Abstract: This report addresses the issue of whether federal regulations and certain state and local office practices and procedures may discourage or prevent eligible persons from participating in the Food Stamp Program. The report examines how food stamp offices process first-time applications, applications for additional benefits, and changes in household circumstances. GAO sought to identify whether potentially eligible households may have been discouraged or prevented from participating in the Food Stamp Program. The goal of this research is to identify and alleviate administrative hindrances that may be unduly restricting food stamp participation.