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ESA SNAP Policy Manual 26 A SNAP inquiry is a face-to-face, telephone or written request by an individual for information about SNAP or in which an individual expresses concerns about food insecurity. ESA encourages customers to file an application on the day they contact ESA with a SNAP inquiry. For telephone inquiries, ESA will inform the caller of the following:  They can apply for benefits at any Service Center on the day of the telephone call.  If the caller does not wish to come to the office in person, ESA can mail them the application.  They can apply online at SNAP Benefits | DHS (dc.gov). For written inquiries for assistance, ESA will mail the application and related forms, including information about expedited SNAP, the same day ESA receives the request. 3.1.1 Application Filing Date Households have the right to file an application on the same day they contact ESA. An application is considered filed based on the following program requirements:  The application must contain the applicant’s name, address and signature of a responsible household member or the household’s authorized representative. The application for SNAP is considered filed when it is received online; via the mobile app; in person at any ESA center; or by mail, fax or phone. ESA uses a combined application that allows individuals to apply for multiple food, cash and medical assistance programs. ESA must accept all applications presented at a Service Center during regular business hours. A signature must be provided by the customer or authorized representative for ESA to establish a filing date and process the application. This signature could be an unwritten signature, such as a recorded gesture or telephonic signature, if necessary, to comply with civil rights law. Legal Authority Head of household (federal): 7 CFR §273.1(d) Authorized representative (federal): 7 CFR §273.2 (b)-(c), (f)(1)(vii) and (n)

3.1.2 Who May File an Application This section explains who may file a SNAP application. 3.1.2.1 Head of Household Generally, the head of the household files the application for benefits and receives correspondence and notices from ESA. The head of household may be any adult member of the household; if the household includes a minor child, the head of household must be an adult who has parental control of the child. Return