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Date of Last Review: 11/30/2023 Effective Date: 12/01/2022 Date of Next Review: 11/30/2026 RDA: SW22 Page 1 of 20 SNAP Application Processing Policy 24.02 Effective: December 1, 2022 Introduction The Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) shall meet federal and state guidelines regarding the processing of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications from the time that a customer files an application for benefits to when an eligibility determination is completed in order to ensure accurate processing. Scope The purpose of this policy is to instruct staff on the procedures required for processing SNAP applications. The policy outlines the process of when an application is filed, prescreening to identify applicants who are eligible for expedited service, the interview process, determining eligibility, certification periods, and notifying the applicant of the determination made. Policy Application Process 1. The application process for SNAP begins with a request for an application and ends with notification of the household’s eligibility or ineligibility. 2. The household may voluntarily withdraw its application any time prior to the determination of eligibility. a. The Eligibility Counselor shall document or record the reason for the withdrawal if any, and that contact was made with the household to confirm the withdrawal. b. The household shall be advised of its right to reapply at any time. 3. The household must be given an opportunity to participate no later than thirty (30) calendar days after an application is filed. Expedited service shall be available to a household that meets the criteria. Benefits must be provided retroactively to the day of the month the application was filed for a household that has completed the application process and been determined eligible, provided that the household is eligible for benefits in the month of application.