Alabama DHR Launches ACES Pilot Program for SNAP and TANF Systems

Alabama Launches Pilot Program for Combined SNAP and TANF Computer System

The Alabama Department of Human Resources is rolling out a new software platform called the Alabama Combined Eligibility System (ACES) to manage applications and case services for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The software integrates 12 existing systems into a single centralized platform intended to streamline case management for clients, department staff, and workforce placement providers.

Five Alabama Counties Selected for October Pilot Launch

The initial pilot program begins on Monday, October 5, across five specific counties: Montgomery, Elmore, Tuscaloosa, Dallas, and Talladega, as reported by the Alabama Department of Human Resources. During this initial testing phase, SNAP and TANF clients residing in those five counties will start using a new self-service online portal. The platform allows users to submit initial applications, check application statuses, upload recertification documents, and complete other routine case management tasks digitally.

Three Portals Designed for Staff Clients and Providers

ACES introduces three distinct user portals tailored to different participants in the assistance process. DHR employees and caseworkers utilize an internal portal for workflow management. SNAP and TANF clients access a separate self-service portal for their personal applications and document submissions. Workforce placement providers use a third dedicated portal to coordinate services.

“Creating this new eligibility system has been years in the making, but as we prepare for the final phases of launch, we are proud of what this new system will mean to our clients, providers and staff,” DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner stated in an official agency release. Buckner noted that the platform creates a more user-friendly environment for clients and providers while improving overall administrative workflow for department employees.

Mailed Instructions Scheduled for Pilot Participants

The state agency will mail informational letters to SNAP and TANF clients in Montgomery, Elmore, Tuscaloosa, Dallas, and Talladega counties on October 8. These notices contain platform instructions, tips for using the site, and operational expectations for the transition period. Department officials confirmed that benefit issuance dates and the amount of benefits issued will remain unchanged throughout the software rollout.

Tentative Statewide Rollout Targeted for January 2027

State administrators are using the five-county pilot to evaluate system performance and gather feedback from users, providers and staff before expanding the software. If the pilot is successful, DHR plans to launch ACES statewide in January 2027. Access to the digital portal remains restricted exclusively to the pilot counties until the broader rollout occurs.

Frequently Asked Questions About the ACES Rollout

Which counties are participating in the initial software pilot?

The initial pilot program runs in Montgomery, Elmore, Tuscaloosa, Dallas, and Talladega counties, beginning on Monday, October 5.

What specific tasks can clients complete using the new self-service portal?

Clients in the five pilot counties can use the online portal to submit new benefit applications, monitor application statuses, upload recertification documents, and manage other required case tasks.