Family Dept. clarifies PAN recertification process amid public confusion

Family Secretary Suzanne Roig Fuertes

By THE STAR STAFF

A mid confusion sparked by information circulating Wednesday about the recertification process for the Nutritional Assistance Program, known locally as PAN, the island Family Department reiterated that participants who continue to meet eligibility requirements will keep receiving their benefits without interruption.

The agency said it has resumed the regular annual recertification process mandated by the federal government, following several years of extraordinary waivers granted after hurricanes Irma and Maria, the 2020 earthquakes and the COVID‑19 pandemic.

“This is not a new process nor an extraordinary measure. It is a federal requirement that has always been part of the program’s administration and is now being reinstated gradually after the expiration of the waivers granted during the emergencies Puerto Rico faced,” Family Secretary Suzanne Roig Fuertes said.

Roig Fuertes stressed that the perception that benefits are being suspended arbitrarily is incorrect. She noted that before any determination is made, the Administration for the Socioeconomic Development of the Family (ADSEF by its acronym in Spanish) issues multiple notices and communications to inform participants of the need to complete their eligibility review.

“Benefits are not canceled automatically or arbitrarily,” she said. “Participants receive notices, guidance and opportunities to complete their recertification. If a person continues to meet the program’s requirements, they will continue receiving the nutritional assistance they need.”

As part of the reinstated process, ADSEF began reviewing cases involving participants aged 60 or older, as well as individuals who have gone 36 months or more without completing an eligibility evaluation, regardless of age.

The agency reminded the public that completing the recertification is the participant’s responsibility, similar to renewing a driver’s license or updating information for health services.

To facilitate the process, participants have several options. Recertification can be completed virtually through ADSEF Digital, via virtual appointments, by submitting documents electronically, or with direct assistance from agency staff. ADSEF will also expand outreach efforts at Family Markets, through its mobile unit, and via the 3‑1‑1 service line.

Roig Fuertes urged all participants to stay alert to official communications, verify when their review is due, and seek guidance as soon as they receive a notification.

“Our priority is ensuring that every eligible person continues receiving their benefits,” she said. “That is why we have enabled multiple tools and support channels to make the process simple, accessible, and convenient for all participants.”