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ALL The date that an application is filed is relevant for determining the time standard for processing the application and the amount of the initial benefit. Except for IDA, an application is considered filed the date that any Service Center receives a signed application containing the applicant's name and address (unless homeless); (see Section 1.7: Where to File in this Chapter). On the application, ESA staff must document receipt of the application by date-stamping or manually recording the date the Department receives the application. FS If an application for an SSI applicant/recipient was forwarded from an SSA Office, then the application will be considered filed for normal processing purposes when the signed application is received by SSA. For purposes of determining the expedited processing timeframes, the date IMA receives the application is used (see Section 1.7: Where to File in this Chapter). For a resident of a public institution who applies for benefits prior to his/her release from the institution and is entitled to expedited service, the date of filing of his/her FS application is the date of release of the applicant from the institution. IDA An application is considered filed on the date that a signed application containing the applicant's name and address (unless homeless) is received at the designated IMA service center and a face-to-face interview is completed.

ASSISTING APPLICANTS UNABLE TO READ OR WRITE IN SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION 1.5

If an applicant cannot read or write and the applicant does not wish to have another family member or acquaintance assist him/her with the application process, ESA staff are to fill out the application for the individual. The SSR should explain to the applicant that s/he can have another individual such as a friend or family member assist with the application process or the individual can let the SSR help him/her fill out the application. The choice should be left to the applicant.

If the SSR fills out the application for the applicant, the contents of the completed application must be read aloud to and reviewed with the applicant in the presence of a second IMA staff person, preferably a supervisor or center manager. The second ESA staff person must then sign the application indicating that the applicant agrees with the information provided on the application form. ALL