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ESA SNAP Policy Manual 39 5.1.1 Verification Less Subject to Change Some elements of eligibility rarely change. ESA does not need to reverify these items unless the household reports a change or ESA otherwise learns of a change in circumstances that would need to be verified. Examples of permanent verification that is unlikely to change follow:  Identity  SSN  Status as a US citizen If ESA has reason to believe the evidence provided to verify any of the above examples was falsified, it must submit an Unusual Incidents Report Form for investigation through the DHS OPRMI. 5.1.2 Verification Subject to Change Other elements of eligibility can change regularly. Depending on program requirements, these elements may need verification at application, change of circumstance or recertification. Circumstances that are more likely to change and may need to be verified include the following:  Income  Household composition  School attendance  Student status  Immigration status  Shelter costs  Assets  Residency  Physical or mental barriers to employment  Dependent care costs  Child support payments

5.1.3 Responsibilities in Gathering and Submitting Verification The household has primary responsibility for providing documentary evidence (see Section 5.11.1, Documentary Evidence) to support statements on their certification forms and resolve any questionable information. ESA is required to offer assistance to households in obtaining verification as long as the household has not refused to cooperate with ESA. The household must be allowed to submit verification in person, via fax or mail, online or through an authorized representative. ESA cannot require the household to submit verification in person. 5.2 Income Verification ESA must verify all household countable earned and unearned income prior to initial certification. If all attempts to verify income have been unsuccessful because the employer or source of income is unresponsive to the household and ESA and all other sources of verification are unavailable, ESA must determine the income to be used based on best available information. ESA cannot deny an application for failing to provide verification in situations where the employer or source of income is uncooperative. Return