virtually on June 25, 2025, via Teams Meeting. Topics included SNAP services in Montana including application process, access issues regarding the Public Assistance Helpline (PAHL) and using SNAP for online grocery shopping, ABAWDs, SNAP E&T and SNAP-Ed. Highlights of the FFY2025 SNAP E&T plan were discussed and it was explained that some components may be adjusted for the next plan, feedback from ITOs was requested. SNAP E&T supportive services and E&T counties were discussed. The state plan was sent to each ITO with request for plan feedback within 30 days.
06/25/2025	Crow Tribe	Chairman	One consultation for all Montana ITOs was held virtually on June 25, 2025, via Teams Meeting. Topics included SNAP services in Montana including application process, access issues regarding the Public Assistance Helpline (PAHL) and using SNAP for online grocery shopping, ABAWDs, SNAP E&T and SNAP-Ed. Highlights of the FFY2025 SNAP E&T plan were discussed and it was explained that some components may be adjusted for the next plan, feedback from ITOs was requested. SNAP E&T supportive services and E&T counties were discussed. The state plan was sent to each ITO with request for plan feedback within 30 days.
06/25/2025	Gros Ventre	President	One consultation for all Montana ITOs was held virtually on June 25, 2025, via Teams Meeting. Topics included SNAP services in Montana including application process, access issues regarding the Public Assistance Helpline (PAHL) and using SNAP for online grocery shopping, ABAWDs, SNAP E&T and SNAP-Ed. Highlights of the FFY2025 SNAP E&T plan were discussed and it was explained that some components may be adjusted for the next plan, feedback from ITOs was requested. SNAP E&T supportive services and E&T counties were discussed. The state plan was sent to each ITO with request for plan feedback within 30 days.
06/25/2025	Assiniboine	President	One consultation for all Montana ITOs was held virtually on June 25, 2025, via Teams Meeting. Topics included SNAP services in Montana including application process, access issues regarding the Public Assistance Helpline (PAHL) and using SNAP for online grocery shopping, ABAWDs, SNAP E&T and SNAP-Ed. Highlights of the FFY2025 SNAP E&T plan were discussed and it was explained that some components may be adjusted for the next plan, feedback from ITOs was requested. SNAP E&T supportive services and E&T counties were discussed. The state plan was sent to each ITO with request for plan feedback within 30 days.
06/25/2025	Blackfeet	Chairman	One consultation for all Montana ITOs was held virtually on June 25, 2025, via Teams Meeting. Topics included SNAP services in Montana including application process, access issues regarding the Public Assistance Helpline (PAHL) and using SNAP for online grocery shopping, ABAWDs, SNAP E&T and SNAP-Ed. Highlights of the FFY2025 SNAP E&T plan were discussed and it was explained that some components may be adjusted for the next plan, feedback from ITOs was requested. SNAP E&T supportive services and E&T counties were discussed. The state plan was sent to each ITO with request for plan feedback within 30 days.
06/25/2025	Northern Cheyenne	President	One consultation for all Montana ITOs was held virtually on June 25, 2025, via Teams Meeting. Topics included SNAP services in Montana including application process, access issues regarding the Public Assistance Helpline (PAHL) and using SNAP for online grocery shopping, ABAWDs, SNAP E&T and SNAP-Ed. Highlights of the FFY2025 SNAP E&T plan were discussed and it was explained that some components may be adjusted for the next plan, feedback from ITOs was requested. SNAP E&T supportive services and E&T counties were discussed. The state plan was sent to each ITO with request for plan feedback within 30 days.

Will the State agency be seeking enhanced reimbursement for E&T services (75%) for ITO members who are residents of reservations, either on or off the reservation?

	Yes
	No

UTILIZATION OF STATE OPTIONS

State agencies have the flexibility to implement policy options to adapt and meet the unique needs of State populations. Check which options the State agency will implement.

Does the State agency offer an E&T program statewide?

	Yes
	No

Indicate the type of E&T program the State agency operates.

	Mandatory per 7 CFR 273.7(e)
	Voluntary per 7 CFR 273.7(e)(5)(i)
	Combination of mandatory and voluntary

Indicate which counties offer an E&T program.

County Name	County Name	County Name
Beaverhead County	Granite County	Powell County
Big Horn County	Hill County	Prairie County
Blaine County	Jefferson County	Ravalli County
Broadwater County	Judith Basin County	Richland County
Carbon County	Lake County	Roosevelt County
Carter County	Lewis and Clark County	Rosebud County
Cascade County	Liberty County	Sanders County
Chouteau County	Lincoln County	Sheridan County
Custer County	Madison County	Silver Bow County
Daniels County	McCone County	Stillwater County
Dawson County	Meagher County	Sweet Grass County
Deer Lodge County	Mineral County	Teton County
Fallon County	Missoula County	Toole County
Fergus County	Musselshell County	Treasure County
Flathead County	Park County	Valley County
Gallatin County	Petroleum County	Wheatland County
Garfield County	Phillips County	Wibaux County
Glacier County	Pondera County	Yellowstone County
Golden Valley County	Powder River County

Does the State agency serve the following populations? Select all that apply.

	Applicants per 7 CFR 273.7(e)(2)
	Exempt members of zero benefit households that volunteer for SNAP E&T per 7 CFR 273.10(e)(2)(iii)(B)(7)
	Categorically eligible households per 7 CFR 273.2(j)

Does the State agency enable ABAWDs to regain SNAP eligibility through E&T and verify that the ABAWD will meet the work requirement within 30 days?

	Yes
	No

CHARACTERISTICS OF INDIVIDUALS SERVED BY E&T

State agencies are required to include information about the categories and types of individuals they plan to exempt from mandatory E&T participation (7 CFR 273.7 (c)(6)(iv)), as well as the characteristics of the population they plan to place in E&T (7 CFR 273.7 (c)(6)(v)).

What are the characteristics of the population the State agency intends to serve in E&T (e.g. target population)? This question applies to both mandatory and voluntary participants.

	ABAWDs
	Homeless
	Veterans
	Students
	Single parents
	Returning citizens (aka: ex-offenders)
	Underemployed
	Those that reside in rural areas

Estimated Participant Levels

Project participation in E&T for the upcoming Federal fiscal year. In determining the estimated participation, it is important to be as accurate as possible. As appropriate, projections should be based upon actual figures from the current Federal fiscal year.

QUESTION	RESPONSE FIELD
Anticipated number of work registrants	20,435

State Exemptions

List State exemptions from E&T and the participation, such as individuals to be exempted under each category.

EXEMPTION	TOTAL INDIVIDUALS
Montana has all voluntary E&T programs and exempts all work registrants.	20,435

QUESTION	RESPONSE FIELD
Total estimated number of work registrants exempt from mandatory E&T	20,435
Percent of all work registrants exempt from E&T	100.00%

ABAWDs

QUESTION	RESPONSE FIELD
Anticipated number of ABAWDs in the State	10,000
Anticipated number of ABAWDs in waived areas of the State	3,974
Anticipated number of ABAWDs to be exempted under the State’s ABAWD discretionary exemption allowance	2,000
Anticipated number of ABAWDs in the State who meet the criteria under 7 CFR 273.7(d)(3)(i)	4,026

E&T Participants

QUESTION	RESPONSE FIELD
Anticipated number of mandatory E&T participants	0
Anticipated number of voluntary E&T participants	539
Total anticipated number of E&T participants	539
Anticipated number of ABAWDs to be served in E&T	215

How frequently will the State plan to re-evaluate these exemptions from mandatory E&T?

	Annually
	Bi-annually
	Other

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

State agencies are required to include information on the organizational relationship between the units responsible for certification and the units operating the E&T components, including units of the statewide workforce development system, if available. For the purposes of the questions below, E&T providers are considered to include units of the statewide workforce development system. FNS is specifically interested in ensuring that the lines of communication are efficient and that, if applicable, noncompliance with mandatory E&T is reported to the certification unit within 10 working days after the noncompliance occurs, per 7 CFR 273.7(c)(4). State agencies must also include information on the relationship between the State agency and other organizations it plans to coordinate with for the provision of services.

The following questions are about how the E&T program is structured in your State agency.

Indicate which division within the SNAP State agency is responsible for the E&T program. (i.e. establishes E&T policy, contracts for E&T services, monitors providers). For example, explain if the E&T program unit is separate from the SNAP certification unit, and if there are separate E&T units at the county level.

Montana’s SNAP E&T program policy contracts for E&T services, and monitoring is provided by the SNAP E&T Coordinator and Food Security Program and Compliance Supervisor statewide as a separate unit from the SNAP eligibility unit. SNAP E&T services are provided through Maximus who provides E&T services directly to Deer Lodge, Gallatin, Lewis & Clark, Missoula, Silver Bow, and Ravalli Counties. Maximus also subcontracts E&T services at the county level with E&T services providers in Big Horn, Yellowstone, Flathead, Lincoln, Fergus, Petroleum, Musselshell, Golden Valley, Wheatland, and Judith Basin Counties.

How does the E&T unit coordinate and communicate on an ongoing basis with the units responsible for certification policy?

The SNAP E&T Coordinator shares information with the Food Security Program and Compliance Supervisor and develops, updates and/or changes in SNAP E&T policy. SNAP E&T policy changes that affect eligibility and referral are included in the SNAP policy manual and SNAP business process manual. Changes are communicated to eligibility staff via email, SNAP Policy, and SNAP Business Process manuals, and/or training updates.

Describe the State's relationships and communication with intermediaries or E&T providers.

The SNAP E&T Coordinator has open communication with Maximus the SNAP E&T contractor. If needed, Maximus passes information on to the SNAP E&T sub-contractors within Big Horn, Yellowstone (HRDC7), Flathead, Lincoln (CAPNW), and Fergus, Petroleum, Musselshell, Golden Valley, Wheatland, and Judith Basin counties (HRDC6). Maximus has view only access to Montana’s CHIMES system and the state document management system Perceptive. SNAP E&T case managers can determine that participants have been determined SNAP eligible at referral and monthly. This access reduces errors of participants receiving benefits they are not entitled to.

If errors or concerns are discovered, the E&T case managers working for Maximus and the E&T case managers working with the sub-contractors, communicates with the Maximus supervisor who then communicate directly with the SNAP E&T Coordinator via email, TEAMS meeting or phone call.

Maximus notifies SNAP eligibility staff of a participant’s status by emailing the Employment and Training Participant Status form (DPHHS-HCS/SNAP-010) within 10 days of a participants change in status.
• Participant enrolled in SNAP E&T program and is actively participating in a qualifying component.
• Participant is no longer participating in a qualifying component in the SNAP E&T program.
• Participant participated in SNAP E&T program for 80 hours in a 30 consecutive day period (more than 40 hours in a qualifying component).
• Participant is not suited for SNAP E&T (Provider Determination), reassess for other ABAWD exemptions.

Describe how the State agency shares new policies, procedures, or other information with the intermediary or other E&T provider.

SNAP E&T Coordinator conducts bi-weekly meeting with Maximus. SNAP E&T Coordinator will also meet with Maximus when needed for updates on SNAP E&T policies and procedures. The E&T Coordinator will work with Maximus to ensure quarterly meetings are provided to conduct trainings on topics such as referrals, client status forms, Civil Rights, provider determinations, participant activities, counting participant hours, reporting measures and tracking.

Montana maintains and revises the SNAP E&T Contractors Handbook which contains SNAP E&T policies and procedures. Once revised the handbook is emailed to Maximus. Montana’s SNAP E&T Coordinator also maintains open communication through email, phone calls, and additional meetings if needed.

Describe how the State agency, intermediaries, and E&T providers share participant data and information. Include the names of any MIS systems (or other modes of communication) used.

The SNAP E&T Coordinator has open communication with Maximus the SNAP E&T contractor. If needed, Maximus passes information on to the SNAP E&T sub-contractors within Big Horn, Yellowstone (HRDC7), Flathead and Lincoln Counties (CAPNW), and Fergus, Petroleum, Musselshell, Golden Valley, Wheatland, and Judith Basin counties (HRDC6). Maximus has view only access to Montana’s CHIMES system and the state document management system Perceptive. SNAP E&T case managers can determine that participants have been determined SNAP eligible at referral and monthly. This access reduces errors of participants receiving benefits they are not entitled to.

If errors or concerns are discovered, the E&T case managers working for Maximus and the E&T case managers working with the sub-contractors, communicates with the Maximus supervisor who then communicate directly with the SNAP E&T Coordinator via email, TEAMS meeting or phone call.

Maximus notifies SNAP eligibility staff of a participant’s status by emailing the Employment and Training Participant Status form (DPHHS-HCS/SNAP-010) within 10 days of a participants change in status.

If the State uses a MIS system, describe the E&T related data that is tracked and stored in those systems (e.g. referrals, noncompliance with program requirements, provider determination, etc.), and whether the system(s) interact with each other.

Maximus has view only access to the CHIMES MIS system which collects referral and eligibility data. The SNAP E&T referral is inputted into CHIMES by the eligibility worker. Maximus uses TuaPath, their case management system which collects SNAP E&T data for the annual report and the FNS-583. CHIMES sends SNAP E&T referrals directly to TuaPath.

Describe the State agency’s process for monitoring E&T providers’ program and fiscal operations. Include plans for direct monitoring such as visits, as well as indirect monitoring such as reviewing program data, financial invoices, etc.

Montana SNAP E&T Coordinator conducts management and fiscal evaluation reviews of at least three local SNAP E&T program sites and SNAP E&T contractor per fiscal year, either in person or virtually as the environment allows.
During the program review, the Montana SNAP E&T Coordinator notifies Maximus in writing at least 30 days in advance of an in person or virtual site review. SNAP E&T Coordinator does an annual review of SNAP E&T providers’ case records reviews, interviews with participants, provider staff, eligibility staff, and other community partners using a standardize questionnaire. Fiscal reviews may be conducted separately and use a Fiscal Monitoring Tool and a random selection of invoices with backup documentation. A written report is provided to the provider within 60 days of the review, regarding areas of commendation, improvement and any corrective actions is provided to the contractor after the review is complete. Contractor is given the opportunity to respond and provide corrective action plans 30 days after receipt of receiving the Program and/or Fiscal monitoring reports.
The SNAP E&T Coordinator also monitors all monthly invoices sent by Maximus. The E&T Coordinator selects cases to be reviewed for accuracy in CHIMES and TuaPath. Also, all supportive services reported to the monthly invoice are reviewed in CHIMES making sure the participant receiving the reimbursement is open for SNAP during the invoice month. If any discrepancies are found the E&T Coordinator returns the invoice to Maximus and Maximus resubmits a corrected invoice if necessary.

How frequently does the State agency monitor E&T providers’ program and fiscal operations?

	Daily
	Weekly
	Monthly
	Quarterly
	Bi-Annually
	Annually
	Other

Describe how the State agency evaluates the performance of providers in achieving the purpose of E&T (assisting members of SNAP households in gaining skills, training, work, or experience that will increase their ability to obtain regular employment and meets State or local workforce needs).

Montana evaluates the number of participants served and number of participants that participate in SNAP E&T that gain employment. Montana also evaluates five indicators:
• 14-day Job Placement
• Job Retention 180 Days
• Job Advancement 180 Days
• Post Secondary Completion
• Completion of GED/HiSET

How frequently does the State agency evaluate the performance of providers in achieving the purpose of E&T?

	Daily
	Weekly
	Monthly
	Quarterly
	Bi-Annually
	Annually
	Other

SCREENING FOR WORK REGISTRATION

State agency eligibility staff must screen for federal exemptions from work registration, per 7 CFR 273.7(a).

Describe how the State agency screens applicants to determine if they are work registrants.

SNAP applicants are screened by both the eligibility staff and the CHIMES system to determine their work registrant status. Business rules within CHIMES include applicable exemptions based on data entered by the eligibility staff from the application and interactive interview. CHIMES can recognize that the participant is exempt from the work registration rules if the participant is working over 30 hours per week, 60 or older, 16 or 17 and attending school, or an eligible student. Eligibility staff must enter “Yes” or “No” in the SNAP Work Registration question “Is there anyone in the household that has a work registration exemption?”, if for example: the participant is caring for a child under the age of 6 or caring for an incapacitated person the staff would enter “Yes."

How does the State agency work register non-exempt individuals?

The signed SNAP application and recertification forms are the only verification needed to meet the requirement of registering for work.

At what point in the certification process does the State agency provide the written explanation of the applicable work requirements? Select all that apply.

	Point of Intake
	Point of Certification
	Reported change in the work registrant status of household members
	Point of Recertification
	State does not provide written explanation

At what point in the certification process does the State agency provide the oral explanation of the applicable work requirements? Select all that apply.

	Point of Intake
	Point of Certification
	Reported change in the work registrant status of household members
	Point of Recertification
	State does not provide oral explanation

SCREENING FOR REFERRAL TO E&T

The State agency must screen each work registrant to determine if it is appropriate, based on State-specific criteria, to refer them to the E&T program per 7 CFR 273.7 (c)(2). State agencies may operate program components in which individuals elect to participate, per 7 CFR 273.7(e)(4).

List the State-specific criteria eligibility workers use to screen individuals to determine if it is appropriate to refer them to the State's SNAP E&T program.

SNAP eligibility staff screen and refer all work registrants that reside in a county with SNAP E&T based on the following criteria:

• Unemployed or underemployed?
• Ready and able to work?
• Interested in gaining skills that may lead to a new or better career?
• Interested in basic job skills needed to secure employment?
• Could use support to obtain employment (gas assistance, bus pass, etc.)?
• Interested in self-employment or know of a business need in community?
• Need to gain work experience?
• Interested in an apprenticeship?
• Interested in obtaining a high school diploma?
• Interested in participating in SNAP E&T?
If Maximus does not have any appropriate and available openings in the E&T program a wait list would be developed, ABAWDS would be given priority, and referrals would cease. SNAP clients would be referred to other community employment programs, if available

What information does the State provide to a SNAP recipient to explain SNAP E&T participation criteria?

Eligibility staff will explain the SNAP E&T program by using a script during the application and recertification interview to SNAP recipients who reside in a SNAP E&T county. Once the applicant has been determined eligible for SNAP benefits, screens eligible for SNAP E&T, and is interested in participating in SNAP E&T, they will then receive a SNAP E&T referral. The SNAP E&T referral will contain Maximus contact information. Maximus will reach out to the E&T recipient once the referral is received in the SNAP E&T Referral inbox located in CHIMES. A referral is also handed to the participant or mailed to their address.

How does the State document that the information has been provided?

State eligibility staff are expected to case note that the information has been provided to the client. The case note is uploaded into each case within the State's eligibility system.

What is the State's model for screening and referral to SNAP E&T? Select all that apply.

	Reverse Referral
	Direct Referral

When does screening for referral to E&T occur? Select all that apply.

	Initial Certification
	Recertification
	Reported change in the work registrant status of households
	Other

Describe the process for screening for direct referral to E&T, including the staff involved.

When does the screening for a reverse referral request occur?

Primary source of reverse referrals are former TANF Pathways participants that are no longer receiving TANF Cash and are interested in participating in the SNAP E &T program. Former Pathways participants are redirected back to the eligibility staff.

Describe the process for screening during the reverse referral request process, including the staff involved.

When an interested individual walks into a SNAP E&T provider’s office, the provider refers the individual to the eligibility staff to determine if the individual is SNAP and SNAP E&T eligible before providing a referral to the individual and SNAP E&T program.

Are participants informed about participant reimbursements before the individual is referred to E&T by eligibility staff?

	Yes
	No

How are participants informed about participant reimbursements?

The eligibility staff script includes information to inform potential SNAP E&T participants of participant reimbursement during the explanation of the SNAP E&T program. Staff also ask if potential participants need assistance getting to or contacting the SNAP E&T provider.

SNAP E&T provider also inform participants about participant reimbursement during the SNAP E&T orientation and throughout case management meetings as the need arises.

REFERRAL TO E&T

In accordance with 7 CFR 273.7(c)(2), in order to participate in SNAP E&T, the State agency must make the referral. The referral method may vary from participant to participant.

What information does the State provide to E&T participants when they are referred? Select all that apply.

	Information about accessing E&T services
	Case Management
	Dates
	Contact information
	Other

How is the referral communicated? Select all that apply.

	Orally
	Electronic Forms
	Physical Forms
	Emails
	Text Messages
	Other

If the State receives a reverse referral request from an E&T provider, what steps does the State take?

The eligibility worker informs the participant of work requirements and SNAP E&T program services including participant reimbursements. The eligibility worker creates the Maximus referral in CHIMES then mails the SNAP recipient the E&T referral (HCS SNAP-001) to their address. Additionally, if they have opted to receive notices electronically via the Self-Service Portal they will receive the referral electronically.

How does the State communicate to the SNAP participant that they are in SNAP E&T? Select all that apply.

	Orally
	Electronic Forms
	Physical Forms
	Emails
	Text Messages
	Other

Explain the other methods the State uses to communicate to the SNAP participant that they are in SNAP E&T.

When the SNAP recipient receives a referral from eligibility staff, they are given the contact information for Maximus and notified that someone from a Maximus will be reaching out. Maximus makes every effort to complete participant enrollment as quickly as possible. Maximus provides in-person and virtual orientations that are led by a facilitator or self-led orientations. During the orientation individuals are given information regarding the SNAP E&T program:
• Introduction to E&T program and services available to participants
• Participant civil rights
• Participant reimbursement
• SNAP E&T requirements
• Difference between qualifying and non-qualifying SNAP E&T components.
• SNAP E&T providers also explain the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training Contractual Agreement (DPHHS-HCS SNAP-009) to the SNAP participant, this document explains the SNAP E&T program and outlines the E&T participant rights and responsibilities for participating in the SNAP E&T program (not a SNAP certification function).
If the participant does not attend the orientation Maximus follows up with the client via phone, email, and text message. Each referral is good for 30 days.

How does the State communicate to the SNAP participant about their rights to receive participant reimbursements? Select all that apply.

	Orally
	Electronic Forms
	Physical Forms
	Emails
	Text Messages
	Other

How is information about the referral communicated to E&T providers, as applicable?

Once a participant has been determined SNAP eligible a referral is created within CHIMES. This referral includes name, case number, phone number, email address and ABAWD status. Currently the referral is sent directly from CHIMES to Maximus's case management system, TuaPath.

How is information about the referral communicated within the State agency?

Eligibility staff send the referral to the SNAP eligible client using the CHIMES system and enters a case note. All E&T referrals are sent to the SNAP E&T Coordinator monthly via a report created in CHIMES and sent via File Transfer.

After referral, what additional steps does the E&T participant take to access the program? Select all that apply.

	Assessment
	Orientation
	Meet with case manager
	Other

Is orientation mandatory?

	Yes
	No

Who runs the orientation? Select all that apply.

	State Agency
	Intermediary
	E&T Provider
	County or Local Office

How is the orientation conducted? Select all that apply.

	In Person
	Virtually
	Online
	Self-Paced
	Other

What happens during the orientation?

The orientation is provided in multiple formats based on the participant's preference such as in person with the case manager, virtually on Teams or Zoom with a orientation coordinator using PowerPoint slides, or online and self-paced using orientation modules developed by Maximus. The orientation includes information such as qualifying and non-qualifying components and allowable activities, participant reimbursements, case management expectations, timesheet requirements, ABAWD time requirements to meet exceptions, and civil rights.

ASSESSMENT

Does the State require or provide an assessment?

	Yes
	No

Who conducts the assessment? Select all that apply.

	State Agency
	E&T Provider
	Self-Assessment
	Intermediary
	Local Office
	Other

When are participants assessed?

The E&T provider, Maximus, conducts the employability assessment at the initial case management appointment

Describe the assessment. List the tools used in the assessment.

Maximus conducts an oral and written employability assessment. SNAP E&T case manager assists the SNAP E&T participant in identifying their employment goals and barriers; the E&T case manager also helps to develop an Individual Employability Plan (IEP) and locates resources to accomplish identified employment goals. Maximus maintains a database which contains participant employability assessments. SNAP E&T participants may request a copy of the assessment and contact information for community resources to assist them in overcoming barriers.

Maximus also provides a wellbeing assessment to address where the participant may need community resources. If the wellbeing assessment identifies a need for local community resources, Maximus will connect the E&T participant with the appropriate community resource agency.

Does the assessment result in the completion of an individual employment plan?

	Yes
	No

How are assessment results shared with State agency staff? Select all that apply.

	Orally
	Electronic Forms
	Physical Forms
	MIS System
	Email
	Other
	Assessment is not shared with State agency staff

Explain how else assessment results are shared with State agency staff.

Assessments are available electronically in Maximus's case management system, TuaPath.

How are assessment results shared with E&T providers? Select all that apply.

	Orally
	Electronic Forms
	Physical Forms
	MIS System
	Email
	Other
	Assessment is not shared with E&T providers

Explain how else assessment results are shared with E&T providers.

Maximus and their subcontractors assist the participants with completing their assessments. Assessments are available electronically in Maximus's case management system, TuaPath.

How are assessment results shared with E&T participants? Select all that apply.

	Orally
	Electronic Forms
	Physical Forms
	Email
	Other
	Assessment is not shared with E&T participants

Explain how else assessment results are shared with E&T participants.

Participants have access to view their assessments in Maximus's case management system, TuaPath. Additionally, participants may request a copy from their case manager if they wish to receive an electronic or paper copy.

Are participants reassessed?

	Yes
	No

When are participants reassessed?

Participants are re-assessed at a minimum of every 3 months.

How are participants reassessed?

Participants can complete the assessment through a self-paced module in TuaPath, or they may do the assessments in person or virtually with their case manager using the forms in TuaPath.

CONCILIATION PROCESS

In accordance with 7 CFR 273.7(c)(3), State agencies have the option to offer a conciliation period to noncompliant E&T participants. The conciliation period provides mandatory E&T participants with an opportunity to comply before the State agency sends a notice of adverse action. The conciliation process is not a substitute for the determination of good cause when a client fails to comply.

Does the State agency offer a conciliation process?

	Yes
	No

CASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES

The State E&T program must provide case management services to all E&T participants. In accordance with 7 CFR 273.7(c)(6)(ii), State agencies are required to include specific information about the provision of case management services in the E&T State plan.

What types of E&T case management services will be offered to the participant? Select all that apply.

	Comprehensive Intake Assessments
	Individualized Service Plans
	Progress Monitoring
	Coordination with Service Providers
	Reassessment
	Other

Who delivers the case management services in your State? Select all that apply.

	SNAP State agency
	Local Office(s)
	Intermediary
	E&T Providers

How are case management services delivered in your State? Select all that apply.

	Group Meeting (virtual)
	Group Meeting (in person)
	Individual (virtual)
	Individual (in person)
	Phone
	Text
	Email
	Other

Describe how E&T case managers coordinate with other staff and services. Coordination can involve tracking E&T participation, sharing information that may be relevant to participation in E&T (e.g. information related to good cause or a work exemption), and referral to additional services.

QUESTION	RESPONSE FIELD
How do E&T case managers coordinate with: SNAP eligibility staff	Maximus and sub-contractors will notify the SNAP eligibility staff of a participant status by emailing the Employment and Training Participant Status Form (DPHHS-HCS/SNAP-010) within 10 days of a participant’s change in status: • Participant enrolled in the SNAP E&T program and is actively participating in a qualifying component • Participant is no longer participating in a qualifying component in the SNAP E&T program. • Participant participated in the SNAP E&T program for 80 hours in a 30 consecutive day period (more than 40 hours in a qualifying component. • Participant is not suited for SNAP E&T, reassess for other ABAWD exemptions. Why the participant not suited for SNAP E&T. Maximus and sub-contractors will provide a provider determination when a participant is not suited for SNAP E&T program within 10 days of determination by faxing or emailing the Employment and Training Client Status Form (DPHHS- HCS/SNAP-010) to the OPA. Eligibility staff will receive a ‘task’ when the form is scanned into Perceptive. When the task is received, the eligibility staff member attempts to determine good cause by sending a notice within 10 days. If the participant does not respond within 10 days, or if there is no good cause or an exemption does not exist, the eligibility staff member will update the data in the CHIMES system. A case note will be completed, and a Notice of Adverse Action will be sent using timely notice guidelines.
How do E&T case managers coordinate with: State E&T staff	The SNAP E&T Coordinator will work with Maximus to continually assess and improve trainings and processes for new and current SNAP E&T providers (Maximus and sub-contractors) and will, at a minimum, conduct quarterly SNAP E&T provider meetings as needed, to keep Maximus informed of policy and procedural information. Montana maintains and revises a SNAP E&T Contractor Handbook which contains policies and procedures. Montana’s SNAP E&T Coordinator also maintains communication through emails, phone calls and additional meeting as needed.
How do E&T case managers coordinate with: Other E&T providers	Maximus is the only E&T provider contracted with Montana. Maximus has three subcontractors that provide E&T services in Montana: District 7 Human Resources Development Council (HRDC7), District 6 Human Resources Development Council (HRDC6), and Community Action Partnership of Northwest Montana (CAPNW). The State of Montana communicates directly with Maximus, and Maximus communicates with its subcontractors.
How do E&T case managers coordinate with: Community resources	Case management staff are involved in local communities and are aware of available community resources to better assist SNAP E&T participants in overcoming barriers to employment by providing appropriate referrals. Community coordination and non-duplication of services are essential. Case managers coordinate services with the Maximus outreach team to provide participants with referrals for employment, community resources, and education training. Case managers are expected to provide documentation that such coordination exists as part of their ongoing case management portfolio when working with an E&T participant. E&T participation is tracked by participants on timesheets, and they are reviewed weekly by E&T case managers during case management meetings. Case managers review for work exemptions and provider determinations during all interactions with participants.

How does the State agency ensure E&T participants receive targeted case management services through an efficient administrative process, per 7 CFR 273.7(c)(6)(ii)?

Case Mangers assist all E&T participants with targeted case management services through completing initial and ongoing assessments to determine agreed upon goals which meet a qualifying and/or non-qualifying component(s). Once a SNAP E&T case manager is aware of a participant’s ABAWD status, they provide targeted case management services to ABAWD participants by encouraging participation in a qualifying component as soon as possible in order to qualify for an exemption from time limited benefits and meeting their training and employment goals. Case managers are provided training and guidance on how to provide efficient case management and handle unique or challenging situations. When necessary, issues are elevated to Maximus’s leadership and subsequently the State Agency when needed to interpret guidance. The State Agency also conducts three ME reviews per year to ensure case management services are provided efficiently and appropriately.

How do your offered case management services support the participant in the E&T program and provide activities and resources that help the participant achieve program goals?

SNAP E&T case managers provide targeted case management services to ABAWD participants by encouraging participation in a qualifying component as soon as possible in order to qualify for an exemption from time limited benefits and meeting their training and employment goals.

How does the SNAP State agency ensure the case management services offered do not act as an impediment to successful participation in E&T?

Case management meetings are scheduled weekly; however, if a participant shares that weekly does not work for their schedule or if weekly is determined to not be needed based on the participant's progress and reporting of activities then an alternative meeting schedule can be made. Case management can either be done in-person or virtually with the case manager based on the participant's preference. Additionally, supportive services in gas cards are offered if transportation to case management meetings is a barrier to participation.

GOOD CAUSE

In accordance with 7 CFR 273.7(i), the State agency is responsible for determining good cause when a SNAP recipient fails or refuses to comply with SNAP work requirements. Since it is not possible for FNS to enumerate each individual situation that should or should not be considered good cause, the State agency must take into account the facts and circumstances, including information submitted by the employer and by the household member involved, in determining whether or not good cause exists.

How does the State agency reach out to the SNAP participant to determine good cause? Select all that apply.

	Phone Call
	Email
	Text Message
	Physical Form

How does the State agency reach out to the employers to determine good cause? Select all that apply.

	Phone Call
	Email
	Text Message
	Physical Form

How does the State agency reach out to E&T providers to determine good cause? Select all that apply.

	Phone Call
	Email
	Text Message
	Physical Form
	MIS System

How many attempts are made to reach out to the SNAP participant for additional information?

	One
	Two
	Three
	More than three

What is the State agency's criteria for good cause?

Montana’s good cause criteria including and not limited to the following, since eligibility staff must consider the facts and circumstance in determining whether or not good cause exits:

1. Illness of the individual or another household member requiring the presence of the individual in the home.
2. A household emergency.
3. The lack of adequate childcare for children who have reached age 6 but are under age 12.
4. Discrimination by an employer based on age, race, sex, color, handicap, national origin, or religious or political beliefs.
5. Work demands or conditions that are not reasonable, such as working without being paid on schedule.
6. Accepting other employment or enrolling at least half-time in any recognized school training program or institution of higher education that requires the individual to leave employment.
7. Acceptance by any other household member of employment or enrollment at least half-time in any recognized school, training program or institution of higher education in another geographic area that requires the household to move and thereby requires the individual to leave employment.
8. Resignations by persons under the age of 60 which are recognized by the employer as retirement.
9. Leaving a job in connection with patterns of employment in which workers often move from one employer to another, such as migrant farm labor or construction work.
The job is not suitable as described below:
a) The wage offered is less than the highest of the applicable Federal minimum wage is applicable State minimum wage, or eighty percent (80%) of the Federal minimum wage if neither the Federal nor State minimum wage is applicable.
b) The employment offered is on a piece rate basis and the employee does not expect to earn the wage specified in item (a) above.
c) The household member, as a condition of employment or continuing employment, is required to join, resign from, or refrain from joining any legitimate labor organization. Note: an individual required to pay representation fees to the union but not required to actually join the union does not have good cause. (e.g., state or federal employees)
d) The work offered is at a site subject to a strike or lockout at the time of offer, unless the strike is declared unlawful by a court of law.
e) The degree of risk to health and safety is not reasonable.
f) The member is physically or mentally unfit to perform the employment, as documented by medical evidence or by reliable information from another source.
g) The daily, round trip, commute to the place of employment is more than two hours from the individual’s home. Do not include the time required to transport a child to and from day care in the daily commuting time.
h) A move, which results in more than 2 hours commuting time from the job, is good cause for voluntary quit.
i) The distance to the place of employment is too far to walk, and neither public nor private transportation is available to the job site.
j) The working hours or nature of employment interferes with the individual’s religious observances, convictions, or beliefs.

The employment offered within the first 30 days of registration is not in the individual’s major field of experience.

Describe the State agency's process to determine good cause if there is not an appropriate and available opening for an E&T participant.

If SNAP E&T providers do not have any appropriate and available openings in the E&T program a wait list would be developed, ABAWDS would be given priority, and referrals would cease. SNAP clients would be referred to other community employment programs, if available.

PROVIDER DETERMINATIONS

In accordance with 7 CFR 273.7(c)(18) a State agency must ensure that E&T providers are informed of their authority and responsibility to determine if an individual is ill-suited for a particular E&T component.

Describe the process used by E&T providers to communicate provider determinations to the State agency.

Maximus is routinely informed they have the authority and responsibility to deem that participants are not fit for the E&T program. Maximus may make a provider determination from the time a participant is referred to the component until completion of the component. Maximus may place or switch participants in components based on their employability assessment, individualized employment goals, and abilities to assist in the participant’s success.

Maximus must notify eligibility staff when a participant has been determined not suited for the SNAP E&T program and why they are not suited for the SNAP E&T program within 10-days of determination by faxing or emailing the Employment and Training Client Status Form (DPHHS-HCS/SNAP-010) to the OPA Scanning unit.
Eligibility staff will receive a ‘task’ when the form is scanned into Perceptive (data management system.)

The eligibility staff may consult Maximus for additional information that would assist in making the most suitable decision for the participant. It is possible for the eligibility staff to re-refer the participant back to the SNAP E&T program.

Describe how the State agency notifies clients of a provider determination.

Once eligibility staff receive the task with the provider determination, the eligibility worker will attempt to contact the client to discuss the provider determination which also includes sending a general correspondence to the client within 10 days of receipt of the provider determination. The eligibility worker will discuss the following with the client as well as provide the following in the general correspondence letter sent in the mail. The eligiblity worker & general correspondence will detail that a provider determination was received from Maximus, Montana’s E&T Contractor. That the contractor has authority and responsibility to notify Montana DPHHS of their decision, and the client has been deemed ineligible for SNAP E&T services, and the client has not been disqualified from SNAP. If they are an ABAWD, they will accrue countable months towards the three-month participation limit the next full benefit month after the month they received the provider determination, unless the ABAWD fulfills the work requirement, has good cause or lives in a waived area or is otherwise exempt. The correspondence directs the client to contact the OPA within 10 days of receipt of the letter by calling 1-888-706-1535.
Eligibility staff will reassess the participant by taking one of the below steps: 1) Re-refer the client to the E&T program by re-screening for E&T appropriateness by following the SNAP E&T Referral and Screening Business Process. (2) Reassess the physical and mental fitness of the client. If the client is found to not physically or mentally fit the client is exempt from the work requirement. If the client is found to be physically and mentally fit the eligibility worker must consider if one of the other actions in this paragraph are appropriate for the client. (3) Coordinate with other federal, state of local workforce assistance opportunities or assistance programs to identify work opportunities or assistance for the client.

In the case of an ABAWD who has received a provider determination, the ABAWD will accrue countable months toward their three-month participation time limit the next full benefit month during which the eligibility staff notifies the ABAWD of the provider determination, unless ABAWD fulfills the work requirements or the ABAWD has good cause, lives in a waived area, or is otherwise exempt.

What is the timeframe for contacting clients after receiving a provider determination?

	1-3 Days
	4-7 Days
	8-10 Days

DISQUALIFICATION POLICY FOR GENERAL WORK REQUIREMENTS

This section applies to the General Work Requirements, not just to E&T, and should be completed by all States, regardless of whether they operate a mandatory or voluntary E&T program.

All work registrants are subject to SNAP work requirements at 7 CFR 273.7(a). A nonexempt individual who refuses or fails to comply without good cause, as defined at 7 CFR 273.7(2), (3), and (4), with SNAP work requirements will be disqualified and subject to State disqualification periods. Noncompliance with SNAP work requirements includes voluntarily quitting a job or reducing work hours below 30 hours a month, and failing to comply with SNAP E&T (if assigned by the State agency).

What period before application does the State agency use to determine voluntary quit and/or reduction in work effort without good cause per 7 CFR 273.7(j)(1)?

	30 Days
	60 Days

For all occurrences of non-compliance discussed below, must the individual also comply to receive benefits again?

	Yes
	No

For the first occurrence of non-compliance per 7 CFR 273.7(f)(2), the individual will be disqualified until the later of:

	One month or until the individual complies, as determined by the State agency
	Up to 3 months

For the second occurrence of non-compliance per 7 CFR 273.7(f)(2)(ii), the individual will be disqualified until the later of:

	Three months or until the individual complies, as determined by the State agency
	Up to 6 months

For the third or subsequent occurrence per 7 CFR 273.7(f)(2)(iii), the individual will be disqualified until the later of:

	6 months or until the individual complies, as determined by the State agency
	A date determined by the State agency
	Permanently

The State agency will disqualify the:

	Individual
	The entire household if the head of household is an ineligible individual

PARTICIPANT REIMBURSEMENTS

In accordance with 7 CFR 273.7(d)(4), State agencies are required to pay for or reimburse participants for expenses that are reasonable, necessary, and directly related to participation in E&T. State agencies may impose a maximum limit for reimbursement payments. If a State agency serves mandatory E&T participants, it must meet all costs associated with mandatory participation. If an individual's expenses exceed those reimbursements available by the State agency, the individual must be placed into a suitable component or must be exempted from mandatory E&T.

QUESTION	RESPONSE FIELD
Estimated number of E&T participants to receive participant reimbursements	539
Estimated number of E&T participants to receive reimbursements for dependent care participation costs	0
Estimated number of E&T participants to receive reimbursements for transportation and other participation costs	539
Percentage of participants expected to receive reimbursements	100.00%
Estimated budget for E&T participant reimbursements in upcoming FY	$262,500.00
Estimated budget per participant in fiscal year	$487.01
Estimated number of E&T participants to receive participant reimbursements per month	60
Estimated budget of participant reimbursements per E&T participant per month	$364.58

PARTICIPANT REIMBURSEMENT DETAILS

Complete the table below with information on each participant reimbursement offered/permitted by the State agency (do not indicate information for each provider). A description of each category is included below. If the participant reimbursement is provided by multiple entities (such as State agencies and E&T providers) or has multiple methods of payment, a separate entry in the table must be completed.

Allowable Participant Reimbursements. Every State agency must include child care and transportation in this table, as well as other major categories of reimbursements (examples of categories include, but are not limited to: tools, test fees, books, uniforms, license fees, electronic devices, etc.). Mandatory States must meet all costs associated with participating in an E&T program, or else they must exempt individuals from E&T.
Participant Reimbursement Caps (optional). States have the option to establish maximum levels (caps) for reimbursements available to individuals. Indicate any caps on the amount the State agency will provide for the participant reimbursement.
Who provides the participant reimbursements? Indicate if the participant reimbursement is provided by the State agency, a provider, or an intermediary. The State agency remains ultimately responsible for ensuring individuals receive participant reimbursements, even if it has contracted with another entity to provide them.
What is the payment method for Participant Reimbursements? Indicate the mechanism used to disburse payment to E&T participants.
Method of disbursement. Indicate if the participant receives the participant reimbursement in advance or as a reimbursement. Also indicate if the amount of the participant reimbursement is an estimated amount or the actual amount.

Allowable Participant Reimbursements	Participant Reimbursement Caps (Optional)	Who Provides the Participant Reimbursement?	What is the payment method for Participant Reimbursements?	Method of Disbursement
**Other participant reimbursements available on need to need, case by case basis upon approval of SNAP E&T Coordinator. All costs must be reasonable, allowable, and necessary to be approved for supportive services.	$500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Apprenticeship Fees	$500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Automobile Repairs	$100 maximum, must have prior approval from DPHHS	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Background check/finger printing	Must be necessary for pending employment and have verification of employer requirement, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Birth Certificate	$500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Books/Training Manuals	Required for approved training, $1500 maximum cumulative for "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Business License	Participant must have a business idea and need in their community, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
College Transcripts	$500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Driver’s License/Real ID	$500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Drug Test	Must be necessary for pending employment and have verification of employer requirement, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Identification/Real ID	$500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Interview attire	limit of 2, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Legal Costs	Such as Criminal records expungement and Driver’s License Reinstatement fee of $100 maximum, must have prior approval from DPHHS, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Personal safety items	Must be necessary for pending employment and have verification of employer requirement, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Pre-paid track phone and minutes	Pre-paid track phones and minutes are intended for SNAP E&T participants, who have no other way for potential employers to contact them, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor. (reimbursement)
Student activity fees	If required to participate in training, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
TB Test	Must be necessary for pending employment, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Tools and equipment	Must be necessary for pending employment and have verification of employer requirements, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Transportation	$500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to participant	Fuel only card or bus pass purchased by the SNAP E&T contractor and distributed to the participant (reimbursement)
Tuition/Certificate/fees for training	Required for approved training, $1500 maximum cumulative for "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor. (reimbursement)
Uniform	limit of 3 uniforms, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Union dues	Must be necessary for pending employment and have verification of employer requirement, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)
Wi-Fi Hotspots	Must be necessary for employment, training and/or participation in E&T, $500 maximum cumulative for all categories except "Tuition/Fees for Training" and "Books /Training Manuals"	SNAP E&T Provider	Direct payment to vendor(s)	Provider purchases directly from the vendor (reimbursement)

Is dependent care provided? Select yes even if E&T funds are not being used.

	Yes
	No

How does the State agency ensure that the participant has the necessary participant reimbursements to begin participation in the E&T program?

SNAP participants who are referred to SNAP E&T are asked if transportation is a barrier and if they would need a gas card to attend orientation. Montana eligibility staff provide a gas card at the OPA office if the participant indicates gas expenses are a barrier to orientation and participation.

WORK REGISTRANT DATA

The SNAP general work requirements are described at 7 CFR 273.7(a). Individuals who do not meet a federal exemption from the general work requirements, as listed in 7 CFR 273.7(b)(1), are subject to the general work requirement and must register for work. In accordance with 7 CFR 273.7(c)(10), the State agency must submit to FNS the number of work registrants in the State as of October 1st. This information is submitted on the first quarter E&T Program Activity Report (FNS-583).

Describe the process the State agency uses to count all work registrants in the State as of the first day of the new fiscal year (October 1).

Montana’s SNAP eligibility staff enter mandatory work registrants using information entered in the CHIMES. Whenever a SNAP application is processed, or registration status changes, the eligibility staff go into the Work Registrant-Summary page and enters the individual’s current work registration status. The state agency receives a report from the CHIMES contractor with the number of non-exempt work registrants as of October 1.

Provide information about how work registrant data is pulled from the eligibility system, including the date the data is pulled.

An annual report has been designed to pull all non-exempt work registrants throughout Montana on October 1. This provides the basis for which all other data collected through the year is compared to.

How are work registrants identified in the eligibility system?

Whenever a SNAP application is processed, or registration status changes, the eligibility staff go into the Work Registrant-Summary page and enters the individual’s current work registration status.

Describe measures taken to prevent duplicate counting of work registrants within the federal fiscal year.

Montana's eligibility system, CHIMES, tracks changes from one status to another, e.g., mandatory work registrants, statutory exemption, or individual exemption. A CHIMES ad hoc report shows the total work registrant population as of October 1, of the program year and excludes work registrants from being counted in additional months during the Federal Fiscal Year to prevent duplication. A monthly CHIMES ad hoc report providing monthly SNAP eligible new work registrant totals is run at the end of the month (October through September) of the program year.

OUTCOME REPORTING MEASURES

Indicate the data source used for the national reporting measures. Select all that apply.

Outcome Reporting Measures	Employment & Earnings Measures	Attainment of Credential / Certificate	Measurable Skill Gains
Quarterly Wage Records (QWR)
National Directory of New Hires (NDNH)
State Management Information System (MIS)
Manual Follow-up with SNAP E&T Participants
Random Sample
Other

Indicate what other data sources were used for the national reporting measures.

Outcome data is collected by E&T providers in TuaPath and monthly Excel reports provided to the state agency from E&T providers

Indicate the data source used for the State-specific component measures. Select all that apply.

	Quarterly Wage Records (QWR)
	National Directory of New Hires (NDNH)
	State Management Information System (MIS)
	Manual Follow-up with SNAP E&T Participants
	Random Sample

Indicate the MIS used (e.g. SNAP eligibility system, State's Department of Labor MIS.)

Combined Healthcare Information and Montana Eligibility System (CHIMES), TuaPath is being used by Maximus to collect participant data for the annual report and FNS-583 (this system is outside of CHIMES and all E&T providers, E&T Coordinator have access to the system).

COMPONENTS OVERVIEW

Which non-education, non-work components does the State agency plan to offer? Select all that apply.

	Job Retention
	Job Search Training
	Self-Employment Training
	Supervised Job Search
	Workfare

Which educational components does the State agency plan to offer? Select all that apply.

	Basic / Foundational Skills Instruction
	Career / Technical Education Programs or other Vocational Training
	English Language Acquisition
	Integrated Education and Training / Bridge Programs
	Other Educational Program
	Work Readiness Training

Which work experience components does the State agency plan to offer? Select all that apply.

	Work Activity
	Work-Based Learning

Which type of Work-Based Learning components are offered?

	Apprenticeship
	Customized Training
	Incumbent Worker Training
	Internship
	On-the-job Training
	Pre-Apprenticeship
	Transitional Jobs

NON-EDUCATION, NON-WORK COMPONENT: JOB RETENTION

Description of the component. Provide a summary of the activities and services.

Job Retention assists participants by providing supportive services for a maximum of 90 days of the participant’s new employment. A good faith effort is attempted to provide these services for at least 30 days. Job retention services must be reasonable and necessary may include supportive services and case management. Job retention is a non-qualifying component.

Indicate the Target Population this component will serve. Select all that apply.

	ABAWDs
	Homeless
	Returning citizens (aka: ex-offenders)
	Single parents
	Students
	Those that reside in rural areas
	Underemployed
	Veterans

Describe the criteria for participation. Include the skills, knowledge, or experience necessary for participation in the component. For example, literacy or numeracy levels, recent labor market attachment, computer literacy, etc.

To be eligible for Job Retention supportive services the SNAP E&T participant must have obtained employment after participating in an E&T component.

Indicate the geographic areas where this component is offered.

County Name	County Name	County Name
Big Horn County	Golden Valley County	Petroleum County
Cascade County	Judith Basin County	Ravalli County
Deer Lodge County	Lewis and Clark County	Silver Bow County
Fergus County	Lincoln County	Wheatland County
Flathead County	Missoula County	Yellowstone County
Gallatin County	Musselshell County

Projected Annual Participation. Projection should reflect a number of unduplicated individuals.

Estimated Annual Component Administrative Cost

$150,600.00

NON-EDUCATION, NON-WORK COMPONENT: JOB SEARCH TRAINING

Description of the component. Provide a summary of the activities and services.

Job Search Training enhances job readiness, through training or education of job skills required by an employer to provide an individual with the ability to obtain employment. Job readiness activities may include but are not limited to the following:
• Job Skills assessment
• Resume writing
• Interviewing techniques
• Soft skills classes (Such as: self-image development of appropriate work behavior and attitudes)

This component centers on pre-employment training to remove barriers from employment to directly enhance the employability of participants. JST is a non-qualifying component.

The participant will participate in a minimum average of 12 weekly hours of allowable SNAP E&T activities or 48 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month. If an ABAWD is in both a qualifying and non-qualifying component, to maintain an ABAWD exemption due to E&T participation the participant will complete 80 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month, and the majority of the 80 hours must be from qualifying component activities.

Indicate the Target Population this component will serve. Select all that apply.

	ABAWDs
	Homeless
	Returning citizens (aka: ex-offenders)
	Single parents
	Students
	Those that reside in rural areas
	Underemployed
	Veterans

Need soft skill development and in order to prepare for participant’s continued job search.

Indicate the geographic areas where this component is offered.

County Name	County Name	County Name
Big Horn County	Golden Valley County	Petroleum County
Cascade County	Judith Basin County	Ravalli County
Deer Lodge County	Lewis and Clark County	Silver Bow County
Fergus County	Lincoln County	Wheatland County
Flathead County	Missoula County	Yellowstone County
Gallatin County	Musselshell County

Projected Annual Participation. Projection should reflect a number of unduplicated individuals.

350

Estimated Annual Component Administrative Cost

$309,324.00

Outcome Measure

Describe the methodology for the outcome reporting measure. Include timeframes being reported (e.g. denominator and numerator)

Number and percentage of participants that gained employment after participating in Job Search Training

Numerator will include those participants who gained employment after participating in the Job Search Training component during the period of 10-1-2025 to 9-30-2026. Denominator will include the number of the participants that participated in Job Search Training during the period of 10-1-2025 to 9-30-2026.

Of those who gained employment after participating in JST, number and percentage of participants who increased their wage from previous job to their new job.

Numerator will include those participants who meet the following two conditions during the period of 10-1-2025 to 9-30-2026: 1) gained employment after participating in the Job Search Training component and 2) reported a wage increase. Denominator will include the number of the participants who gained employment after participating in Job Search Training during the period of 10-1-2025 to 9-30-2026.

NON-EDUCATION, NON-WORK COMPONENT: SELF-EMPLOYMENT TRAINING

Description of the component. Provide a summary of the activities and services.

Self-Employment component offers training to improve the employability of participants to design and operate a small business or another self-employment venture. The Self- Employment component will guide participants with sound business ideas for those lacking the skills and knowledge to successfully create and implement a plan for self- employment. SNAP E&T participants receive technical assistance in developing business plans and in creating financial marketing plans. Participants also learn how to access small business grants and other business support services. Self-Employment Training is a non-qualifying component.

The participant will participate in a minimum average of 12 weekly hours of allowable SNAP E&T activities or 48 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month. If an ABAWD is in both a qualifying and non-qualifying component, to maintain an ABAWD exemption due to E&T participation the participant will complete 80 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month, and the majority of the 80 hours must be from qualifying component activities.

Indicate the Target Population this component will serve. Select all that apply.

	ABAWDs
	Homeless
	Returning citizens (aka: ex-offenders)
	Single parents
	Students
	Those that reside in rural areas
	Underemployed
	Veterans

Participants must have a business idea and a demonstrated need for that business in their community (using available community workforce data).

Indicate the geographic areas where this component is offered.

County Name	County Name	County Name
Big Horn County	Golden Valley County	Petroleum County
Cascade County	Judith Basin County	Ravalli County
Deer Lodge County	Lewis and Clark County	Silver Bow County
Fergus County	Lincoln County	Wheatland County
Flathead County	Missoula County	Yellowstone County
Gallatin County	Musselshell County

Projected Annual Participation. Projection should reflect a number of unduplicated individuals.

Estimated Annual Component Administrative Cost

$40,300.00

NON-EDUCATION, NON-WORK COMPONENT: WORKFARE

Description of the component. Provide a summary of the activities and services.

Workfare (W) provides individuals with an opportunity to gain work experience and useful workplace skills at a supervised worksite. In lieu of wages, W participants receive compensation in the form of their household’s monthly SNAP allotment.

Worksites and worksite agreements are developed and executed by the SNAP E&T provider with non-profit worksites. Each E&T provider has signed an agreement with the worksite that outlines requirements for working conditions and requires data exchanges such as reporting participation hours. By state law Worker’s Compensation insurance must be provided for participants in the Workfare component only for the hours the SNAP E&T participant is contracted to work. The hours required for this component are equal to the number of hours equal to the household’s allotment for that month divided by the higher of the applicable Federal or State minimum wage. Workfare is a qualifying component.

Indicate the Target Population this component will serve. Select all that apply.

	ABAWDs
	Homeless
	Returning citizens (aka: ex-offenders)
	Single parents
	Students
	Those that reside in rural areas
	Underemployed
	Veterans

Need work experience in key duties associated with a worksite.

Indicate the geographic areas where this component is offered.

County Name	County Name	County Name
Big Horn County	Golden Valley County	Petroleum County
Cascade County	Judith Basin County	Ravalli County
Deer Lodge County	Lewis and Clark County	Silver Bow County
Fergus County	Lincoln County	Wheatland County
Flathead County	Missoula County	Yellowstone County
Gallatin County	Musselshell County

Projected Annual Participation. Projection should reflect a number of unduplicated individuals.

Estimated Annual Component Administrative Cost

$140,600.00

EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT: BASIC / FOUNDATIONAL SKILLS INSTRUCTION

Description of the component. Provide a summary of the activities and services.

Basic education is designed to assist the participant achieve basic literacy needed to secure unsubsidized employment. Basic education activities may include high school, alternative high school, High School Equivalency Test (HiSET), or basic/remedial education programs.
These activities may be done in a traditional as well as alternative approaches. What constitutes a reasonable length of time monthly is determined by the SNAP E&T staff after considering information provided by the instructors. The participant must have regular and consistent weekly attendance. Basic education is a qualifying component.

The participant will participate in a minimum average of 12 weekly hours of allowable SNAP E&T activities or 48 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month. To maintain an ABAWD exemption due to E&T participation the participant will complete 80 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month. If an ABAWD is in both a qualifying and non-qualifying component, the majority of the 80 hours must be from qualifying component activities.

Indicate the Target Population this component will serve. Select all that apply.

	ABAWDs
	Homeless
	Returning citizens (aka: ex-offenders)
	Single parents
	Students
	Those that reside in rural areas
	Underemployed
	Veterans

Participants who have: (1) reading skills below 7th grade level, (2) not completed high school or HiSET, will be referred to appropriate educational activities at either a Career Learning Center or other community based educational institution.

Indicate the geographic areas where this component is offered.

County Name	County Name	County Name
Big Horn County	Golden Valley County	Petroleum County
Cascade County	Judith Basin County	Ravalli County
Deer Lodge County	Lewis and Clark County	Silver Bow County
Fergus County	Lincoln County	Wheatland County
Flathead County	Missoula County	Yellowstone County
Gallatin County	Musselshell County

Projected Annual Participation. Projection should reflect a number of unduplicated individuals.

Estimated Annual Component Administrative Cost

$80,450.00

Not supplanting. Describe how the State agency ensures that costs attributed to the E&T program are not supplanting funds used for other existing educational programs.

The 50/50 match funds used for educational activities are from a non-federal sources from third-party providers, which DPHHS confirms during third-party provider annual plans and invoice reviews. The intermediary provider works with third-party partners to leverage existing funds, so that 50/50 match is for expenses otherwise not reimbursed or paid for by another entity. For example, if an other program covered education fees, the E&T provider would use funds for other necessary participant reimbursements such as required text books or transportation to attend classes. Federal E&T funds used for activities within the education component are not supplanting non-Federal funds for existing educational services and activities.

Cost parity. Describe how the State agency ensures that costs charged to E&T do not exceed the costs charged for non-E&T participants.

SNAP E&T participants are not charged more than non- E&T participants for educational services or activities. If a class is not just SNAP E&T participants, it is cost allocated proportionally. During management evaluations the SNAP E&T Coordinator verifies with the training provider or educational institution that SNAP E&T participants are charged the same cost as non-SNAP E&T participants.
SNAP E&T Coordinator also verifies that costs are reasonable and necessary for the client’s participation in the component.

EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT: CAREER / TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS OR OTHER VOCATIONAL TRAINING

Description of the component. Provide a summary of the activities and services.

The Vocational Education component offers participants an opportunity to access skills that target specific employer needs. Training can be offered by an educational institution, a learning center, employer, or related institution. VE includes referrals to classes such as:
--Flagging/Construction/Welding
--Computer/Office Assistant
--Certified Nurse’s Aide (CNA)
--Certified Driver’s License (CDL)
--Phlebotomy/Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

Vocational Education component is a qualifying component.
The participant will participate in a minimum average of 12 weekly hours of allowable SNAP E&T activities or 48 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month. To maintain an ABAWD exemption due to E&T participation the participant will complete 80 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month. If an ABAWD is in both a qualifying and non-qualifying component, the majority of the 80 hours must be from qualifying component activities.

Indicate the Target Population this component will serve. Select all that apply.

	ABAWDs
	Homeless
	Returning citizens (aka: ex-offenders)
	Single parents
	Students
	Those that reside in rural areas
	Underemployed
	Veterans

Participants must have a desire to obtain specific skills and knowledge that lead to employment.

Indicate the geographic areas where this component is offered.

County Name	County Name	County Name
Big Horn County	Golden Valley County	Petroleum County
Cascade County	Judith Basin County	Ravalli County
Deer Lodge County	Lewis and Clark County	Silver Bow County
Fergus County	Lincoln County	Wheatland County
Flathead County	Missoula County	Yellowstone County
Gallatin County	Musselshell County

Projected Annual Participation. Projection should reflect a number of unduplicated individuals.

100

Estimated Annual Component Administrative Cost

$340,800.00

Not supplanting. Describe how the State agency ensures that costs attributed to the E&T program are not supplanting funds used for other existing educational programs.

The 50/50 match funds used for educational/training activities are from a non-federal sources from third-party providers, which DPHHS confirms during third-party provider annual plans and invoice reviews. The intermediary provider works with third-party partners to leverage existing funds, so that 50/50 match is for expenses otherwise not reimbursed or paid for by another entity. For example, if an other program covered education fees, the E&T provider would use funds for other necessary participant reimbursements such as required text books or transportation to attend classes. Federal E&T funds used for activities within the education component are not supplanting non-Federal funds for existing educational services and activities.

Cost parity. Describe how the State agency ensures that costs charged to E&T do not exceed the costs charged for non-E&T participants.

Outcome Measure

Describe the methodology for the outcome reporting measure. Include timeframes being reported (e.g. denominator and numerator)

Number and percentage of participants that gained employment in a field related to their educational training or certificate after participating in Vocational Education

Numerator will include those participants who gained employment in a field related to their educational training or certificate after participating in the Vocational Education component during the period of 10-1-2025 to 9-30-2026. Denominator will include the number of the participants that participated in Vocational Education during the period of 10-1-2025 to 9-30-2026.

Of those who gained employment after participating in Vocational Education, number and percentage of participants who increased their wage from previous job to their new job.

Numerator will include those participants who meet the following two conditions during the period of 10-1-2025 to 9-30-2026: 1) gained employment after participating in the Vocational Education component and 2) reported a wage increase. Denominator will include the number of the participants who gained employment after participating in Vocational Education during the period of 10-1-2025 to 9-30-2026.

EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT: ENGLISH LANGUAGE ACQUISITION

Description of the component. Provide a summary of the activities and services.

EPEL is for non- or limited English-speaking individuals who need additional assistance in formal grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation of spoken and written English to help advance their search and attainment of employment.
EPEL is a qualifying component.

The participant will participate in a minimum average of 12 weekly hours of allowable SNAP E&T activities or 48 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month. To maintain an ABAWD exemption due to E&T participation the participant will complete 80 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month. If an ABAWD is in both a qualifying and non-qualifying component, the majority of the 80 hours must be from qualifying component activities.

Indicate the Target Population this component will serve. Select all that apply.

	ABAWDs
	Homeless
	Returning citizens (aka: ex-offenders)
	Single parents
	Students
	Those that reside in rural areas
	Underemployed
	Veterans

SNAP E&T participants may be referred for testing, counseling, and educational resources at public community colleges, adult education centers, state, or local agencies, online language learning or to programs which sponsor such activities.

Indicate the geographic areas where this component is offered.

County Name	County Name	County Name
Big Horn County	Golden Valley County	Petroleum County
Cascade County	Judith Basin County	Ravalli County
Deer Lodge County	Lewis and Clark County	Silver Bow County
Fergus County	Lincoln County	Wheatland County
Flathead County	Missoula County	Yellowstone County
Gallatin County	Musselshell County

Projected Annual Participation. Projection should reflect a number of unduplicated individuals.

Estimated Annual Component Administrative Cost

$10,030.00

Not supplanting. Describe how the State agency ensures that costs attributed to the E&T program are not supplanting funds used for other existing educational programs.

Cost parity. Describe how the State agency ensures that costs charged to E&T do not exceed the costs charged for non-E&T participants.

WORK EXPERIENCE COMPONENT: APPRENTICESHIP

Description of the component. Provide a summary of the activities and services.

Offers participants a combination of on-the-job training and related instruction to improve employability. Participants move promptly into regular or private employment. Apprenticeship is a qualifying component.
Contains planned, structured learning experience that takes place in a workplace, and operated for a limited time. Is performed in private for-profit sector, the non-profit sector, or the public sector. Follows the Fair Labor standards ACT (FLSA) if there is an employee/employer relationship.

Participants learn the practical and theoretical aspects of a skilled occupation. Can be sponsored by individual employer, joint employers and labor groups, and/or employer associations. WBLA includes apprenticeships such as:
-- Electrician
-- Plumber
-- HVAC systems

The participant will participate in a minimum average of 12 weekly hours of allowable SNAP E&T activities or 48 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month. To maintain an ABAWD exemption due to E&T participation the participant will complete 80 hours in a 30-day period not to exceed 120 hours in any one month. If an ABAWD is in both a qualifying and non-qualifying component, the majority of the 80 hours must be from qualifying component activities.

Is this component subsidized by SNAP E&T?

	Subsidized
	Unsubsidized
	Both subsidized and unsubsidized

Indicate the Target Population this component will serve. Select all that apply.

	ABAWDs
	Homeless
	Returning citizens (aka: ex-offenders)
	Single parents
	Students
	Those that reside in rural areas
	Underemployed
	Veterans

Participants must have a desire to obtain specific skills and knowledge that lead to unsubsidized employment.

Indicate the geographic areas where this component is offered.

County Name	County Name	County Name
Big Horn County	Golden Valley County	Petroleum County
Cascade County	Judith Basin County	Ravalli County
Deer Lodge County	Lewis and Clark County	Silver Bow County
Fergus County	Lincoln County	Wheatland County
Flathead County	Missoula County	Yellowstone County
Gallatin County	Musselshell County

Projected Annual Participation. Projection should reflect a number of unduplicated individuals.

Estimated Annual Component Administrative Cost

$10,700.00

CONTRACTS OVERVIEW

The State agency must enter every contract or third-party partner. Additionally, the State agency must report if an intermediary directly holds subcontracts with employment and training providers for the delivery of SNAP E&T services. The table below summarizes overall information across all contracts.

Total Number of Contracts + Subcontracts	Total Participants to be Served by Contracts	Total Admin Costs	Total Participant Reimbursement Costs	Total Budget
6	275	$1,109,981.00	$262,500.00	$1,372,481.00

CONTRACTOR: MAXIMUS

Is this Contractor an Intermediary with subcontractors?

	Yes
	No

Indicate the service type

	Consulting
	E&T Services
	Automation/IT
	Marketing
	Other

Indicate the counties where the service is offered by this contractor.

County Name	County Name	County Name
Big Horn County	Golden Valley County	Petroleum County
Cascade County	Judith Basin County	Ravalli County
Deer Lodge County	Lewis and Clark County	Silver Bow County
Fergus County	Lincoln County	Wheatland County
Flathead County	Missoula County	Yellowstone County
Gallatin County	Musselshell County

Which E&T Services are offered by this contractor?

	Basic / Foundational Skills Instruction
	Career / Technical Education Programs or other Vocational Training
	Case Management Services
	English Language Acquisition
	Job Retention
	Job Search Training
	Self-Employment Training
	WBL - Apprenticeship
	Workfare

Annual Number of SNAP E&T Participants to be Served

275

Are participant reimbursements provided by the Contractor?

	Yes
	No

Total participant reimbursements costs (inclusive of federal and non-federal shares)

$262,500.00

Amount of 100 percent Federal Funds (includes ABAWD Pledge Funds)

$22,633.00

Total Amount of 50/50 (or 75/25) Admin Funds (inclusive of federal and non-federal shares)

$1,087,348.00

Will this contract serve members of Indian Tribal Organizations (ITOs) and be reimbursed at 75%?

	Yes
	No

SUBCONTRACTOR: COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP NORTHWEST

INTERMEDIARY: MAXIMUS

Which E&T Services are offered by this subcontractor?

	Basic / Foundational Skills Instruction
	Career / Technical Education Programs or other Vocational Training
	Case Management Services
	English Language Acquisition
	Job Retention
	Job Search Training
	Self-Employment Training
	WBL - Apprenticeship
	Workfare

Annual Number of SNAP E&T Participants to be Served

Are participant reimbursements provided? If so, how are they provided?

	Yes, by the intermediary
	Yes, by the subcontractor
	No

SUBCONTRACTOR: GREAT FALLS COLLEGE

INTERMEDIARY: MAXIMUS

Which E&T Services are offered by this subcontractor?

	Basic / Foundational Skills Instruction
	Career / Technical Education Programs or other Vocational Training
	Case Management Services
	English Language Acquisition
	Job Retention
	Job Search Training
	Self-Employment Training
	WBL - Apprenticeship
	Workfare

Annual Number of SNAP E&T Participants to be Served

Are participant reimbursements provided? If so, how are they provided?

	Yes, by the intermediary
	Yes, by the subcontractor
	No

SUBCONTRACTOR: HUMAN RESOURCED DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 6

INTERMEDIARY: MAXIMUS

Which E&T Services are offered by this subcontractor?

	Basic / Foundational Skills Instruction
	Career / Technical Education Programs or other Vocational Training
	Case Management Services
	English Language Acquisition
	Job Retention
	Job Search Training
	Self-Employment Training
	WBL - Apprenticeship
	Workfare

Annual Number of SNAP E&T Participants to be Served

Are participant reimbursements provided? If so, how are they provided?

	Yes, by the intermediary
	Yes, by the subcontractor
	No

SUBCONTRACTOR: HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 7

INTERMEDIARY: MAXIMUS

Which E&T Services are offered by this subcontractor?

	Basic / Foundational Skills Instruction
	Career / Technical Education Programs or other Vocational Training
	Case Management Services
	English Language Acquisition
	Job Retention
	Job Search Training
	Self-Employment Training
	WBL - Apprenticeship
	Workfare

Annual Number of SNAP E&T Participants to be Served

182

Are participant reimbursements provided? If so, how are they provided?

	Yes, by the intermediary
	Yes, by the subcontractor
	No

SUBCONTRACTOR: MISSOULA WORKS

INTERMEDIARY: MAXIMUS

Which E&T Services are offered by this subcontractor?

	Basic / Foundational Skills Instruction
	Career / Technical Education Programs or other Vocational Training
	Case Management Services
	English Language Acquisition
	Job Retention
	Job Search Training
	Self-Employment Training
	WBL - Apprenticeship
	Workfare

Annual Number of SNAP E&T Participants to be Served

Are participant reimbursements provided? If so, how are they provided?

	Yes, by the intermediary
	Yes, by the subcontractor
	No

WBL PROGRAMS OVERVIEW

State agencies must report on each provider that plans to offer a Work-Based Learning (WBL) component, whether it is unsubsidized or subsidized by SNAP E&T funds.

WBL ACTIVITY: COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP NORTHWEST

PROVIDER: COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP NORTHWEST

COMPONENT: WBL - APPRENTICESHIP

What is the length of the activity?

	1 month
	2 months
	3 months
	4 months
	5 months
	6 months
	Greater than 6 months (limited exceptions)

Provide a justification for why the length of the activity is greater than 6 months.

Additional time needed to gain necessary skills and experience.

What is the industry field of the activity?

	Construction
	Education
	Foodservice
	Healthcare service
	Landscape and Horticultural
	Leisure and Hospitality
	Manufacturing
	Retail services
	Transportation and Warehousing
	Other

What is the projected annual number of participants to participate?

What are the training objectives for the activity?

	Attainment of a Credential or Certificate
	Basic skill gains
	Industry skill gains

Will the participants interact with industry professionals in a real-world setting?

	Yes
	No

Will participants receive wages subsidized by another program?

	Yes
	No

Were employers or industry sector representatives consulted in the design and training curriculum?

	Yes
	No

Does the provider use a curriculum that includes career-training objectives that the participant is expected to learn and be able to do by the completion of the training?

	Yes
	No

Are employers or industry professionals involved in the development and/or execution of the training element of the activity?

	Yes
	No

Are the training objectives provided to the participant?

	Yes, by the Provider
	Yes, by Employer of Record
	No

Is there a process for the provider/employer of record to give feedback to the participant on their progress toward meeting the training objective?

	Yes
	No

Provide a brief explanation that describes how the provider focuses on moving participants promptly into regular, unsubsidized employment.

Provider has established employer partners that hire participants out of the program.

Does the work site employer or other industry employer partners hire the majority of the activity graduates?

	Yes
	No
	N/A

Are participant reimbursements/support services provided to SNAP E&T participants for expenses that are reasonable, necessary and directly related to participating in the activity?

	Yes
	No

WBL ACTIVITY: HUMAN RESOURCED DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 6

PROVIDER: HUMAN RESOURCED DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 6

COMPONENT: WBL - APPRENTICESHIP

What is the length of the activity?

	1 month
	2 months
	3 months
	4 months
	5 months
	6 months
	Greater than 6 months (limited exceptions)

Provide a justification for why the length of the activity is greater than 6 months.

Additional time needed to gain necessary skills and experience.

What is the industry field of the activity?

	Construction
	Education
	Foodservice
	Healthcare service
	Landscape and Horticultural
	Leisure and Hospitality
	Manufacturing
	Retail services
	Transportation and Warehousing
	Other

What is the projected annual number of participants to participate?

What are the training objectives for the activity?

	Attainment of a Credential or Certificate
	Basic skill gains
	Industry skill gains

Will the participants interact with industry professionals in a real-world setting?

	Yes
	No

Will participants receive wages subsidized by another program?

	Yes
	No

Were employers or industry sector representatives consulted in the design and training curriculum?

	Yes
	No

Does the provider use a curriculum that includes career-training objectives that the participant is expected to learn and be able to do by the completion of the training?

	Yes
	No

Are employers or industry professionals involved in the development and/or execution of the training element of the activity?

	Yes
	No

Are the training objectives provided to the participant?

	Yes, by the Provider
	Yes, by Employer of Record
	No

Is there a process for the provider/employer of record to give feedback to the participant on their progress toward meeting the training objective?

	Yes
	No

Provide a brief explanation that describes how the provider focuses on moving participants promptly into regular, unsubsidized employment.

Provider has established employer partners that hire participants out of the program.

Does the work site employer or other industry employer partners hire the majority of the activity graduates?

	Yes
	No
	N/A

Are participant reimbursements/support services provided to SNAP E&T participants for expenses that are reasonable, necessary and directly related to participating in the activity?

	Yes
	No

WBL ACTIVITY: HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 7

PROVIDER: HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 7

COMPONENT: WBL - APPRENTICESHIP

What is the length of the activity?

	1 month
	2 months
	3 months
	4 months
	5 months
	6 months
	Greater than 6 months (limited exceptions)

Provide a justification for why the length of the activity is greater than 6 months.

Additional time needed to gain necessary skills and experience.

What is the industry field of the activity?

	Construction
	Education
	Foodservice
	Healthcare service
	Landscape and Horticultural
	Leisure and Hospitality
	Manufacturing
	Retail services
	Transportation and Warehousing
	Other

What is the projected annual number of participants to participate?

What are the training objectives for the activity?

	Attainment of a Credential or Certificate
	Basic skill gains
	Industry skill gains

Will the participants interact with industry professionals in a real-world setting?

	Yes
	No

Will participants receive wages subsidized by another program?

	Yes
	No

Were employers or industry sector representatives consulted in the design and training curriculum?

	Yes
	No

Does the provider use a curriculum that includes career-training objectives that the participant is expected to learn and be able to do by the completion of the training?

	Yes
	No

Are employers or industry professionals involved in the development and/or execution of the training element of the activity?

	Yes
	No

Are the training objectives provided to the participant?

	Yes, by the Provider
	Yes, by Employer of Record
	No

Is there a process for the provider/employer of record to give feedback to the participant on their progress toward meeting the training objective?

	Yes
	No

Provide a brief explanation that describes how the provider focuses on moving participants promptly into regular, unsubsidized employment.

Provider has established employer partners that hire participants out of the program.

Does the work site employer or other industry employer partners hire the majority of the activity graduates?

	Yes
	No
	N/A

Are participant reimbursements/support services provided to SNAP E&T participants for expenses that are reasonable, necessary and directly related to participating in the activity?

	Yes
	No

WBL ACTIVITY: MAXIMUS

PROVIDER: MAXIMUS

COMPONENT: WBL - APPRENTICESHIP

What is the length of the activity?

	1 month
	2 months
	3 months
	4 months
	5 months
	6 months
	Greater than 6 months (limited exceptions)

Provide a justification for why the length of the activity is greater than 6 months.

Additional time needed to gain necessary skills and experience.

What is the industry field of the activity?

	Construction
	Education
	Foodservice
	Healthcare service
	Landscape and Horticultural
	Leisure and Hospitality
	Manufacturing
	Retail services
	Transportation and Warehousing
	Other

What is the projected annual number of participants to participate?

What are the training objectives for the activity?

	Attainment of a Credential or Certificate
	Basic skill gains
	Industry skill gains

Will the participants interact with industry professionals in a real-world setting?

	Yes
	No

Will participants receive wages subsidized by another program?

	Yes
	No

Were employers or industry sector representatives consulted in the design and training curriculum?

	Yes
	No

Does the provider use a curriculum that includes career-training objectives that the participant is expected to learn and be able to do by the completion of the training?

	Yes
	No

Are employers or industry professionals involved in the development and/or execution of the training element of the activity?

	Yes
	No

Are the training objectives provided to the participant?

	Yes, by the Provider
	Yes, by Employer of Record
	No

Is there a process for the provider/employer of record to give feedback to the participant on their progress toward meeting the training objective?

	Yes
	No

Provide a brief explanation that describes how the provider focuses on moving participants promptly into regular, unsubsidized employment.

Provider works directly with employers to hire participants out of the program.

Does the work site employer or other industry employer partners hire the majority of the activity graduates?

	Yes
	No
	N/A

Are participant reimbursements/support services provided to SNAP E&T participants for expenses that are reasonable, necessary and directly related to participating in the activity?

	Yes
	No

WBL ACTIVITY: MISSOULA WORKS

PROVIDER: MISSOULA WORKS

COMPONENT: WBL - APPRENTICESHIP

What is the length of the activity?

	1 month
	2 months
	3 months
	4 months
	5 months
	6 months
	Greater than 6 months (limited exceptions)

Provide a justification for why the length of the activity is greater than 6 months.

Additional time needed to gain necessary skills and experience.

What is the industry field of the activity?

	Construction
	Education
	Foodservice
	Healthcare service
	Landscape and Horticultural
	Leisure and Hospitality
	Manufacturing
	Retail services
	Transportation and Warehousing
	Other

What is the projected annual number of participants to participate?

What are the training objectives for the activity?

	Attainment of a Credential or Certificate
	Basic skill gains
	Industry skill gains

Will the participants interact with industry professionals in a real-world setting?

	Yes
	No

Will participants receive wages subsidized by another program?

	Yes
	No

Were employers or industry sector representatives consulted in the design and training curriculum?

	Yes
	No

Does the provider use a curriculum that includes career-training objectives that the participant is expected to learn and be able to do by the completion of the training?

	Yes
	No

Are employers or industry professionals involved in the development and/or execution of the training element of the activity?

	Yes
	No

Are the training objectives provided to the participant?

	Yes, by the Provider
	Yes, by Employer of Record
	No

Is there a process for the provider/employer of record to give feedback to the participant on their progress toward meeting the training objective?

	Yes
	No

Provide a brief explanation that describes how the provider focuses on moving participants promptly into regular, unsubsidized employment.

Provider has established employer partners that hire participants out of the program.

Does the work site employer or other industry employer partners hire the majority of the activity graduates?

	Yes
	No
	N/A

Are participant reimbursements/support services provided to SNAP E&T participants for expenses that are reasonable, necessary and directly related to participating in the activity?

	Yes
	No

OPERATING BUDGET

The regulations at 7 CFR 273.7(c)(6) outline State agencies must include an operating budget for the year. Complete all cost categories, as applicable. Note that the cost categories, outside of the contractual or county administered program line items, apply only to the State agency costs. The calculated values will automatically display upon selecting the Quick Save button.

Direct Program and Admin Costs

Salary/Wages (State agency only)	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Salary/Wages (State agency only)	$0.00	$87,755.20	$87,755.20

List Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staff positions, percentage of time spent on the project, and average annual salary of each position. Example: E&T Manager - $60,000 * .50 FTE = $30,000; 5 E&T Counselors = $25,000 * 1.00 FTEs * 5 = $125,000.

E&T Coordinator: $68,508.96 x 1.0 FTE = $68,536.00
Program Supervisor: $76,876.80 x 0.25 FTE= $19,219.20

Fringe Benefits	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Fringe Benefits	$0.00	$35,102.08	$35,102.08

Explain how fringe benefits are calculated and clearly explain how the amount listed was determined. If charging fringe benefits to the E&T program, provide the approved fringe rates.

E&T Coordinator: $68,508.96 x 0.4 =$ $27,414.40 fringe benefits
Program Supervisor: Wages $19,219.20 x 0.4 = $7,687.68 fringe benefits

Non-Capital Equipment	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Non-Capital Equipment	$0.00	$240.00	$240.00

Describe non-capital equipment and supplies to be purchased with E&T funds.

$240 is for workers compensation coverage for participants in a workfare placement. Estimating $9.60 per participant per year (25 participants estimated)

Materials	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Materials	$0.00	$790.51	$790.51

Describe materials to be purchased with E&T funds.

Office supplies: paper, pens, printing, postage/shipping, electronic equipment or accessories such as headset, speakers, external webcam, etc.

Travel	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Travel	$0.00	$9,160.30	$9,160.30

Describe the purpose and frequency of staff travel charged to the E&T program. This should not include E&T participant reimbursements for transportation. Include planned staff training and registration costs for training that will be charged to E&T funds.

DPHHS staff will travel to provide SNAP E&T training to Maximus and monitor local SNAP E&T programs sites.
DPHHS staff will attend any regional or national FNS SNAP E&T trainings.

Building Space	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Building Space	$0.00	$8,652.00	$8,652.00

Explain how building space is calculated and clearly explain how the amount listed above was determined. If charging building space to the E&T program, describe the method used to calculate space value.

Administrative Specialist Office Rent $8,652/Year.
Method used to calculate: They take the value of the lease divided by the total square footage of the building. This gives us the value per square ft. We then measure every cube/office before move in and as they are assigned we then know how many square feet will be charged to the program occupying the space. Common areas and conference rooms are then based on a percentage. The programs that are occupying the building (or floor) are assigned a percentage based on the occupied space. Then the unoccupied space (common areas and conference rooms) are then charged out by percentage.

Equipment and other capital expenditures	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Equipment and other capital expenditures	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00

Describe equipment and other capital expenditures over $5,000 per item that will be charged to E&T funds. (In accordance with 2 CFR 200.407, prior written approval from FNS is required.)

None

Direct Program and Admin Costs	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Subtotal / State Agency Costs Only	$0.00	$141,700.09	$141,700.09
Contractual Costs	$543,674.00	$566,307.00	$1,109,981.00
County Administered Direct Program Admin Cost	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00
Total Direct Program and Admin Costs	$543,674.00	$708,007.09	$1,251,681.09

Indirect Costs - Using Indirect Cost Rate

Indirect Costs - Using Indirect Cost Rate	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Indirect Costs	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00

Indirect costs (also called overhead costs) are allowable activities that support the E&T program, but are charged directly to the State agency. If using an indirect cost rate approved by the contingent agency, upload the approval letter.

Indirect Costs - Using Federally Approved Cost Allocation Plan

Indirect Costs - Using Federally Approved Cost Allocation Plan	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Federally Approved Cost Allocated Costs - State agency only	$0.00	$25,970.91	$25,970.91
County Administered Allocated Costs (only applicable to County Administered Programs)	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00
Total Allocated Costs based on Cost Allocation Plan	$0.00	$25,970.91	$25,970.91

In-kind Contribution

In-kind Contribution	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
State In-kind Contribution	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00
Total Administrative Costs	$543,674.00	$733,978.00	$1,277,652.00

Participant Reimbursements

Participant Reimbursements	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Dependent Care	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00
Transportation & Other Costs	$131,250.00	$131,250.00	$262,500.00
State Agency Cost for Dependent Care	$0.00	Not Applicable-	$0.00
Total Participant Reimbursements	$131,250.00	$131,250.00	$262,500.00

Total Costs

Total Costs	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
Total Cost	$674,924.00	$865,228.00	$1,540,152.00

FUNDING SOURCES

Fields for the Funding Sources section will populate from other sections, such as the Operating Budget section or annual allocations decided by FNS OET.

The system will provide the States 100 percent allocation as well as the target for the total 50/50 funds, as provided in the annual E&T final allocation memo.

State agencies may enter funds into the field "100 Percent Federal Grant - Additional Funds" for planning purposes. This field must be blank before initial submission. State agencies that wish to request additional 100% funds can do so via the Funding Requests tab. If the request is approved, State agencies will see the approved amount populated in this field, and a new State Plan Amendment must be submitted.

The system utilizes a formula that distributes administrative costs to the various funding sources (i.e. 100 percent Federal, 50 percent Federal Admin and 50 percent Non-Federal Admin.) The formula also establishes a funding hierarchy for the use of all available 100 percent Federal funds. This funding hierarchy will assign the planned administrative expenses against the regular 100 Federal grant first, then depending upon availability, against additional 100 percent funds, able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) pledge funds, if applicable. Any planned costs over the available 100 percent funds will be evenly distributed against the 50 percent Admin funds.

The planned expenses shown for the field "100% Federal Grant" will be inclusive of the formula allocation, as well as any additional Federal funds approved. Fields in the column “Distribution of Planned Expenses” are populated from the planned expenses table. States can use this table to extrapolate figures, but cannot submit the form until 100% of Federal additional funds under the "Allocation or Target" column has been removed.

SNAP Employment and Training Funding Sources

Source Type	Funding Sources	Allocation or Target	Distribution of Planned Expenses	Over/Under Allocation/Target or Over/Under Planned Expenses	Percent of Allocation Planned Use
Federal	100 Percent Federal Grant	$190,304.00	$190,304.00	$0.00	100.00%
Federal	100 Percent Federal Grant - Additional Funds	$0.00	$0.00	$0.00	Not Applicable-
Federal	ABAWD Pledge Grant		$0.00	$0.00	Not Applicable-
Federal	Total - All 100 Percent Funds	$190,304.00	$190,304.00	$0.00	Not Applicable-
Federal	50 Percent Administrative	Not Applicable-	$543,674.00	Not Applicable-	Not Applicable-
Non-Federal	50 Percent Administrative	Not Applicable-	$543,674.00	Not Applicable-	Not Applicable-
Federal	50 Percent Participant Reimbursements	Not Applicable-	$131,250.00	Not Applicable-	Not Applicable-
Non-Federal	50 Percent Participant Reimbursements	Not Applicable-	$131,250.00	Not Applicable-	Not Applicable-
Federal	Total 50 Percent Federal Target	$553,880.00	$674,924.00	$121,044.00	Not Applicable-
Total	All Sources	$744,184.00	$1,540,152.00	Not Applicable-	Not Applicable-

Total Fiscal Year Plan Funding

Funding Sources	Non-Federal Share	Federal Share	Total
100 Percent Federal Grant	Not Applicable-	$190,304.00	$190,304.00
ABAWD Pledge Grant	Not Applicable-	$0.00	$0.00
50 Percent Administrative	$543,674.00	$543,674.00	$1,087,348.00
50 Percent Dependent Care	$0.00	$0.00	Not Applicable-
50 Percent Transportation/Other	$131,250.00	$131,250.00	Not Applicable-
50 Percent Total Participant Reimbursements	$131,250.00	$131,250.00	$262,500.00
Total 50 Percent Funds	$674,924.00	$674,924.00	$1,349,848.00
Total	$674,924.00	$865,228.00	$1,540,152.00

PLEDGE TO SERVE ALL ABAWDS

The Act authorizes FNS to allocate $20 million annually to State agencies that commit, or pledge, to ensuring the availability of education, training, or workfare opportunities that permit able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) to remain eligible beyond the 3-month time limit.

To be eligible for these additional funds (pledge funds), State agencies must pledge to offer and provide an opportunity in a work program that meets the participation requirements of 7 CFR 273.24 to every applicant and recipient who is in the last month of the 3-month time limit and not otherwise exempt. Individuals are exempt from the time limit if they meet an exception under 7 CFR 273.24(c), reside in an area covered by a waiver in accordance with 7 CFR 273.24(f), or who are exempted by the State under 7 CFR 273.24(g).

Is the State agency pledging to offer qualifying activities to all ABAWDs subject to the criteria under 7 CFR 273.7(d)(3)(i)?

	Yes
	No

USDA FNS SNAP E&T STATE PLAN

KEY PROGRAM STAFF

AMENDMENT LOG

ACRONYMS

SUMMARY OF PROGRAM

PROGRAM CHANGES

CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION WITH THE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM

Consultation

Coordination

CONSULTATION WITH INDIAN TRIBAL ORGANIZATIONS (ITOs)

UTILIZATION OF STATE OPTIONS

CHARACTERISTICS OF INDIVIDUALS SERVED BY E&T

Estimated Participant Levels

State Exemptions

ABAWDs

E&T Participants

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

SCREENING FOR WORK REGISTRATION

SCREENING FOR REFERRAL TO E&T

REFERRAL TO E&T

ASSESSMENT

CONCILIATION PROCESS

CASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES

GOOD CAUSE

PROVIDER DETERMINATIONS

DISQUALIFICATION POLICY FOR GENERAL WORK REQUIREMENTS

PARTICIPANT REIMBURSEMENTS

PARTICIPANT REIMBURSEMENT DETAILS

WORK REGISTRANT DATA

OUTCOME REPORTING MEASURES

COMPONENTS OVERVIEW

NON-EDUCATION, NON-WORK COMPONENT: JOB RETENTION

NON-EDUCATION, NON-WORK COMPONENT: JOB SEARCH TRAINING

NON-EDUCATION, NON-WORK COMPONENT: SELF-EMPLOYMENT TRAINING

NON-EDUCATION, NON-WORK COMPONENT: WORKFARE

EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT: BASIC / FOUNDATIONAL SKILLS INSTRUCTION

EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT: CAREER / TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS OR OTHER VOCATIONAL TRAINING

EDUCATIONAL COMPONENT: ENGLISH LANGUAGE ACQUISITION

WORK EXPERIENCE COMPONENT: APPRENTICESHIP

CONTRACTS OVERVIEW

CONTRACTOR: MAXIMUS

SUBCONTRACTOR: COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP NORTHWEST

INTERMEDIARY: MAXIMUS

SUBCONTRACTOR: GREAT FALLS COLLEGE

INTERMEDIARY: MAXIMUS

SUBCONTRACTOR: HUMAN RESOURCED DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 6

INTERMEDIARY: MAXIMUS

SUBCONTRACTOR: HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 7

INTERMEDIARY: MAXIMUS

SUBCONTRACTOR: MISSOULA WORKS

INTERMEDIARY: MAXIMUS

WBL PROGRAMS OVERVIEW

WBL ACTIVITY: COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP NORTHWEST

PROVIDER: COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP NORTHWEST

COMPONENT: WBL - APPRENTICESHIP

WBL ACTIVITY: HUMAN RESOURCED DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 6

PROVIDER: HUMAN RESOURCED DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 6

COMPONENT: WBL - APPRENTICESHIP

WBL ACTIVITY: HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 7

PROVIDER: HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT 7

COMPONENT: WBL - APPRENTICESHIP

WBL ACTIVITY: MAXIMUS

PROVIDER: MAXIMUS

COMPONENT: WBL - APPRENTICESHIP

WBL ACTIVITY: MISSOULA WORKS

PROVIDER: MISSOULA WORKS

COMPONENT: WBL - APPRENTICESHIP

WBL PROGRAMS OVERVIEW

OPERATING BUDGET

Direct Program and Admin Costs

Indirect Costs - Using Indirect Cost Rate

Indirect Costs - Using Federally Approved Cost Allocation Plan

In-kind Contribution

Participant Reimbursements

Total Costs

FUNDING SOURCES

SNAP Employment and Training Funding Sources

Total Fiscal Year Plan Funding

PLEDGE TO SERVE ALL ABAWDS