122-1          ISSUING A QUEST CARD - NEW/INITIAL APPLICATION

For cases that are determined to be SNAPSupplemental Nutrition Assistance Program expedite, a Quest card should be issued at the time the case is determined to as expedite, or at the earliest opportunity. This will get the card out in the mail the following business day so the client will have the card in hand once a benefit determination is made on their case.

For all non-expedite cases, it is preferred that cards are issued at the time of benefit authorization. It becomes problematic for clients and retailers when the client receives their card and the benefits have not yet been authorized.

Refer to EIS Procedures 2010-1 for additional issuance information http://dpaweb.hss.state.ak.us/manuals/eis/2010-1EBTtransfer.pdf.

Caseworkers should advise the client to call the number on the back of the Quest card to set up their PIN and if needed, direct them to an office telephone to confidentially select a PIN.

If the applicant has been on assistance before and still has their Quest card, a new card does not need to be issued unless the card is damaged.