Section 835 - Operation of Food Stamp Offices

Q. In an automated system, does the name, address, and signature of the household still have to be on paper?

A. We will either address this in regulations or allow State flexibility in this area.

Q. Does removal of the language requiring a single interview for joint processing of Title IV-A cases in effect remove the mandate for only one interview of any kind for food stamp applicants?

A. Yes. The revised language removed the requirement for an interview and joint processing of Title IV-A cases and leaves it up to the State agency to determine the procedures that best serve households in the State.

Q. What "operating procedures" is this provision referring to?

A. Primarily application, interview, and other intake procedures.

Q. What effect does Section 835 have on the designation of authorized representatives?

A. Section 11(e)(7) which allows authorized representatives in the certification and issuance process and for the purchase of food was not changed.

Q. After a disqualification is served for whatever reason, must the household request inclusion of the member or does the State agency need to track the ending of the penalty and add the person back to the case?

A. We will either address this in regulations or allow State flexibility in this area.

Q. When do States need to stop using the homeless shelter allowance in the excess shelter cost computation and start allowing a flat deduction?

A. The provision of section 809 removing the requirement to develop a homeless shelter estimate was effective on the date of enactment. It is required to be implemented for applicants immediately and for the ongoing caseload at recertification. State agencies have the option of using a standard homeless deduction and can implement the deduction by submitting a State plan amendment.

Q. How will a State's Administrative Procedures Act affect implementation?

A. Federal law takes precedence over State law. State agencies are required to timely implement the provisions of the PRWORA as required by Federal law.

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