SNAP Policy Update: RMV driver license or RMV state ID acceptable for proof of MA Residence and Identity

MLRI recently became aware of a number of SNAP web applications denied for lack of verification of residence, even though the applicant submitted a current RMV license or state ID.  SNAP Coalition members also flagged this problem at the May 20th Coalition meeting. Under federal and state SNAP regulations, a SNAP applicant or recipient may verify residence through a wide range of documents, including a current RMV license or state ID that includes the current address of a SNAP applicant or recipient.** 

 

DTA Central recently agreed that SNAP benefits should not be denied based on lack of verification of residence if the RMV driver license or state ID is current with the same address listed on the SNAP application or recertification. This means that SNAP applicants and recipients do NOT need to provide additional proofs of address, such as a utility bill, landlord statement or "shared housing" statement. (In many cases, persons living in doubled-up situations are unable to provide additional documents because the landlord does not know they are there and/or they are reluctant to reveal private information about their need for SNAP to persons they do not purchase and prepare meals with.) DTA Central has resolved an individual case from the ARC Food Pantry that we brought to their attention and asked we flag other cases while they work on updated guidance. (We are also concerned that the current verification checklist (VC-1) gives a narrow list of proofs allowed for address and will follow up with them.) 

 

Please let MLRI know if you have any SNAP application denials or terminations for failure to verify residence or address, where the head of household submitted a valid RMV license or state ID, even if a few months ago. We would be happy to advise you on how to get DTA to review the case.

** State SNAP regulations: Under 106 CMR 361.610(G), acceptable proof of identity includes a driver's license, a work or school ID, health care ID, voter registration card, wage stubs and more.  106 CMR 361.610(H) states that documents used to verify identity can also be accepted for proof of residence. These verification regulations further state: No requirement for a specific type of verification may be imposed, and no durational or fixed residency requirement shall be established. An otherwise eligible household shall not be required to reside in a permanent dwelling or have a fixed mailing address as a condition of eligibility. The case manager shall not limit verifications to a single document and must assist the household in obtaining verification, when necessary, as discussed in 106 CMR 361.650."  Regs available at: https://www.mass.gov/media/1002846/download