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Subject: SNAP Application Processing

Policy 24.02 Date of Last Review: 11/30/2023 Effective Date: 12/01/2022 Date of Next Review: 11/30/2026 RDA: SW22 Page 4 of 20 d. Although all interviews are scheduled as telephone interviews and Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has authorized this option, customers may request a face-to-face interview, if they chose not to be interviewed by telephone. 3. The interview provides the applicant/recipient the opportunity to: a. gain an understanding of the agency program, the benefits offered and the expectations of the recipient in meeting program requirements; b. clarify questions that the recipient may have about eligibility requirements; agency policies, and procedures; and c. present his/her information in his/her own words. 4. For the agency, the interview serves to: a. secure the information which the agency needs to determine eligibility; b. enhance the applicant’s understanding of the eligibility determination process and of the agency’s related policies and procedures; c. enlist the participation of the applicant and the recipient in this process; d. improve understanding of the rights and the obligations of the applicant and recipient under this process; and e. supplement the agency’s other means of communication with the applicant/recipient. 5. A face-to-face interview will be conducted with the applicant/recipient by a qualified Eligibility Counselor prior to initial certification/approval and recertification for SNAP, except when a face-to-face interview is not required. 6. When a household/assistance group is applying for both SNAP and Families First, a single interview may be held to fulfill the requirements of both programs. However, more than one interview may be required in order to clarify information provided, resolve inconsistencies, or view documents presented in support of the customer’s statements, etc. during the application or recertification/redetermination period. 7. The interview shall be conducted as an official and confidential discussion of household circumstances. 8. The applicant’s right to privacy must be protected during the interview. 9. The person interviewed must be the head of household, spouse, any other responsible adult member of the household, or an authorized representative who is an adult and who has knowledge of the household’s circumstances. 10.If a household fails to appear for a scheduled interview after an application has been filed with the county office, or prior to the date the SNAP certification period expires, these procedures will be followed: a. If an initial application or recertification application has been filed the household must be notified in writing of the missed appointment and their responsibility to reschedule.