Ensuring that the benefits of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which more than 40 million Americans rely on, is the responsibility of the beneficiaries themselves. This recertification process occurs when the state agency sends a SNAP expiration notice to the beneficiary one month in advance, with the aim of verifying that the household is still eligible.
A new certification may be required as a federal requirement since the state agency does not provide benefits beyond the active period. Additionally, changes in eligibility and updates to guidelines, whether for the program or cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), are also taken into account. Completing this process only requires submitting a completed form before the 15th of the last month of your certification period.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a food assistance program that not only helps but is relied upon by more than 42 million people in the United States. It is a federal program through which eligible beneficiaries receive a monthly amount via EBT cards, which they can use to purchase various foods at different establishments.
However, this program has variations that beneficiaries need to be aware of in order to enjoy its benefits without interruptions. This is the case with the SNAP recertification process, through which a beneficiary must prove that they remain eligible to receive this aid. The process is triggered when the state agency sends an official notice to the beneficiary one month before the end of their certification period. It is an alternative to having to start from scratch with a new application, which would be much more laborious.
Why is a new certification necessary?
There are 3 main reasons why this verification is required:
- Federal requirement: Official regulations require the state agency not to provide SNAP benefits beyond the active period without completing this process.
- Changes in eligibility: Income or household composition may have changed, which directly affects eligibility.
- Guideline updates: Program guidelines or the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) may change over time.
How is it carried out?
Approximately one month before the end of the program’s active period, the beneficiary will receive an official expiration notice from the state agency. This is when the process begins, and when the recipient needs to get to work. On some occasions, the notice comes accompanied by the necessary recertification application, as well as a letter for the interview appointment or a list of required verification documents.
It should be noted that the SNAP certification period can last from one month to three years. The beneficiary must fill out the form, providing personal information, as well as information regarding changes in income sources, expense amounts, or changes in household composition. It must be submitted before the 15th of the last month of the certification period, and depending on the state, it can be done online, by mail, or in person.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need to recertify my SNAP benefits?
It is a federal requirement to verify that you still meet the eligibility criteria. It is used to update changes in your income, household members, or to adjust to new program guidelines and the cost of living (COLA).
What is the deadline to submit the application?
You must submit the completed form by the 15th day of the last month of your certification period. You will receive a notice from the state agency one month before your benefits expire so that you can start the process in time.
How is the recertification process carried out?
You must complete the form with your personal information and any changes in your finances or housing. Depending on your state, you can submit it online, by mail, or in person. In some cases, an interview or additional verification documents may also be required.
