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FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICES CERTIFICATION SIMPLIFIED REPORTING (SR) HOUSEHOLDS FNS 515 SR CHANGES DURING THE CERTIFICATION PERIOD

Section 515 Change #02-2026 (Corrected) August 13, 2026 B. If the caseworker learns that an FNS unit failed to report the change timely within the certification period, the FNS unit is entitled to a DSS-8553 before reducing benefits. C. Do not disqualify an individual for failing to report a change unless the individual is disqualified according to instructions in FNS 705 Administrative Disqualification Hearings, and FNS 800 Claims. D. If the FNS unit fails to report a change timely that would have resulted in increased benefits, do not restore those benefits. E. Restore benefits when the agency fails to act timely in processing an increase in benefits. Refer to FNS 900 Restoration of Lost Benefits. 515.11 FAIR HEARING REQUESTS AND CONTINUED BENEFITS If the FNS unit requests a fair hearing during the advance notice period and its certification period has not expired, do not take action to reduce or terminate benefits. Continue benefits at the same benefit level authorized immediately prior to the Notice of Adverse Action. Once the Notice of Adverse Action expires, so does the FNS unit’s ability to request continued benefits. A. Explain to the FNS unit that continued benefits may be waived. If the FNS unit agrees to waive continued benefits, process the change to reduce or terminate benefits before the fair hearing. B. If not waived, explain that any continued benefits received may have to be repaid depending on the outcome of the fair hearing. C. When termination of benefits is due to non-compliance with work requirements, explain that the disqualification may be imposed following the hearing decision. D. Refer to FNS 700.11 Fair Hearings. 515.12 CHANGE OF RESIDENCE DURING THE CERTIFICATION PERIOD A reported change of residence is a change the worker must act on. A change of address is not a required report under FNS 500.03. However, 7 CFR 273.12(c)(4) requires the agency to act on the change in shelter costs arising from a reported change of residence. Do not treat a reported change of residence as a non-required change under 515.07 B. A. When the FNS unit reports a change of residence (a move) during the certification period, investigate the shelter and utility costs at the new residence. Act on the resulting change in the shelter deduction and the utility allowance, in either direction (increase or decrease). Do not continue the prior residence's shelter or utility amount once a move has been reported. B. Verify the new shelter and utility expenses per FNS 340.08 and verify residency per FNS 215.03. If the FNS unit does not provide the needed information or verification,