IM-36 April 22, 2010; IM-26 March 19, 2004; IM-14 January 23, 2003
When an Eligibility Unit (EU) is determined eligible for Food Stamps, a definite certification period is assigned. The certification period begins with the first month the EU is eligible to receive benefits including a month when the benefits prorate to zero. For reapplication approvals, the new certification period begins with the first month of the new certification period. Food Stamp eligibility ends with the expiration of the certification period.
To receive benefits after the certification period has expired, the EU must reapply and be determined eligible.