Electronic Signature

CalFresh households must be provided the option to complete an application and recertification interview by telephone and capture their signature via an electronic signature method.

Electronic Signature Methods

The electronic signature can be met with the following options:

  • Typed name (i.e. on an online application) 
  • Electronically recorded sound (i.e.  telephonic signatures, voice recording) 
  • Digital signature (i.e. DocuSign)

Requirements

To be considered an electronic signature for CalFresh, the following requirements must be met: 

  • The client must take an affirmative action to indicate concurrence, such as providing verbal affirmation. 
  • The record of the signature must be maintained electronically and linked to the document to which the signature attests. 
  • The process put in place for CalFresh must constitute a legal signature in the State of California, as defined by the Secretary of State and the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act. 

Telephonic Signature (TS)

A TS is a type of electronic signature using an individual’s recorded signature or verbal assent in place of an actual written signature and is considered legally enforceable.

The County must follow the requirements below when implementing an electronic signature system:

  • For signatures captured telephonically, an audio recording must be made of both the household's verbal assent and a summary of the information to which the household assents. ExampleExampleThe household verifies their agreement with the details discussed during the phone call through a recorded summary of those details. ;
  • The audio file of the recorded verbal assent described above must be linked to the application so that the household’s entire case file is readily accessible to the State agency; and
  • The household member must be promptly provided a printed copy of the completed application with instructions on how to correct any errors or omissions, so the household may review the information and make any necessary changes within ten days following the completion of the electronic signature (i.e. the interview).