235.11 Required Verification for Group Living Arrangements (FSM)

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Before issuing the first SNAP allotment, obtain verification of the group living arrangement’s status, as follows:

·       If the facility is authorized by FNS as a retail food store, accept a copy of the facility’s retail store permit from FNS, or contact the USDA, Food and Nutrition Service by phone at 1-877-823-4369, as verification of both certification and nonprofit status.

·        If the facility is not authorized by FNS as a retail food store, accept certificates, licenses, or verbal contact with the certifying agency as verification the facility is certified under Section 1616(e) of the Social Security Act. Accept a tax-exempt award letter from the Internal Revenue Service as verification of nonprofit status.

To be eligible for SNAP benefits, a resident of a group living arrangement must be blind or disabled. If blindness or disability is questionable, the individual must provide verification. Assist the individual in obtaining required verification if the individual is incapable of providing it.

·        If the individual is claiming blindness or a disability that is not obvious, request a signed statement from a physician or licensed or certified psychologist that substantiates the individual’s claim.

·       If the individual is claiming blindness or disability based on approval for disability benefits, request a statement from the agency approving the benefits, if questionable.

·        If needed, obtain verification of Railroad Retirement disability benefits and Medicare eligibility from the Railroad Retirement Board, 408 Atlantic Avenue, Room 441, Boston, MA 02110, or by telephone (877) 772-5772.

References: RSA 161:4-a,IV; 7 CFR 271.2; 7 CFR 273.11(f)(1); 7 CFR 278.1(f)