The Right to Financial Privacy Act protects your checking account records. Because of the Act, Government authorities may access the information through a court order, subpoena, legitimate law enforcement request or with your permission. However, state and federal regulations may require access to your bank account – including recent statements, deposits and withdrawals – to determine food stamp eligibility. Unfortunately, though most applicants for the food stamp program are just those who truly need the assistance, some people do take advantage, leading to the institution of these checks and balances.
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Your Department of Social Services or food stamp issuing office may request current bank statements as part of the application process. The Federal Government requires verification of citizenship, income, Social Security numbers and other qualifying information. Additional verification methods is an option that is decided on a state-by-state basis.
