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4. How do States apply this deduction to existing cases? Can we apply it at the household's next scheduled contact? FNS expects that State agencies will need to gather additional information about shelter expenses from currently participating SNAP households in order to apply this deduction to their cases, as applicable. State agencies may collect this information during the household's next scheduled recertification, at which time the State agency may explain the deduction and any verification requirements. Households with qualifying expenses must be offered the homeless shelter deduction and, if the household opts for the deduction, have it applied to their case, no later than the household's next scheduled recertification after the date ofimplementation. States may apply the homeless shelter deduction sooner than the household's next scheduled recertification if they receive sufficient information about the household's shelter expenses to make changes to its case. 5. Can the updated amount of $147.55 be rounded, and if so, which <l:irection (up or down). Some State systems are not programmed to handle figures that are not whole dollar amounts. In implementing the homeless shelter deduction, States should follow their current net income calculation procedures under 7 CFR 273.I0(e)(l)(ii), which stipulate that the State agency may elect to include the cents associated with each individual shelter cost in the computation ofthe shelter deduction and round the final shelter deduction amount. 6. Our State already has the option of allowing the homeless shelter deduction, and we are currently using $143 for FY2019. Does this ·mean, we should be allowing the $147.55 as soon as possible? Yes. All States, both those that currently take the option and those that do.not, are required to implement the homeless shelter deduction at the new value as soon as possible. FNS expects that States that already have the option in place will be best positioned to implement the new deduction value quickly for all households eligible for this deduction, while States implementing the deduction as a household option for the first time may need to make additional system changes. 7. The information memo indicated that, "Homeless households that have qualifying shelter expenses must be made aware of their eligibility for this deduction and, if applicable, their option to claim this or an excess shelter deduction." Is there guidance on how they are to be made aware? Are States required to provide this information on the application or verbally? FNS recognizes the importance of ensuring that this vulnerable population be made aware ofand understand the options regarding shelter deductions, including potential eligibility for the excess shelter deduction and the new homeless shelter deduction in all States. There is no particular method that is required for providing households with this information. States are expected to follow their normal procedures for informing households about the availability for deductions for which they may be eligible and are encouraged to connect with partners and service providers that work with this population to spread awareness about this policy change. Page 2 through their guidance portal, except to establish historical facts. incorporated into a contract. USDA may not cite, use, or rely on any guidance that is not available Guidance documents lack the force and effect of law, unless expressly authorized by statute or