161.05 Processing Recertifications SR 23-18 Dated 4/23

To receive a full month’s benefits for the first month of a new certification period, the household must fully complete the SNAP recertification process.

The SNAP recertification process is complete when prior to the expiration of the current certification period, the individual has:

•       completed an application;

•       participated in an interview, if required; and

•       provided all required verifications.

All 3 requirements listed above must be met for the recertification process to be complete and SNAP benefits to continue uninterrupted.

Require a face-to-face or phone interview with individuals eligible for the online or mail-in recertification process who provide their name, address, and signature but do not fully complete the online Recertification Application, or BFA Form 800R, Application for Continued Eligibility for Financial, Medical, Child Care, and SNAP Benefits.

Contact the individual to ensure information has not changed since the recertification appointment if the case is not being processed within one month of the appointment date.

Process recertifications within 30 days of the application date if the individual has not participated in an interview or provided required verification by the end of the certification period. See Section 161.07, Termination at Recertification.

Prorate benefits for the first month of the new certification period if the household completes the reapplication process after the current certification period expires.

IMPORTANT: If the household completes the reapplication process within 30 days after the current certification period expires, the household is not entitled to expedited SNAP Benefits. If the system recognizes the case as expedited, process the case within 4 days of receiving the final piece of verification.

Example: The household’s recertification period expires in September. On September 15th, the household reapplies, but fails to submit required verification by the end of the certification period, and the case closes on September 30th. On October 2nd, the household provides all required verification to complete recertification. Benefits for October are prorated from October 2nd, the day that the recertification process is complete. The case must be processed by October 6th to prevent untimely issuance of expedited benefits.

Exception: Do not close or deny SNAP households when they are unable to obtain proof and contact the Department on or before the last day of the month of the current certification period.

References: He-W 766.01; He-W 766.02; RSA 161:4-a,IV; 7 CFR 273.14(b)