When it comes to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), you’ll need to recertify or reapply for benefits once your certification period ends. The certification period for SNAP is either 12 or 36 months. However, it’s important to note that changes in your circumstances may require you to report them to the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA).
Within 45 days before your certification period expires, the DTA will send you a Recertification form to fill out. Currently, most SNAP households receive a “COVID-19 Recertification form.” The good news is that if you receive this form, you won’t need to have an interview with a DTA worker.
When completing the Recertification form, you need to provide information about certain aspects, including changes to your address or phone number, household composition (if someone joined or left), changes in noncitizen status, student status, and income for all household members. Additionally, you have the option to inform DTA about dependent care costs, housing and utility expenses, medical costs, and child support payments you make.
To submit your signed Recertification form to DTA, you have four options:
1. Complete the Recertification online on DTAConnect.com, which is the quickest method.
2. Call DTA at 877-382-2363 to complete the process over the phone.
3. Send it to DTA via fax or mail.
4. Bring it to a local DTA office in person.
In most cases, households will be interviewed by phone, similar to the application interview process. However, if you’re an elder (60+) or disabled household with no earned income and you submitted your Recertification and required verifications on time, there won’t be a recertification interview. However, DTA may still schedule an interview if requested, if the information provided is questionable, or if your SNAP case is on the verge of closure.
How often do you have to recertify for SNAP?
To avoid any interruptions in your SNAP benefits, it’s crucial to return the recertification paperwork on time. DTA should provide sufficient time to complete and submit the forms without interruption, as long as you’re still eligible. However, if you fail to return the form or send it after the DTA deadline, your benefits may be interrupted or stopped.
If you’ve sent in your recertification and necessary proofs on time but experience delays in receiving your SNAP benefits, you can check your case status on DTA Connect or contact the DTA Assistance Line to speak with a worker for assistance.
If your SNAP case has been closed at the time of recertification and less than 30 days have passed, you can simply send your Recertification to DTA instead of starting a new application. However, if more than 30 days have elapsed since your case closed, you’ll need to file a new SNAP application.