707.07 Separation of Duties for EBT Card Issuance and Distribution (FSM)

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The responsibilities of staff members involved in the determination of eligibility and EBT card issuance and distribution process for Food Stamp benefits are separated and divided as follows:

1.   Family Services Specialists (FSS) and DCS Supervisors are responsible for determining:

-     eligibility for DHHS assistance programs using New HEIGHTS; and

-     the amount of the Food Stamp benefit, if eligible.

FSS and DCS Supervisors never have access to an EBT card.

2.   Family Services Associates (FSA) have the ability to issue an EBT card through the ebtEDGE system for recipients of Food Stamp benefits. FSA do not have access to the eligibility determination process in New HEIGHTS nor the ability to determine benefit amount.

3.   Data Management Unit (DMU) staff members are responsible for ensuring EBT card security. DMU receives every EBT card that is issued and distributes the EBT card to the intended recipient. DMU staff do not have access to the eligibility determination process in New HEIGHTS nor the ability to issue an EBT card through the ebtEDGE system.

EBT cards must always be transported in a secure locked pouch, and received by the FSA at the District Office or by DMU at State Office. Each District Office must ensure 2 secure locked pouches are available for use when EBT cards are returned to State Office.

References: RSA 126-A:3, I(c); RSA 161:2, I; 7 CFR 272.4(c)(1); 7 CFR 274.5(c)(1)