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SNAP 703-1 WORK REGISTRATION Good Cause and Unsuitable Employment Supersedes: SNAP 703-1 and SNAP 704-1 (10/01/2009) Reference: 7 CFR 273.7, Food Stamp Act Section 6 (D)(2) Overview: The eligibility staff member is responsible for determining good cause when a SNAP recipient fails or refuses to comply with SNAP work requirements. The eligibility staff member must take into account the facts and circumstances, including information submitted by the employer and by the household member involved, in determining whether or not good cause exists. DETERMINATION OF VOLUNTARY REDUCTION IN HOURS: All of the following 3 conditions must occur in order for a reduction in work hours to result in a penalty: 1. The reduction must have occurred either: a. Applicant- within 30 days of the date of application. b. Recipient- while receiving SNAP. c. Upon learning of the reduction in work hours for a recipient individual who is subject to Simplified Reporting apply the penalty the month after the report allowing for ten-day notice. 2. There must be an actual voluntary reduction in work hours. The following are NOT considered a reduction in work hours: a. The individual is working at least 30 hours per week, and getting paid money, after the reduction in hours. b. The individual is working more than one job and the total hours from all jobs are the equivalent of at least 30 hours per week after the reduction. c. The individual is earning the equivalent of at least 30 hours per week at minimum wage after the reduction. d. The individual is working more than one job and the total earnings from all jobs are the equivalent of at least 30 hours at minimum wage after the reduction. e. Reducing self-employment hours or terminating self-employment. f. Changing from one job to another job that is comparable in hours or the equivalent of 30 hours at the federal minimum wage. g. Reducing work hours at the demand of an employer. The employer must verify the demand. 3. There was not good cause for the voluntary reduction. There is no penalty if there was good cause for reducing work hours. See section on Good Cause later in this policy.