147 ACTIONS ON CHANGES (FSM)

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When an individual reports a change in earned income or SNAP deductions:

• first attempt collateral contact. If collateral contact is successful, consider the reported information as verified and no further action is necessary.

• if collateral contact is unsuccessful, verify the reported change by using:

- information provided by the client, if the change is expected to decrease benefits. See PART 153, CHANGES THAT DECREASE BENEFITS; or

- standard verification procedures, if the change is expected to increase benefits. See PART 151, CHANGES THAT INCREASE BENEFITS. If standard verification procedures are required to verify a SNAP deduction and verification for the deduction is not received in 10 days, process the case with zero ($0) as the deduction amount.

For other reported changes that have occurred, take all of the following actions:

• Record the reported change and the date.

- Provide a new BFA Form 470, Change Report Form.

- Take timely action on the change within 10 calendar days of the date the change is reported.

• Notify the individual of any needed verification because of the reported change, using New HEIGHTS-generated AE0055, Proof Needed to Determine Your Assistance. If New HEIGHTS is unavailable, use paper backup BFA Form 808, Proof Needed to Determine Your Assistance.

• Allow the individual 10 calendar days from the date the change occurs to provide verification of the change.

• Determine the effect of the change on the individual’s eligibility and benefits.

Exception: 

Schedule a recertification appointment prior to the change, if policy requires that assistance be terminated in the month in which the change takes place.

For other reported changes that are expected to occur, take all of the following actions:

• Record the reported change and the date the change is expected to occur.

• Within 10 working days of the date the change was expected to occur, contact the individual to request verification of the change.

Act on all changes, including changes reported outside the household or discovered through other means:

• At minimum, document in the case record changes that do not increase benefits or affect benefit level.

• Clarify any discrepancies through written notification or telephone contact.

• Allow the household to have a face-to-face interview, if the household requests one, to resolve any discrepancies, but do not require one.

Exceptions:

Require a face-to-face interview when fraud or intentional program violation is suspected, such as when the household fails to report earned or unearned income.

Households certified for 4, 5, or 6 months have special reporting requirements. See Section 145.04, Special Reporting Requirements.

References: He-W 752.01; RSA 167:17; 7 CFR 273.2(f); 7 CFR 273.12