Great news for Massachusetts farmers!
The Healey-Driscoll Administration has announced that it will reopen the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) to new farmers and vendors during this fiscal year.
This exciting milestone is the result of the collective advocacy of farmers, organizations, and community members who worked to demonstrate the importance of expanding HIP access while securing funding in this year’s state budget.
The announcement was made in the Administration’s press release and celebrated during a recent event recognizing $100 million in lifetime HIP benefits provided to Massachusetts families.
If you’ve been waiting to participate in HIP, now is the time to begin preparing.
What is HIP?
The Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) helps SNAP recipients purchase fresh fruits and vegetables directly from local farms. When customers use their SNAP benefits at participating farms, they receive money back on their EBT card to spend on future SNAP purchases.
HIP increases access to healthy food while supporting local farmers and strengthening Massachusetts’ food system.
How to Become a HIP Vendor
While enrollment is expected to reopen soon, there are a few important steps you can take now.
Step 1: Become a SNAP Retailer
Before you can participate in HIP, you’ll need to become an authorized SNAP retailer through USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS).
Massachusetts recommends beginning your application as a “Store” and selecting “Direct Marketing Farmer” when prompted.
You’ll also need to provide:
- Photo identification
- Social Security documentation
- Business documentation
- Any additional information requested by USDA
- See more here
Step 2: Set Up EBT Processing
Once approved, you’ll receive your USDA FNS authorization number and can obtain EBT processing equipment.
Massachusetts notes that farms and farmers markets may qualify for free landline EBT equipment through Conduent, while other processing options may also be available. See more on EBT processing here.
Step 3: Become HIP Enabled
SNAP authorization alone does not make you a HIP vendor.
The Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) must separately approve your business for HIP, and each payment terminal must be enabled before HIP transactions can be processed.
Step 4: Additional Steps for CSAs
If you operate a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, DTA must approve both your HIP participation and your SNAP CSA program before HIP benefits can be processed.
Getting Ready Now
You don’t have to wait for enrollment to reopen before preparing.
Here’s a simple checklist:
✔ Gather your business documentation
✔ Apply for SNAP retailer authorization
✔ Set up EBT processing
✔ Contact DTA regarding HIP vendor enrollment
✔ Ensure each payment terminal (and CSA program, if applicable) is HIP-enabled
Helpful Resources
- Massachusetts SNAP and HIP at Farms and Farmers Markets (link)
- Massachusetts HIP for Farmers and Farm Vendors (link)
- Healthy Incentives Program & SNAP: Step-by-Step Farm Retailer Guide (link)
Why It Matters
HIP is one of Massachusetts’ most successful food access programs, helping families purchase more fresh fruits and vegetables while creating new market opportunities for local farmers.
With enrollment expected to reopen this fiscal year, now is the perfect time to prepare your farm to participate.
Date posted: 7/28/26
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