Field Ops Memo 2010-37: Processing TAFDC or SNAP Benefits for Clients Affected by the Loss of Unemployment Compensation Benefits

Overview
The American Recovery and Reconciliation Act (ARRA) of 2009 extended the period of time during which claims for unemployment compensation (UC) benefits could be filed and benefits paid. Since then, a number of UC extensions have been granted by Congress. Recently, however, there was a suspension of additional UC benefit extensions which caused the last payable week of UC benefits for many claimants to be June 26, 2010.

On July 22, 2010, Congress passed legislation authorizing another UC benefit extension. However, many claimants have and continue to apply to DTA for SNAP and/or cash assistance because in recent weeks their UC benefits were either suspended or exhausted. DUA continues to reinstate eligible clients whose UC benefits were suspended.

Anticipating a significant increase in SNAP applications, the Department applied for and was granted a waiver to streamline the SNAP application process for claimants who have exhausted their UC benefits and claimants whose benefits were suspended. In addition, a shortened SNAP application form (Attachment A) was developed for use by claimants who are no longer receiving UC benefits.

Finally, the centralized web units, which are located at Central Office in Boston and at the Springfield State TAO, will be expanded, as necessary, to help process SNAP applications from claimants who have lost UC benefits. Details about initiatives related to processing claimants who have lost UC benefits are included in this memo.

Purpose of Memo
The purpose of this Field Operations Memo is to provide TAO staff with:

• a method to determine whether or not a claimant’s UC benefit has ended using the Unemployment Insurance Information Inquiry Screen;
• a description of the SNAP application waiver for claimants whose UC benefits have ended;
• information about the shortened SNAP application form;
• information about the expanded function of the centralized web units;
• instructions for processing applications affected by the loss of UC benefits;
• instructions for processing existing cases affected by the loss of UC benefits;
• an update on the ARRA $25 Weekly Unemployment Compensation Payment;
• a reminder about the SNAP E&T Requirement for persons who have lost their UC benefits; and
• information about Attachment C- Tips/Information for Frontline Staff