SUBJECT:
TREATMENT OF SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS FOR VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA
DISCUSSION:
The purpose of this memorandum is to clarify the procedures for budgeting benefits from the Social Security Administration received by victims of Hurricane Katrina for the Food Stamp Program. The Social Security Administration has set up procedures to ensure that beneficiaries receive their monthly payments. Due to the new procedures for the Social Security Administration benefits, do not consider these benefits inaccessible for the Food Stamp Program.
Paper Checks
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has suspended service in some areas damaged by Hurricane Katrina. There are temporary mail delivery stations in Louisiana so individuals can pick up their benefits. The recipient must present photo ID to help prevent identity fraud.
Beginning Thursday, September 08, 2005, unclaimed checks will be forwarded, if a forwarding address is on file. Those checks that cannot be forwarded will be returned to the Social Security Administration.
If the recipient is unable to go to a temporary mail delivery station, they can go to any Social Security office and request an immediate payment.
Direct Deposit
Social Security payments made by direct deposit will be deposited to accounts as usual. If there is any difficulty in accessing the account, recipients can go to any open Social Security office and request immediate payment.
Food Stamp Applications
Follow normal budgeting procedures when processing a Food Stamp or Temporary Assistance application for EUs that receive Social Security benefits. For additional information on income and budgeting procedures, refer to the Food Stamp Manual sections 1115.010.00 Unearned INCOME and 1115.020.00 Income Eligibility Determination.
NECESSARY ACTION:
- Review this memorandum with appropriate staff.