309.01 SSN Eligibility and Applicant Notification Requirement (FSM)

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The law requires that assistance group members furnish a social security number (SSN) or verification of an application for one before receiving benefits.

Exceptions:

• Good Cause: Applicants may receive SNAP benefits when they cannot provide an SSN due to circumstances beyond their control. Good cause must be reestablished each subsequent month with a client contact. The District Office Supervisor determines good cause.

o    Good cause does not include delays due to illness, lack of transportation or temporary absences, because SSA makes provisions for mail-in applications in lieu of applying in person.

• Expedited SNAP: Applicants may receive expedited SNAP for the initial month only without providing an SSN. Do not issue any further benefits to individuals until a social security number or verification of application for one has been submitted.

Applicants are notified of the above requirements, how the SSN will be used, and the laws requiring SSNs as a condition of eligibility, via BFA Form 800, Application for Assistance. If the applicant has further questions about providing an SSN, provide the applicant with BFA Form 758, Notification of Social Security Enumeration Requirement.

References: He-W 724.01(e); 7 CFR 273.2(b)(4) & (f)(1)(v); 7 CFR 273.6; 7 USC 2025(e)