003.02(B) COLLATERAL CONTACT.

An alternate source of verification is the collateral contact. This is confirmation of a household's circumstances by a person outside the household. A collateral contact is not restricted to any particular individual. It can be anyone who is expected to provide an accurate verification of the household's statements. Collateral contacts are designated by the household, but the household may request assistance from the local office in making this designation. Verification by a collateral contact may be given in person or by telephone.