VARI-OI-Authorized to Release Information (SNAP/Economic Assistance)

Population Best Served by this Assisting Person Role

This may be a good resource for elderly and/or disabled individuals or households with limited English proficiency. This role may be used by SNAP and/or cash applicants/clients if they are being assisted by individuals or helping agencies. This assisting person role may be fulfilled by an individual or organization.

Note: The functions associated with this role depend on the corresponding program.

Question SNAP TAFDC/EAEDC
What can an individual/organization in this role do?
  • DTA may release case information to this individual or organization
  • Report information
  • Discuss case details with DTA
  • Conduct interviews on behalf of client
When can these tasks be performed?
  • Application
  • Case Maintenance
  • Interim Report
  • Recertification
  • Reinstatement
  • Application
  • Case Maintenance
  • Reevaluation
  • Reinstatement
How long will this role last?
  • Valid for up to one year
  • Client may revoke this role earlier than one year either verbally or in writing
  • Valid until revoked by client in writing
How many people can be identified for this role?
  • Unlimited
  • Unlimited
What information from the assisting person is needed?
  • First Name
  • Last Name 
  • Gender  
  • Relationship
  • Address
  • First Name
  • Last Name 
  • Gender
  • Relationship   
  • Address
Should an EBT card be issued for this role?
  • No
  • No
Does this assisting person need to provide proof of identity?
  • No, proof of identity is only required if the assisting person transacts SNAP benefits.
  • No, proof of identity is only required if the assisting person transacts TAFDC/EAEDC benefits.
What are some examples of acceptable documentation?
  • VARI-OI
  • Release of Information for Assisting Person or Organization portion of the Senior Application
  • Other document capturing the information required on a VARI-O
  • Individuals identified as a TAFDC/EAEDC Authorized Representative in Section B of the Image-10A must be listed under the Release of Information role in the Assisting Persons page.
Can the assisting person designate themselves for this role?
  • No. The client should be the one to authorize an individual/organization for this role.
  • No. The client should be the one to authorize an individual/organization for this role.
If an overpayment occurs because this assisting person gives DTA the wrong information, who is responsible for the overpayment?
  • Not applicable. Individuals identified under this role are not authorized to be interviewed. They cannot report or make changes to a client’s case.
  • The client

Last Update: December 17, 2018