709.17 Replacing Coupons or Food Destroyed in a Disaster SR 94-04, 04/94 (FSM-A)

See SR 98-50 dated 8/98 for changes to this policy applicable only to Concord D.O. pilot implementation of New HEIGHTS.

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Issue replacements for food and food coupons destroyed in a disaster. A disaster is a natural event such as a flood, earthquake, or fire. Criteria for replacement are as follows:

• A household must report destroyed coupons within the period of intended use or within 10 calendar days of the loss. The period of intended use is the month in which the coupons were mailed (as indicated by the postmark date).

• A household must report destroyed food within 10 days. There is no time limit regarding period of intended use.

• Authorize only 2 replacements in a six-month period for coupons destroyed in a disaster (see above). However, there is no limit on the number of replacements for destroyed food.

• Verify the disaster through a home visit, collateral contact, or community agency, such as the fire department or Red Cross.

• If the U.S. Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has declared a disaster, the household cannot receive both the FNS disaster allotment and a replacement for destroyed coupons.

• A replacement for food or food coupons cannot exceed the actual value of the loss or the individual’s monthly food stamp benefits, whichever is less.

• An individual must complete Form 422 for replacement of destroyed coupons. Form 422 is not required for replacement of food.

• A manual issuance is required for replacement.