Application (RFA)

DTA provides multiple convenient ways to apply for DTA benefits (see below). Depending on the application method, obtain and enter as much client information as possible:

  1. Click Application in the Request for Assistance workflow.
  2. Enter the Method of application from the drop-down list (see below).
  3. Enter the date of application (today’s date is populated) in the Receipt field for the appropriate Method of Application for:
    1. Walk-in: The current business date will default in the Receipt field.
    2. Drop-off, Mail-in or Fax: Use the date the application was received.
    3. Home Visit, or Federal Telephone Call: Use the date of the initial contact.

      • Note: Federal Telephone Calls are referrals from a federal agency after a natural disaster.

    4. Telephonic: See Telephonic Signature.
      • For a Cash-only application, use the date the telephonic signature is collected.

        • Important: The telephonic signature must be collected during the first point of contact (for example, during the phone call to schedule the interview for a week later).

      • For a SNAP-only or combination Cash/SNAP application, use the date the interview is conducted and telephonic signature is collected.
    5. Internet (DTAConnect.com or mobile app): Use the date the client submitted the web application.
      • The TAFDC/EAEDC Web Application: The TAFDC/EAEDC Web Application datasheet displays the applicant’s responses to questions. One question on the web application is, “Do you wish to apply for SNAP?” The client can select the checkbox to indicate Yes. The datasheet displays the response in the final row. View/HideView/Hide
        • If the datasheet displays Yes, first check if the applicant already receives SNAP. If the applicant is a grantee of an already active SNAP case, do NOT create a duplicate SNAP application.
          • If the grantee does not have an active or pending SNAP case, the SNAP application date must be entered as the same date entered for the TAFDC/EAEDC application.

          • Important: If the applicant is an active member (non-grantee) of an existing SNAP, TAFDC, or EAEDC assistance unit, refer to Completing SNAP Applications for Active or Pending Clients for guidance on processing their SNAP application.

        • If the datasheet displays No response, you must ask the client if they wish to apply for SNAP during the application interview. If the answer is yes, the SNAP application date must be entered as the date the interview is conducted, and signature (telephonic/wet) is collected.

Important: All applications submitted to DTA after 5:00 p.m. on a business day, on a weekend or a holiday, must be assigned an application start date in BEACON for the next business day.

  1. Enter who made the Request for Assistance from the Source drop-down list.
  2. Select the Secondary reason or reasons for the application, if any, from the Secondary reason(s) pop-up box by:
    1. Clicking the Select button.
    2. Clicking the appropriate checkbox in the pop-up box.
    3. Clicking the Select button.

    • Note: Under Other secondary reason, you may enter a description of the other secondary reason, up to 30 characters.

  3. Enter who made the Request for Assistance from the Source drop-down list.

    1. Note: If you use Other as a source, type in the description of the Other source in the field provided (up to 30 characters).  It is important to select the correct source because these selections are used by Central Office to track who made the application.

  4. Select one or more Special situation(s) applicable to the case, if any. For instance, if a translator is needed, select Interpreter Required from the Special situation(s) pop-up box.  This can be done by:
    1. Clicking the Select button.
    2. Clicking one or more appropriate boxes in the pop-up box.
    3. Clicking the second Select button.

      • Note: If Other applies as a situation, type the description of the Other situation in the field provided (up to 30 characters). Follow-up may be required. For example, if Visually Impaired or Hearing Impaired is selected, you must check the case for any prior ADA accommodation.  If none is found, you must follow the accommodation process.

      • Each application for benefits will now include a question that clients must answer as to whether they have a disability that interferes with their ability to meet certain Department requirements. Clients will be screened for an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodation at every application to address this issue. For procedures on accommodation requests, please see Recognizing an ADA Accommodation Request.
  5. Click Next, once all the appropriate fields have been completed. This will save your data and take you to the next page.

Related Topics

Americans with Disabilities Act Overview

Interpreter Services

Assessed Person

Request for Assistance Policy and Procedures

Last Update: May 21, 2026