Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)

Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is sponsored by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Ohio Department of Aging (ODA), and Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging (WRAAA). The SFMNP provides eligible low-income seniors with $50. 00 worth of coupons to purchase fresh, unprepared, locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey from participating farmers.

The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is a federally funded program administered by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) Agency, and in Ohio, by the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA). ODA provides additional state funds to support SFMNP operation within Ohio.

The SFMNP provides low- income older adults with financial benefits to purchase eligible, locally-grown produce at farmers markets, roadside stands and/or farm markets. ## The SFMNP is supplementary to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and to any other Federal, State or local food or nutrition assistance program.

##### The purposes of the SFMNP are to: Provide resources in the form of fresh, nutritious, unprepared, locally-grown fruits, vegetables, honey and fresh, cut herbs from farmers markets, roadside stands, and community support agriculture (CSA) programs to low-income older adults Increase the domestic consumption of agricultural commodities by expanding or aiding in the expansion of domestic farmers markets, roadside stands, and CSAs Develop or aid in the development of new and additional farmers markets, roadside stands, and CSAs ## 2026 Ohio Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program ### Farmer and Farmers Market Applications Now Open!

The Ohio Farmers Market Network (OFMN), in partnership with the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) and the Ohio Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), is excited to support another year of the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)—now enhanced with statewide technology and expanded access for the Plain Community.

In 2024, the program transitioned to **Homegrown Benefits,** a mobile app that streamlines electronic benefits and creates a consistent process for farmers and seniors across Ohio. With your support, **we successfully served 60,000+ seniors and partnered with 300+ farms, farm markets, roadside stands, and farmers markets. ** We’re building on that momentum again in 2026—and we hope you’ll be part of it!

## Apply Now to Participate in 2026 **All vendors (farms, markets, roadside stands) must apply, regardless of previous participation. ** * Returning partners (trained in 2024 or 2025): Training is optional but encouraged for new staff or as a refresher. Register here.

* New partners: Interactive training is required. You may register after submitting your application. ## Enhanced Functionality: * **Dollars & Cents:** No more rounding—accept exact amounts.

* **Daily Reports:** Opt in to receive a daily email summary of your transactions. * **User Access:** Add “Secondary” users without banking access—only “Primary” users can view/edit sensitive info. * **Plain Community Access:** Benefit Recipients can now use their own device to process transactions, similar to Venmo.

More updates will be shared during training, in our partner newsletter, and right here on our website. ## Still have a question? Email us anytime at senior@ohiofarmersmarketnetwork.

org ## Resources for Prospective Farmers and Farmers Markets ### 2025 SFMNP Announcement Technology improvements and additional training opportunities in 2025! ###### Updated March 14, 2025 ### 2026 Farmer, Roadside Stand and/or Farm Market Application (Electronic) For individual farmers, roadside stands and/or farm markets who will process e-SFMNP benefits directly.

###### Updated February 2, 2026 ### 2026 Farmers Markets Application (Electronic) For farmers markets who will process e-SFMNP benefits on behalf of farmers participating in the market. ###### Updated February 2, 2026 ### Code of Federal Regulations, Part 249: Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) Code of Federal Regulations, or CFR, contains the regulations governing all federal programs.

7 CFR part 249 contains the regulations governing the SFMNP. ###### Updated March 31, 2025 ### Code of Federal Regulations, Part 248: Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) Code of Federal Regulations, or CFR, contains the regulations governing all federal programs. 7 CFR part 248 contains the regulations governing the WIC FMNP.

###### Updated February 2, 2026 ### USDA Nondiscrimination Statement In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.

###### Updated March 31, 2025 Interactive training is required for all farmers and farmers markets. Follow this link for a complete list of available training sessions.

###### Updated February 2, 2026 ### 2026 Authorized SFMNP Partner Manual Contains information about S/FMNP policies, rules, and regulations for farmers, market managers, their employees and agents in accordance with 7 CFR part 249, 7 CFR part 248 and Ohio S/FMNP program procedures.

###### Updated February 2, 2026 ### 2026 Farmer, Roadside Stand and/or Farm Market Application (Paper) For individual farmers, roadside stands and/or farm markets who will process S/FMNP benefits directly. ###### Updated February 2, 2026 ### How-To Prepare For and Accept Electronic Benefits This how-to guide will walk you through the process of downloading the Homegrown Benefits mobile app and completing set up.

### Ohio Ethics Law Overview Throughout this document, you will find explanations of the Ohio Ethics Law along with examples and links to previously issued advisory opinions and other commission publications. ###### Updated March 31, 2025 ##### Farmer and Farmers Market FAQs Below are eight of the most asked questions. You can find more than 30 other questions here.

What do I need to participate in electronic SFMNP? * Mobile phone or tablet with functional camera * Access to Wi-Fi or a data plan on device * Bank account that can accept ACH transfers What counties are NOT participating in the electronic SFMNP pilot? Who do I contact if I am a farmer or farmers market in one of the counties NOT participating in electronic SFMNP?

Who is eligible to receive benefits and who should they contact? Why is the program moving to electronic benefits? What is the benefit to me as an Authorized SFMNP Partner?

What does it mean for food to be "clearly marked" as eligible and ineligible at a farm market, roadside stand or farmers market? Can eligible and ineligible items be separated on the table? Is it preferred to be an authorized farmers market or would it be better for farmers to be individually authorized?

How do I navigate multiple locations and/or points of sale? ##### Still have a question? Email us at senior@ohiofarmersmarketnetwork.

org or click the button below. ## Resources for Authorized SFMNP Partners ### Compliance Tool for e-SFMNP Monitoring visits are made to ensure Authorized SFMNP Partners are complying with procedures and regulations of Ohio’s SFMNP, in accordance with 7 CFR part 249. ### Write-On Sign Template (8.

5x11) Printable resource! Hand write, type, laminate and use a dry erase marker... Use this template to share what eligible products you sell.

### "Use Your Benefits Here" Sign Printable resource! Print and hang at your farmers market stand, farm market or roadside stand. ### Farmers Market Currency Best Practices Best practices for currency at authorized farmers markets.

### How-To Conduct an SFMNP Transaction Printable resource! How-to conduct an SFMNP transaction using the Homegrown Benefits mobile app. ###### Updated May 20, 2025 ### VIDEO: How-To Complete an SFMNP Transaction An instructional video for conducting an SFMNP transaction using the Homegrown Benefits mobile app.

###### Updated June 20, 2025 ### Benefits of a Modern SFMNP System Assist Benefit Recipients in understanding the changes implemented by the modernization of Ohio's SFMNP including reduced minimums, forms of payment and where they can use their benefits. ### AAA Contact Information by County Find Area Agency on Aging's contact information according to the county the prospective Benefit Recipient resides in.

### Benefit Acceptance Sign for SFMNP & TANF Farmers Alert customers and Benefit Recipients to the nutrition incentive programs you accept. ### Year-End Authorized Farmers Market Report As required by the USDA, year-end reports for Authorized Farmers Markets are due by November 30, 2024.

### Market/Farmer Agreement Template An agreement template between an authorized farmers market and farmers who wish to participate under their authorization. This is a fillable PDF. ###### Updated May 15, 2026 ### e-SFMNP at Farmers Markets Wondering how it works at a farmers market?

Here's an infographic to demonstrate the process. ### AAA Contact Postcard for Prospective Benefit Recipients Share respective Area Agency on Aging contact information with prospective Benefit Recipients. ### USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form.

###### Updated June 22, 2026 ### 2025 Homegrown Benefits Improvements This document highlights the progress made to improve the user experience in Homegrown Benefits. ###### Updated April 9, 2025 ### USDA Program Discrimination How-To Page Information about how to file a USDA Discrimination Complaint.

###### Updated June 22, 2026 ### Unattended Farm Market and Roadside Stand Sales Receipt Sales receipt template for unattended farm markets and roadside stands operating e-SFMNP. ### Unattended Farm Market and Roadside Stand Best Practices A how-to guide for unattended farm markets and roadside stands to operate e-SFMNP. Printable resource!

A list of fresh, nutritious, unprepared, locally-grown fruits, vegetables, honey, and fresh, cut herbs that are eligible to be purchased with Ohio SFMNP benefits.

###### Updated April 9, 2025 ## Senior Application Opened April 22, 2026 The Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) is proud to provide older Ohioans convenient access to locally grown, fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, fresh-cut herbs, and unprocessed honey through the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). **The application period is open from 12 PM on Wednesday, April 22 until 6:00 PM on Friday, May 22, 2026.

** Eligible Ohioans age 60 and older will once again have access to $50 in fresh locally grown fruits, vegetables, fresh-cut herbs, and unprocessed honey through the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). “The Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is a fantastic way for older Ohioans to get fresh produce from their communities while also helping Ohio farmers find new customers,” said ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy.

“By providing additional methods for older Ohioans to get healthy food into their diets and make smart lifestyle choices, we are continuing our mission to make Ohio the best place to age in the nation. ” **All Ohio seniors, regardless of previous application and/or approval must apply annually to receive benefits. ** **Already have a card?

Keep it handy! ** If you already have a physical benefit card, you may reload it when you apply for 2026 benefits. Please have the card with you when you apply so that you may enter the card number on your application.

**Don’t have a card but want one? Had a card but lost it? ** You may request a new card during the application process.

Cards may take 4-6 weeks to arrive. **Skip the card! Use the mobile app, Homegrown Benefits.

** Click here for a tutorial on downloading and using Homegrown Benefits. With the mobile app, benefits will be automatically loaded and ready for use when the spending period opens on May 15. **Do I have to choose between the card and the mobile app?

** Nope! You may request a physical card or enter the card number you already have AND use the mobile app. No need to choose!

Click here and scroll to the bottom to read frequently asked questions (FAQs) on the Ohio Department of Aging's website. ## Resources for Older Ohioans ### Ohio Department of Aging "About" SFMNP Brochure for Prospective Benefit Recipients The who, what and hows of the Ohio Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). ### Benefits to a Modern SFMNP System A list of improvements to the SFMNP system as a result of modernization.

###### Updated May 2, 2025 ### AAA Contact Information by County Find Area Agency on Aging's contact information according to the county the prospective Benefit Recipient resides in. ### How-To Prepare For and Use Benefits A step-by-step guide to preparing for and using benefits from the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP).

###### Updated May 1, 2025 ### How-To Prepare For and Use Benefits (Visual Guide) A step-by-step, visual guide to preparing for and using benefits from the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). ###### Updated May 1, 2025 ### How-To Download Homegrown Benefits Mobile App on Apple Device (Visual Guide) A step-by-step, visual guide to downloading the Homegrown Benefits mobile app.

###### Updated July 23, 2024 ### VIDEO: How-To Download Homegrown Benefits Mobile App on Apple Device A video tutorial for downloading the Homegrown Benefits mobile app. ### How-To Download Homegrown Benefits Mobile App on Android Device (Visual Guide) A step-by-step, visual guide to downloading the Homegrown Benefits mobile app.

###### Updated July 23, 2024 ### VIDEO: How-To Download Homegrown Benefits Mobile App on Android Device A video tutorial for downloading the Homegrown Benefits mobile app. ### Application for the SFMNP for Benefit Recipients (electronic) Application closed May 22, 2026. This application is for older Ohioans who wish to apply for benefits online directly with the State of Ohio Department of Aging.

###### Updated June 15, 2026 ### How-To Apply for Benefits How-to apply for Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) benefits. ###### Updated May 1, 2025 ### How-To Use SFMNP Benefits (Visual Guide) A step-by-step, visual guide to using benefits from the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP).

###### Updated May 1, 2025 ### VIDEO: How-To Use Homegrown Benefits Mobile App A video tutorial on using the Homegrown Benefits mobile app. ### How-To Use SFMNP Benefits with a Plain Community Farmer (Visual Guide) A step-by-step, visual guide to using benefits from the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) with a Plain Community (Amish, Mennonite, etc.) farmer.

###### Updated May 1, 2025 ### VIDEO: How-To Use SFMNP Benefits with a Plain Community Farmer A step-by-step video tutorial for using Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) benefits with a Plain Community (Amish, Mennonite, etc.) farmer.

###### Updated July 2, 2025 ### How-To Manage Your Homegrown Benefits Account (Visual Guide) A step-by-step, visual guide to managing your Homegrown Benefits account including checking your balance, viewing your history and changing your password. ###### Updated May 1, 2025 ### FAQ for SFMNP Benefit Recipients The most frequently asked questions regarding the Ohio Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program.

###### Updated July 21, 2026 ##### Benefit Recipients FAQs Below are the most asked questions. You can find more than 30 other questions here. Who is eligible to receive benefits and who should they contact?

You are eligible to receive benefits from the Ohio Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program if: * You are age 60 or older, * You live in one of the 81 counties that participate in the program, and * You have a household income that falls within certain guidelines. Contact information for the Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) can be found here. Are 2026 SFMNP benefits really gone?

How are 2026 SFMNP benefits gone already? But I already have a card, why aren’t benefits just renewed? When are SFMNP benefits available to spend?

How long does it take for my physical card to arrive? How do I use the mobile app, Homegrown Benefits? Where can I use my SFMNP benefits?

##### Still have a question? Email us at senior@ohiofarmersmarketnetwork. org or click the button below.