Specifications include, but are not limited to: The Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) administers and operates the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system that allows DHS customers to access their cash and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) benefits. The EBT system is the method the state uses to distribute SNAP (formerly food stamps) and cash benefits. The name of the state EBT system is Illinois Link. The current Illinois EBT Link contract expires December 31, 2012. For the next contract, the Illinois Link system will distribute only SNAP food benefits, and solicit information from vendors on WIC distribution, with DHS’ option to add WIC benefits at some point during the contract. Cash assistance benefits will not be distributed through the Illinois Link system under the next contract. The U.S. Department of Agriculture ‘s (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) requires that the State submit a Request for Proposal (RFP) to them for review 2 years prior to the expiration date of the current contract. Therefore, the Illinois Link RFP must be completed and ready for submission to FNS by September 30, 2010. These RFP’s ensure that the state EBT system is current with the most up to date technology. In order to meet this requirement, DHS wants to contract with a vendor to draft the Request for Proposal (RFP) that would identify a vendor capable of this task. The RFP to be drafted will build upon and continue the Illinois EBT LINK system, basically as it currently functions with modifications, as specified by DHS. First-hand experience with the operation of an EBT system is preferred. The vendor shall have experience of the EBT systems, Illinois Link, and all state and federal requirements for EBT systems. The vendor shall have experience in developing RFP’s, knowledge of the bid evaluation process, writing federal waivers, and developing policies and procedures related to EBT. These skills are needed as prerequisite background for making recommendations that will move the State to the next generation of the Illinois Link system.
