305.05 Verification of Citizenship (FSM)

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Verify citizenship with acceptable forms of proof such as:

•       birth or hospital records

•       voter registration cards

•       U.S. passport, and 

•       U.S. Citizenship and Immigrations Services (USCIS) documentation which certifies citizenship or naturalization.

Verify citizenship only if an individual’s declaration is questionable, such as when a document contradicts a declaration. Citizenship may not be considered questionable based only on surname, appearance, or lack of ability with the English language.

When acceptable forms of proof of citizenship are not available for a household member and the household can reasonably explain why the proof is unavailable, accept a signed statement from a third party with personal knowledge of the household member’s U.S. citizenship.

The signed statement must state that the signer:

•       is a U.S. citizen;

•       knows the applicant to be a U.S. citizen; and

•       may be fined, imprisoned, or both for giving false information or helping to commit fraud.

Exception: Written statements are not acceptable verification of qualified alien status.

Without verification or a written statement from a third party, the individual whose citizenship is in question is ineligible until proof is provided or the issue is resolved. Do not delay benefits to remaining household members who are otherwise eligible because proof of citizenship is not available.

Exception: Expedited service may not be withheld to await proof of citizenship.

References: He-W 701.03; 7 CFR 273.2(f)(2)(i), (iii) & (i)(4)(i)(B); 7 CFR 273.4; 18 USC 1015(e)