SNAP Payment Accuracy Innovation Effort #BEN-26-034

Background
The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) administers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through a locally administered model across 120 Local Departments of Social Services (LDSS). This structure has led to challenges in ensuring consistent application of federal and state rules, resulting in a higher-than-expected SNAP Payment Error Rate (PER). VDSS aims to improve SNAP payment accuracy while maintaining timely program access and customer service. The agency is seeking innovative strategies, technologies, and practices from suppliers to effectively reduce the SNAP PER, which is currently above federal thresholds.

Work Details
VDSS seeks information on solutions and services that can help reduce the SNAP PER while preserving program access and timeliness. Key areas of interest include:

1. Early-warning analytics for high-risk cases.
2. Actionable dashboards for continuous monitoring.
3. Pre-issuance quality controls to flag risky cases for review.
4. Decision support tools for caseworkers.
5. Client-centered communication tools for document submission and updates.
6. Automated verification and data matching processes.
7. Workflow analysis to identify bottlenecks and improve performance.
8. Change management strategies including training and knowledge-sharing across LDSS agencies.

Period of Performance
The period of performance is not explicitly defined in the RFI; however, VDSS expects early measurable improvements within the first six (6) to twelve (12) months of implementation if a procurement moves forward.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed within the Commonwealth of Virginia, specifically across various Local Departments of Social Services.

Bidder Requirements
VDSS encourages responses from small, women-owned, and minority-owned businesses as part of its commitment to increasing procurement opportunities for these groups. Suppliers must adhere to all applicable Commonwealth security requirements.