With the implementation of staggered due dates for timely reapplications, it became possible that a change of circumstances can occur the month after the timely reapplication is received.  Households who provide all information needed to complete a case may have a change in circumstances for the month the application is for prior to the worker completing the case.

These situations are treated similar to initial applications or nontimely reapplications and second month applications taken in the last three days of the previous month.  The household must receive the expedited food stamp benefits in seven days from the date of discovery.

Example - The household is certified through December 2000 and timely reapplies for January 2001 benefits.  The caseworker has until January 10, 2000, to approve this household's application.  On January 3, 2000, the household reports that the only income for the household has stopped.  The income for January is now under the shelter expense and the application is expedited due to a change in circumstances.  Staff must enter the expedited FISU request immediately upon determining expedited eligibility.  The household must receive the expedited food stamp benefits by January 10, 2000. 

Households who receive food stamp benefits may reapply for the next certification up to 60 days prior to the end of certification.  Recently, the number of early timely recertifications, those that reapply in the month prior to the last month of certification, increased.  Households whose food stamp reapplications are nonexpedited must provide information by the last day of the certification.  Households whose food stamp reapplications are expedited and approved in FSU5, must provide information within 30 days.  This policy is not changed.

However, due to system issues that will be resolved with FAMIS, the procedure for closing food stamp cases that are early expedited recertifications is changed.  Do not close a food stamp case for households who reapply early, are expedited, and do not provide verification until the current certification benefits are available.  If the case is closed prior to the benefit availability date, the current certification benefits will be canceled.

Example - A household is currently certified for food stamp benefits through December 2000.  The head of household reapplies for food stamp benefits on 11/07/2000 for January 2001.  The worker enters the application as expedited and completes the FSU5 transaction to approve the case.  The household has 30 days to provide the information.  On the 31st day (12/08/2000), the household has not provided information and the case should be closed.  The December benefits are available on 12/22/2000, so the worker cannot close the case for the next certification until after 12/22/2000.

• Review this memorandum with all appropriate staff.

• Follow the correct policy to ensure households receive the correct amount of benefits in a timely manner.