Factcheck: State Data Debunks Claims of Widespread SNAP Fraud in Mississippi

State auditors and officials have found no evidence to support claims of widespread fraud in Mississippi’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), contradicting recent assertions that have circulated among some state lawmakers and on social media.

The Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS), which administers the federal food assistance program in the state, reports that fraud accounts for less than one percent of all SNAP benefits distributed in Mississippi. This figure aligns with national statistics from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees the program at the federal level.

“We take program integrity extremely seriously,” said Bob Anderson, Executive Director of MDHS. “Our data consistently shows that instances of fraud are rare and isolated, not systemic as some have suggested.”

The clarification comes after several state legislators claimed during recent committee hearings that SNAP fraud was “rampant” in Mississippi, with some suggesting that as much as 20 percent of benefits might be improperly distributed. These claims quickly gained traction on various social media platforms despite lacking factual support.

Mississippi State Auditor Shad White, whose office is responsible for investigating public assistance fraud, confirms that while his team actively pursues cases of misuse, the data does not support claims of widespread abuse.

“We investigate every credible tip we receive about potential SNAP fraud,” White said. “While we do uncover cases that require prosecution, the overall numbers simply don’t support the narrative that this is a pervasive problem draining state resources.”

SNAP benefits represent a significant safety net for many Mississippians. The program currently serves approximately 420,000 residents—about 14 percent of the state’s population—with an average monthly benefit of $225 per person. The federal government fully funds the benefit payments, while administrative costs are shared between federal and state governments.

Food security advocates express concern that exaggerated claims about fraud could stigmatize legitimate recipients and potentially lead to policy changes that harm vulnerable populations.

“The overwhelming majority of SNAP recipients are children, elderly, disabled, or working adults with low wages,” explained Carol Jenkins, director of the Mississippi Food Network. “Spreading misinformation about widespread fraud can discourage eligible families from seeking assistance they genuinely need.”

The state’s robust verification system may contribute to the low fraud rate. MDHS employs a multi-layered approach to prevent misuse, including income verification, regular eligibility reviews, and cross-checking with other government databases.

When fraud is detected, the consequences can be severe. Recipients found to have intentionally violated program rules can face disqualification from the program, repayment requirements, and in serious cases, criminal prosecution.

Common violations include providing false information on applications, failing to report changes in household circumstances that would affect eligibility, or selling SNAP benefits for cash—a practice known as “trafficking.”

Mississippi’s approach to SNAP enforcement mirrors the federal government’s increased emphasis on program integrity over the past decade. The USDA has implemented enhanced verification systems and data analytics to identify suspicious patterns, resulting in a nationwide reduction in improper payments.

Economic experts point out that beyond helping individuals and families, SNAP benefits generate significant economic activity in local communities. The USDA estimates that every $5 in SNAP benefits generates approximately $9 in economic activity, as the money is spent quickly at local grocery stores and markets.

State Representative Omeria Scott, who serves on the House Public Health and Human Services Committee, urged colleagues to focus on data rather than anecdotes when discussing public assistance programs.

“These are evidence-based programs with measurable outcomes,” Scott noted. “Policy discussions should be grounded in factual information, not speculation or isolated incidents that don’t represent the broader reality.”

MDHS encourages anyone with information about potential SNAP fraud to report it through their hotline or website, emphasizing that targeting actual fraud helps preserve resources for those truly in need.