FNS has clarified when a recipient can get deductions for expenses not timely reported. A prior memo stated agencies could add language to the Rights & Responsibilities that said “Failure to report or verify any … expenses will be seen as a statement by your household that you do not want to receive a deduction…”
The deduction can be disallowed if the household fails to report or verify an expense at: 1) certification; 2) recertification (can disallow a prior expense). An agency may not disallow the expense when reported for an interim changes (e.g. change in shelter costs) or quarterly report change, unless after proper request for verification (i.e. only certain changes need verification, and the agency shall help obtain verification, etc.) [Download]