161.05 Processing Redeterminations/Recertifications SR 03-43, 09/03 (FSM-A)

In order to receive a full month’s benefits for the first month of a new certification period, the household must fully complete the Food Stamp reapplication process. The Food Stamp reapplication 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 requirments listed above must be met for the reapplication process to be complete and food stamp benefits to continue uninterrupted.

Require face-to-face interviews with individuals eligibile for the mail-in recertification process who provide their name, address, and signature but do not fully complete the Form 800R, Review for Continued Eligibility for Financial, Medical, and Food Stamp Benefits.

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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 to ensure uninterrupted benefits if the individual has completed an application, participated in an interview, if required, and provided required verification by the end of the current certification period.

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Process recertifications/redeterminations 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 Redetermination/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.

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Note: If the household completes the reapplication process within 30 days after the current certification period expires, the household is not entitled to expedited Food Stamp 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 Food Stamp households when they are unable to obtain proof and contact the District Office on or before the last day of the month of the current certification period.