BEACON is DTA's computer system. The DTA worker puts information about each client into BEACON. BEACON is programmed to decide eligibility and benefit amounts, create a list of proofs you need to give to DTA, keep track of when you have to meet with your worker, and create notices to send to you about your benefits.

DTA workers follow instructions in the BEACON User's Guide to conduct interviews and put information into BEACON. Your local DTA office has a copy of the BEACON User's Guide. You have a right to look at it because it is a public document. The BEACON system has to change to meet SNAP program requirements. When the system is upgraded, DTA issues guidance explaining those changes. Those updates are important information for advocates.

BEACON can make mistakes for several reasons. The worker may enter incorrect information. The system programming may be incorrect. Sometimes BEACON tells the worker to ask for information or proofs you should not have to give. BEACON is only a computer system. It does not set the rules or make policy.

Your DTA worker should not refuse to fix a problem because it may have been caused by BEACON. If you have any questions about BEACON, or you get notices from DTA you think are wrong, talk to your worker or your worker's supervisor. If the problem is not fixed right away, you should contact an advocate and appeal. See Part 6, Appeal Rights.