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2026 - 2027 I PY27 NH Fuel Assistance Program (FAP) Procedures Manual 41 10. APPLICANT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Confidentiality
It is of the utmost importance that applicants are guaranteed complete confidentiality regarding information disclosed to all persons involved in the administration of the FAP.
The applicant agrees to a release of information when completing and signing the FAP application form. This release is specific to FAP and includes the following only:
• Information necessary to establish eligibility for the FAP • Information necessary to determine the amount and type of assistance • Information necessary to perform program evaluation and analysis • Sharing of information with the NH Electric Assistance Program and Weatherization Assistance Program for purposes of eligibility for that program
All other sharing of information requires an additional specific release signed by the applicant or other household member or a legal subpoena.
Personally Identifiable Information
Information that can be used to identify a particular person or household is known as PII – Personally Identifiable Information. This includes a person’s name, SSN, date of birth, and address. An important component of ensuring confidentiality is adopting best practices for keeping PII safe. CAAs should have measures in place to protect the accidental transfer of this information. This includes policies for physical and electronic information. Some examples:
• Only print information with PII when necessary • Physical files containing PII should be secured • Limit the use of PII in email by referencing application numbers or initials • Encrypt any emails that must contain PII • Prevent access by creating strong passwords and locking computer screens when away Complaints
If an applicant believes there has been a violation regarding their data and wishes to share concern with how their information has been disclosed, they should contact the FAP director at the CAA where they applied. There is no penalty for filing a complaint. Should the applicant feel their concern is unresolved at the CAA, they can contact the NH Department of Energy at 603- 271-3670 or via email at fuelassistance@energy.nh.gov.