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DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES FAMILY INVESTMENT ADMINISTRATION Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Manual NORMAL PROCESSING STANDARDS Section 406 Page 1

406.1 Purpose

This section describes normal application processing standards. It applies to all Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit applications including SNAP applications combined with TCA or TDAP applications. It also gives the policies that apply when the timeliness standard is not met. (Expedited service requirements are detailed in section 401 of this manual, Expedited Processing Standards.) Local departments must provide timely, accurate and fair service to all applicants and recipients.

A. Any Maryland resident may apply for benefits in any local Department of Social Services. When an individual wishes to apply for benefits:

1. Provide the applicant with an application unless the applicant is living in another state;

2.Provide any additional information as needed or requested;

3.Advise the household that a computer lab is available for them and staff will help them apply using myMDTHINK.

B. An application can be filed in person or through a representative, by mail, electronically on myMDTHINK or by faxing or emailing a scanned signed application to the local department.

NOTE: The local department must accept applications during all normal business hours, even if the applicant cannot be interviewed at the time the application is dropped off. Remember, if the applicant cannot be interviewed on the day of application, the local department must schedule an appointment for either a telephone interview or an in-person interview.

C. A myMDTHINK application is considered filed when the local department receives the electronically signed application.

406.2 Month of Application

A. The month of application is the calendar month in which the household files its application.

REVISED JANUARY 2025