SUBJECT:
FOOD STAMP APPLICANT CHANGE REPORTING REQUIREMENT
FOOD STAMP MANUAL REVISION #16
1140.015.00 APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY UNITS
DISCUSSION:
This memorandum is to introduce new requirements for Eligibility Units (EUs) not subject to simplified reporting rules, when a change occurs after the food stamp application interview but prior to certification.
Effective 8/28/2006, when a change occurs after the interview, but prior to certification, migrant/seasonal farm worker or elderly/disabled EUs have until the 10th day of the month following the month the EU receives their notice of eligibility to report the change.
EXAMPLE: An EU applies for food stamp benefits on May 2 and reports all EU circumstances. While the application is pending the head of the EU gets a new job. This change is not required to be reported while the application is pending. On May 21, the application is approved. If the EU is a migrant/seasonal farm worker or elderly/disabled EU, the new job is required to be reported by June 10th.
If the EU is subject to simplified reporting rules, the new job is not required to be reported unless the income exceeds 130% of the poverty level for the EU size.
All applicants for food stamp benefits must report anticipated changes related to their food stamp eligibility and allotment level during the initial interview. At the application interview, discuss with the applicant changes that must be reported if the EU is approved for benefits. The appropriate change reporting form is generated by FAMIS.
If a change is reported while the application is pending, enter the change into FAMIS. If verification is required, give the EU an FA-325 (Request for Information) allowing ten days to provide the required verification. It may be necessary to pend the application beyond the application due date because FAMIS must consider the reported change in the eligibility determination.
EUs subject to simplified reporting rules are required to report changes as described in section 1140.005.00 Definition of Simplified Reporting. Act upon changes reported following policy in section 1140.005.20 Changes Not Required to be Reported by Simplified Reporting Eligibility Unit.
NECESSARY ACTION:
- Review this memorandum with appropriate staff.