Since June 1, 2009 counties have had the option of waiving the face-to-face interview at initial application and/or at recertification without having to document whether a hardship exists. The USDA found that waiving the face-to-face interview has not negatively affected payment error rates, is beneficial for CalFresh applicants and recipients, and provides administrative relief for county staff.
Offering the option of a telephone interview in lieu of a face-to-face interview will now be required at intake and recertification. (The majority of counties are doing this already, but any not must do so no later than July 1, 2012.) [Download]