This year will be a year of big changes to public benefits for many families after we see increased benefits and flexibilities across public programs like Medicaid and SNAP begin to unwind as the coronavirus pandemic (hopefully) eases up. To help families prepare for the end of these temporary COVID-19 flexibilities and enhanced benefits, AOF is releasing our winter checklist for families to ensure they continue to receive the benefits and tax credits they’re eligible for. We’re encouraging families to:
File your 2021 tax return-Even if you aren’t required or don’t normally file your taxes, be sure to file your 2021 tax return so you can claim the rest of your expanded Child Tax Credit and other funds like the Earned Income Tax Credit.
Free help is available in English and Spanish at getyourrefund.org.
Update your household info- Many people have been displaced or experienced changes in their lives during the pandemic. Update your Medicaid and SNAP cases to make sure you keep your benefits and know when deadlines are coming up. Call 1-844-640-6446 or go to jfs.ohio.gov and click County Directory.
Keep your child’s school informed-Schools need to keep your info up-to-date so your child(ren) receive available free or reduced-price school meals and Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) funds. Learn more at ohiopebt.org.
If your child is out of school because of a COVID-19 related reason, make sure to report the reason for their absence to your child’s school so that they may receive P-EBT funds for qualifying absences.
Even if your child is receiving free school meals during the COVID-19 pandemic, submit a new National School Meals Program application to your school so that they do not lose access if they are still eligible after the pandemic.
Check on other benefits & programs- Go to ohiofoodbanks.org/get-help to find out more
Find our full winter checklist HERE and
use this social media graphic to help us share with Ohio families!
