Avoiding Over Verification
When you unnecessarily require a client to provide proof of an eligibility factor:
- that is not applicable to their program,
- that is not applicable to the household member,
- for which you have current verification, or
- which has already been verified and is not subject to reverification, it is considered over-verification.
Over-verification results in a duplicative effort for both the client and the Department, and can cause a delay in receipt of benefits. In some cases, it could actually prevent an eligible individual from gaining access to benefits. Any form of written or electronic verification is acceptable if it confirms the client’s statement.
Important: Do not demand a specific document or form of verification if another is more readily available. If a client has previously provided a permanent verification, or a verification not subject to reverification, you must not ask the client to provide this verification again, unless the information is questionable or contradictory.
Examples of Over Verification
- Diane is informed by a case manager that the wages of her 16 year old son, who is a full time high school student, must be provided. This is over verification, as this students income is not countable.
- At reevaluation, Tom is told that he must once again provide proof of his address, even though his address has not changed, and nothing is questionable about the previous verification of address he provided. This is over verification
- Jenna is asked to provide proof of relationship between her and her niece Carla, for a SNAP only case. This information is not applicable to the SNAP program, this is over verification.
Related Topics
Verifications Policy and Procedures (EAEDC)
Verifications Policy and Procedures (SNAP)
Verifications Policy and Procedures (TAFDC)