153 CHANGES THAT DECREASE BENEFITS (FSM)

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When an individual reports a change in earned income or Food Stamp deductions that will reduce or terminate 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, verify the change using the information that the client provided. No additional paper verification is needed.

Exception: Standard verification procedures must be used for:

• changes in earned income discovered through the New Hire Cross Match. Attempt collateral contact first but if it is unsuccessful, send DFA Form 756, Employment Verification, to the employer, and allow 10 days for the required verification; or

• insufficient or questionable client information which does not allow the FSS to verify the change based upon the client’s statement.

For all other changes that will reduce or terminate benefits, take action as follows: Reduce or terminate benefits within 10 calendar days of the date the change is verified. If verification is not provided within the time frames, terminate the case.

Terminations and decreases are effective for the first major run after the ANP expires.

Process a claim if an overpayment or over issuance occurs. See FSM 713.

References: RSA 161:4-a,IV, 7 CFR 273.2(f)(2), (5) & (8)(ii), 7 CFR 273.12(c)(2)-(3)