Mandatory Interviews for SNAP and TANF in New Mexico Start Sept. 1
According to kfoxtv, New Mexico residents enrolled in the state’s Health Care Authority (HCA) assistance programs will now be required to participate in an interview for recertification, following the conclusion of a federal COVID-era policy.
Starting September 1, all New Mexicans who need to renew their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits must complete an interview as part of the recertification process, the HCA announced on Wednesday.
Additionally, beginning October 1, new applicants for SNAP and TANF benefits will also be required to participate in an interview.
This change comes as a result of a federal decision to end the COVID-era policy that had waived the interview requirement.
The HCA explained that the interview is necessary to gather “additional information” required to issue benefits and can also “benefit the customer by connecting them with additional assistance.”
“Our priority is to ensure that eligible New Mexicans continue receiving essential support,” said Niki Kozlowski, HCA Income Support Division Director. “We understand that this adjustment may take some getting used to, but our team is ready to assist with the required interviews and applications.”
The HCA is notifying customers by mail, email, and text 45 days before their renewal due date, providing them with details and scheduling a time for the interview, which can be conducted by phone or in person at a local HCA Income Support Division Office.
For those seeking more information or wishing to apply for HCA benefits and services, there are several options:
- Visit yes.state.nm.us to complete the online application.
- Apply in person at an ISD Field Office.
- Call 1-800-283-4465, Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., to complete an application over the phone.
