MEMORANDUM

DISCUSSION:

Effective September 12, 2011, the Shelter Expense (SHELEXP or FMXK) screen is changed to require shelter expenses be re-entered during the controlled flow of Initial and Re-certification (Timely and Non-timely) applications.

NOTE: This re-entry of expenses is not required for add-a-person applications or Mid-Certification Reviews.

Additionally, the Shelter Expense screen will be automated to make a utility standard decision based on entries made by the Eligibility Specialist.   The Utility Expense Standard Screen (FMXJ) screen no longer displays in the Food Stamp controlled flow.  A new driver question and screen, the Energy Assistance (ENERGY or FMHS) screen, is added to the Food Stamp controlled flow to determine if the EU has received Energy assistance within the last 12 months at the current address.  In maintenance mode, this screen can be reached from the Shelter Expense screen by selecting the PF-15 key.

NOTE: Energy assistance history for participants can be reviewed by accessing the legacy screen EHST and entering the client's social security number (EHST 123456789).

Staff is reminded that shelter cost and utility expense for a vacated home temporarily not occupied by the Eligibility Unit because of employment or training away from the home, illness, or abandonment caused by a natural disaster or casualty loss may be allowed as a shelter expense.  When these expenses are claimed, the Eligibility Specialist will calculate the shelter expense manually by adding the shelter expense and the correct utility standard or actual utilities, then entering the expense with the appropriate code in FAMIS as follows:

• VA –vacated home exp including actual utilities,
• VH—vacated home –no utilities
• VS—vacated home – non-heating/cooling standard.

  EXAMPLE:  Mr. X's home was damaged in a natural disaster, and is uninhabitable.  He is temporary living in an apartment until he gets his home fixed.  He has the following monthly expenses for his vacant home:  a house payment of $1200, gas for heat of $80, electric of $200 per month and telephone expense of $40.  The rent for his apartment is $800 per month; he is paying gas of $20, and electric of $50 for heating and cooling.  The ES will enter shelter expenses of

• VA (vacated home exp including actual utilities) in the amount of $1530 ($1200 + $80 + $200 + $20)
  + $50) to cover the cost of the vacated home and actual utilities,
• RT (rent) in the amount of $800, and
• PH (telephone) in the amount of $40, which the new system will give them the telephone expense standard.

Then enter a comment regarding the actual utility amount being paid by the EU and the reason for entering the telephone standard.

NECESSARY ACTION:

• Review this memorandum with appropriate staff.

KS