OLGT 2022-69: SNAP: Updates to Household Misfortune Procedures
SNAP policy allows for the replacement of food lost during a household misfortune, such as a fire, flood, loss of electricity, equipment malfunction (such as refrigerator) or other disaster. Replacement is limited to the value of the food lost, not to exceed the total monthly benefit amount as well as their Emergency Allotment. To be eligible for replacement benefits, clients must report the loss to the Department either orally or in writing within 10 days of the incident, attest to the date and dollar value of the loss, and the loss must be verified. In instances when there is a widespread household misfortune the Department will utilize reports from local power companies and other trusted sources to issue guidance as to which areas do not need to provide verification.
Clients may now telephonically sign the SNAP-9B form. Workers are to encourage clients to use this method of signing as it is more efficient, convenient, and allows the client to more easily meet the 10-day time frame required for reporting the loss.
To attest to the loss a client may:
• Telephonically sign the SNAP-9B form. When a client calls to report the loss of food, staff must advise the client that they can complete a SNAP-9B form over the phone and sign it telephonically. The SNAP- 9B form has been updated to advise clients that they may telephonically sign;
-
Submit a Request for Replacement SNAP Benefits Due to a Household Disaster or Misfortune for Massachusetts Residents (SNAP-9B). If a client submits a completed SNAP-9B form within 10 days of the loss of food, without prior report of loss, the SNAP-9B form will satisfy both the report of loss and the signed statement of loss (this includes wet signature or telephonic signature); or
-
Provide a written attestation signed under the penalty of perjury detailing the date of the household misfortune, the date of the food loss, and the dollar value of the food purchased with SNAP benefits. If a client submits a written attestation within 10 days of the loss of food, without prior report of loss, the written attestation will satisfy both the report of loss and the signed statement of loss.
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| OLGT 2022-69 telephonic signature for household misfortune.pdf (248.19 KB) | 248.19 KB |