What happens during the interview?

During the interview, the DTA worker should:

• Screen you for expedited (emergency) benefits. See When am I eligible for expedited (emergency) benefits?
• Confirm the information you gave on your application and any information DTA gets through government databases.
• Review the documents you sent in, tell you what verifications (proofs) DTA needs and when they are due. See What proofs does DTA need and when?
• Answer any questions you have and offer to help if you need help getting verifications or contacting a third party for information.
• Review the exemptions and the work rules if you or a household member is subject to the ABAWD 3-month time limit. (Note, the ABAWD time limit is not in place right now. See What is the “ABAWD” 3-month time limit for childless adults ages 18 to 50?
• Tell you how long your benefits are certified for, what changes you need to report to DTA, and when you need to send back an Interim Report and/or a Recertification form. See What if I lose food due to a power outage, a fire or a natural disaster?
• Explain your rights and responsibilities, as well as the penalties for committing fraud or for other program rules.
• Issue you an EBT card if one has not already been issued and you don't have one – either by mail or in person at the DTA office – and tell you how to use the EBT card.

SNAP interview rules: 106 C.M.R. §§361.500- 361-550.

DTA Online Guide: See Appendix G for links to the DTA's BEACON 5 Online Guide for this section.