151 CHANGES THAT INCREASE BENEFITS (FSM)

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When an individual reports a change in earned income or Food Stamp deductions that will increase benefits:

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

• if collateral contact is unsuccessful, use standard verification procedures.

Make the change effective no later than the first allotment issued 10 calendar days after the date the change was reported if verification of the change is provided within time frames.

If verification is not provided within time frames, terminate the case.

Exception: If verification for a deduction is not received in 10 days, process the case with zero as the deduction amount.

Restore lost benefits if the individual reported the change and provided verification on time, but the Department failed to make the change within the time frames specified above.

References: RSA 161:4-a,IV, 7 CFR 273.2(f)(5) & (8)(ii), 7 CFR 273.12(c)(1)