FoodShare: Renewals

FoodShare benefits update: end of federal government shutdown

The government shutdown is over and the federal government is now open. We do not anticipate any further disruptions of FoodShare benefits for the remainder of the federal fiscal year. FoodShare benefits are fully funded through September 30, 2026. FoodShare members may continue to use benefits on their QUEST cards. For updates, visit the FoodShare News page.

Complete your FoodShare renewal to keep getting benefits

When you first applied for FoodShare, you told us about your household, such as your income and assets. We need to check that information and get updates to see if you can keep getting benefits. This happens yearly for most people. This process is called a renewal.

It’s important to start your renewal as soon as we notify you it’s due in case we have questions or need to verify your information. All of your steps for your renewal have to be done by your renewal date or you won’t get all your benefits the next month.

What to expect at renewal time

You'll get a renewal letter in the mail about two weeks before the start of the month when your renewal is due. It tells you what you need to do and the deadline.
You'll need to update the information we have on file, like your household details, income, and assets. We may ask you to submit documents that prove your answers.

How do I complete my renewal?

The easiest way to renew your benefits is through your ACCESS account. Renew online using ACCESS (ACCESS in Spanish). If you don't have an ACCESS account, you can create one now. Once you've logged in, look for the alert that says “Benefit Renewals Due For” and click the program name to get started.
Renew online using ACCESS
You can also renew FoodShare by mail. Simply review, make changes, and return the prefilled renewal letter we sent you in the mail.
You can also renew by phone or in person at your local agency.
When you renew FoodShare, you may need to complete an interview.
Your agency will follow up if they need more information. You will get a letter telling you if you need to submit documents that confirm your information.
You must complete your renewal, do an interview (if required), and submit any documents we ask you for by the last business day of your renewal month. If you don’t, you won’t get full benefits in the month after your renewal was due.
For example, if you submit your renewal and complete your interview on time, but don’t send us your documents until the 15^th of the following month, you’ll only get about half of your FoodShare benefits.
When your agency has finished processing your renewal, you will get a letter that tells you if your benefits are staying the same or changing.

An adult and a young child shopping in the produce section, looking at apples

When do I renew?

Each FoodShare member has an assigned renewal date. To find yours:

Check the letter mailed to you from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
Log in to your ACCESS account or use the MyACCESS app. If you don't have an account, create one on ACCESS to see your benefits information anytime, anywhere.

What happens if I submit my renewal late?

You can renew your benefits up to one month late without having to reapply, but there will be time when you are not getting FoodShare benefits.
For example, if you submit your renewal late, then complete your interview, and send us your documents before they are due, your benefits will start from the date you submitted your renewal.
If you wait longer than one month after your renewal due date to renew your benefits, you will have to reapply to get FoodShare again.

Need help with your renewal?

Contact your local agency right away. Your agency may be able to help you and answer questions you might have with completing your renewal.