MONTGOMERY– Alabama DHR will begin testing its new ACES system for SNAP and TANF on Monday, Oct. 5. The pilot will cover Montgomery, Elmore, Tuscaloosa, Dallas, and Talladega counties.
The Alabama Department of Human Resources announced the Alabama Combined Eligibility System, known as ACES, on Thursday. It will combine 12 existing systems into one platform for clients, caseworkers, and workforce placement providers.
However, DHR says the computer-system change will not affect benefit amounts or payment dates. A statewide launch is tentatively planned for January 2027, following a successful pilot.
What Will Change for Clients
The ACES self-service portal will allow clients to apply for benefits and check their application status. They can also submit recertification documents and manage information for both programs through one account.
In addition, DHR’s ACES resource page says clients can request appointments, upload documents, and communicate with caseworkers. The portal will work on smartphones, tablets, and computers.
SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, helps eligible households buy food. Meanwhile, TANF, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, supports services that include temporary cash assistance for eligible families.
The new system will also have separate portals for DHR staff and workforce placement providers. DHR says the provider portal will improve case coordination, communication, and payment submissions.
Commissioner Nancy Buckner said the department has worked on the system for years. She said ACES will make services easier to use while also improving staff workflow.
Pilot Begins October 5; Statewide Launch Remains Tentative
Only clients in the five pilot counties will begin using the new self-service portal Oct. 5. The pilot will test the system for clients, employees, and providers before a broader rollout.
DHR will also mail letters to SNAP and TANF clients in those counties Oct. 8. Those letters will explain the system, offer usage tips, and outline what comes next.
Meanwhile, a notice on MyDHR says pilot-county residents cannot use that site beginning Sept. 25. It directs food-assistance applicants in those counties to their local DHR office between Sept. 25 and Oct. 2.
The October rollout therefore applies to five counties, rather than the entire state. DHR’s January 2027 statewide target depends on a successful pilot.
Where to Find Help
DHR’s ACES information page includes instructional videos, frequently asked questions, and guidance for connecting existing benefits. The department also lists a help desk at 877-269-6191 and an “Ask Ace” chatbot.
Clients should create an ACES account when notified, according to DHR. However, clients who already have an ACES account should avoid creating a duplicate.
The department’s announcement links to the official ACES self-service portal. Workforce placement providers can also find training and support on DHR’s ACES provider page.
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