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APPENDIX: SNAP GLOSSARY Verification - Verification -V- The county office worker has the following responsibilities: 1. Advising the household what must be verified and how it must be verified. Recommended sources of verification may be found in the section of policy dealing with the item to be verified. For example, recommended sources of verification for earned income may be found in SNAP 5514. The Request for Assistance (DCO-215) contains a general list of items that must be verified. When an interview is scheduled on the Notice of Appointment (DCO-219), the lower portion of the form will be completed to advise the household of the verification requirements. If it is determined at the interview that additional verification is required, the worker will issue to the household a DCO-191 that clearly indicates the information to be provided. If verification is needed from a currently certified household, a Notice of Action (DCO-1) will be issued. See the definition of “Notice of Action” in this Glossary for additional information about the requirements for requesting verification from a currently certified household. When information from another source contradicts statements made by the household, the household must be so advised and given a reasonable opportunity to resolve the discrepancy. 2. Assuring that required verification is accomplished and documented. (See SNAP 314 for instructions on documentation.) Households may supply documentary evidence in person, through the mail, by facsimile or other electronic device, or through an authorized representative. Households will not be required to present verification in person at the County DHS Office. The worker must accept any reasonable documentary evidence provided by the household and will be primarily concerned with how adequately the verification proves the statements on the application. 3. Assisting the household when the household is cooperating and it is difficult or impossible for the household to obtain the necessary documentary evidence in a timely manner or when the documentary evidence presented by the household is insufficient. Such assistance may include making a collateral contact or making a home visit. Assistance with the verification process must be provided to any household upon request; however, at any time a worker becomes aware that a household needs help complying with the verification requirements, the worker must assist the household even if such assistance has not been specifically requested. For example, if a household turns in an income statement that has been improperly completed, the worker would contact the employer directly to verify earnings. If a household turns in an outdated statement to verify SSA benefits, the worker would access the SOLQ screen. In the case of an elderly client, a worker might assist in obtaining verification of medical expenses by contacting providers directly.