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S N A P M A N U A L

354 Fair Hearing Process A process which allows a client to contest an adverse action taken by the Agency and to have his or her objections to the adverse action heard by an impartial hearing officer or committee. Federal Fiscal Year A period of 12 calendar months beginning with each October 1 and ending with September 30 of the following calendar year. Federal Poverty Level An economic measure used to decide whether the income level of an individual or family qualifies them for certain federal benefits and programs. Filing an Application The action taken by a household member or their authorized representative by signing and filing an application form requesting food assistance. Fleeing Felon Individuals who are fleeing to avoid prosecution or custody for a crime, or an attempt to commit a crime, that would be classified as a felony (in the state of New Jersey, a high misdemeanor). Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) The Federal Agency under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) by which SNAP is administered. Foster Care Individual Individuals (regardless of age) placed in the home of relatives or other individuals or families by the Agency’s foster care program. Fraud (1) False representation of facts by words or conduct; (2) False misleading allegations; or (3) Concealment of that which should have been disclosed, which deceives and is intended to deceive another in order to obtain assistance illegally. General Assistance (GA) Cash or another form of assistance, excluding in- kind assistance, financed by State or local funds as part of a program which provides assistance to cover living expenses or other basic needs intended to promote the health or well-being of recipients. Gross Income A SNAP household's total, non-excluded income, before any deductions have been made. Group Living Arrangement (GLA) A public or private nonprofit residential setting that serves no more than sixteen residents that is certified by the appropriate agency or agencies of the State under regulations issued under section 1616(e) of the Social Security Act or under standards determined by the Secretary to be comparable to standards implemented by appropriate State agencies under section 1616(e) of the Social Security Act. To be eligible for SNAP benefits, a resident of such a group living arrangement must be blind or disabled.