7 CFR § 273.2(a)(2) & (c)(1) & (d)(1) & (e)(1)


An interview must be completed at application. 

Scheduling

7 CFR § 273.2(e)(3)

Applications in Person

7 CFR § 273.2(e)(1) and (3)


Complete the interview the day the application is filed.   If unable to complete the interview the same day, promptly schedule an on-demand interview.

Applications Dropped off, Mailed, Submitted Online, or Sent from SSA

CT Waiver of 7 CFR § 273.2(e)(3)


After the application is registered in ImpaCT, make 2 attempts to cold call the applicant to complete the interview.  


Send a W-3015N, Interview Notice if the EDG cannot be reached after 2 attempts. The notice advises the EDG to call the Benefit Center, using the toll free number, Monday through Friday, between 7:30 am and 4:30 pm, to complete an interview, or to schedule an in-person interview. Schedule the on-demand interview window to ensure completion of the interview no later than 12 days from the date of application.

  

Exception:  For EDGs qualifying for expedited service, schedule the on-demand interview window within 7 days from the date of application, unless the EDG is eligible for a postponed interview.


Note:  A 2nd interview is not required if SSA completed the interview and provided a complete application, unless needed to resolve issues or questions.

Who to Interview

7 CFR § 273.2(e)(1)


Hold the interview with one of the following individuals:


Note:  Individuals may bring anyone they choose to the interview.

How to Complete the Interview

7 CFR § 273.2(e)(1) and (2)


Complete the interview by telephone.  

Exception: Complete a face-to-face interview for the following reasons:

  • EDG or A-Rep requests a face-to-face interview
  • In-person application
  • Needed to resolve or clarify specific issues that cannot be done over the phone


Face-to-face interviews may be completed at:

  • a DSS field office,
  • a mutually acceptable location, or
  • the applicant’s residence.  

Note: The interview must be scheduled in advance if conducted at the applicant’s residence. 

Interview Process

7 CFR § 273.2(e)(1)-(3) and (f)


Review ImpaCT for EDG information known to the agency.  Treat the interview as a confidential discussion of the EDG’s situation.


Review the application by:

  • going over each question, and 
  • resolving any unclear or missing information with the individual being interviewed.  


Advise the applicant of the following information: 

  • Basic SNAP facts
  • Rights and responsibilities
  • Time limits for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD), if applicable
  • Verifications needed to determine eligibility
  • Use of the SSN in IEVS and other data matches
  • Due date to complete required actions
  • Processing timeframes
  • Reporting requirements
  • How benefits are issued 
  • Responsibility to cooperate with quality control reviewers
  • Rules and requirements of other programs don’t apply to the receipt of SNAP


Provide the applicant with: 

  • A W-1348, Proofs We Need, listing the required verifications needed to determine eligibility and the due date to return the verifications.  
  • Eligibility Determination Document (EDD)
  • Informational materials
  • Return envelope
  • Verification forms 


Advise the applicant required actions and verifications must be completed and returned within 10 days of the interview. 


Make referrals for other services as needed.

Missed Interview

7 CFR § 273.2(e)(3)


A W-0108N, Notice of Missed Interview (NOMI), is sent to EDGs failing to complete an interview by the 12th day.  

Exception:  See Expedited Service, Interview.  


The NOMI advises the EDG that: 

  • they have not completed their interview,
  • they must call to complete their interview or their application will be denied, 
  • the days, work hours and phone number to call the Benefit Center, and
  • the date by which the interview must be completed.


EDGs requesting to reschedule their interview by the 30th day are not processed as an EDG caused delay if by the 30th day they:

  • complete the interview, and
  • provide all verifications required to determine eligibility.


The application is denied on the 30th day following the application file date if the EDG fails to complete the interview by the 30th day and does not reschedule.