2) Acceptable forms of verification:

• a. Initial occupancy. At initial occupancy, acceptable forms of verification are:

  • Benefit verification form completed by agency providing the benefits;

  • Award or benefit notification letters prepared and signed by the authorizing agency. (Since checks or bank deposit slips show only net amounts remaining after deducting supplemental security income or Medicare, they may be used only when award letters can't be obtained.) If the applicant does not have his or her award letter, the applicant may obtain it by calling 800-772-1213.

• b. Annual recertification. At annual recertification, the owner must verify benefit information by obtaining a Benefit History Report from EIV. If the owner cannot obtain this report from EIV, the owner uses the verification methods for initial occupancy.

NOTE : Failure to obtain a Benefit History Report from EIV is not an indication that the tenant does not receive benefits. Due to data sharing limitations between existing data systems, it is possible for a tenant to receive benefits on which the owner cannot obtain a Benefit History Report.