OLGT 2023-30: SNAP: Return of SNAP Application Interviews (Phase One)

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department maintained an interview waiver with Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). This allowed SNAP application interviews to be waived when there were no outstanding mandatory verifications. This flexibility helped the Department to manage an increased workload and issue timely benefits. Now with the ending of the Public Health Emergency (PHE), many flexibilities will begin to sunset.

Effective April 7, 2023, all SNAP applications will require an interview and must be interviewed in advance of issuing eligible households expedited benefits. Interviews are important to ensure case accuracy, screen for special circumstances, and explain SNAP program requirements.

COVID-19 Recertifications are still being processed using Interim Report rules. This means interviews at recertification remain waived until further notice. For more information, see COVID-19 Streamlined SNAP Recertification Process and Interview Waiver in the Online Guide. This change only applies to the SNAP application interview.