Iowa’s error rate in determining food assistance benefits was cut nearly in half last year, the Iowa Department of Human Services said today.

Federal officials rank the state as the fifth-most improved in accurately determining benefits. The error rate was 3.36 percent in fiscal year 2010, compared with 6.49 percent in the previous year.

The national error rate for 2010 was 3.81 percent, and Iowa placed No. 19 overall. Officials credit a growing use of electronic case files, which enable workers to evaluate applications from any part of the state.

The department said the number of people receiving food assistance has grown from 352,000 in September to 382,000 in May.

For more information on food assistance programs, click here.