Processing a Recertification

This topic provides steps for processing a recertification. For general RE business process procedures (e.g., interview scheduling and post‑interview steps), staff must follow the Re‑Evaluation (RE) Process topic.

Prior to the interview 

The following must be done regardless of the type of interview. Review information regarding the household’s current circumstance including but not limited to:

  • Household composition,
  • Income,
  • Expenses,
  • Property (for non MCE cases), 
  • Any other areas of eligibility that need to be explored during the telephone interview.
  • Check the Interface Activities subsystem in CalSAWS and any available electronic verification sources for:
    • IEVS Data
    • Search IEVS Recipient Reports
    • NHR
    • PVS reports
    • MEDS and,
    • WorkNumber
  • Determine if any additional forms/verifications are needed.
  • Review the case before scheduling the interview appointment to ensure that the appropriate type of the recertification interview is set up. Refer to Type of Interview.
  • Schedule an appointment interview in CalSAWS, and send the Appointment Letter (GEN 102). The GEN 102 must be sent at least 10 days prior to the scheduled appointment.
  • Check to see if all members of the household are receiving Medi-Cal. If not, and there appears to be eligibility/linkage, proceed with processing of joint CF/MC application.
  • Conduct a telephone interview following the Re-Evaluation (RE) Process detailed in the DEBS BP Handbook Section.

Refer to the topic Recertification Forms for the forms that must be used to complete a recertification. 

After the interview

If there are missing verifications, then the SSBS must:

  • Update the information in CalSAWS, including missing verifications.
  • Send a Request for Verification (CW 2200).
  • Document actions in Journal Detail page. 

Refer to CATS Chewable byte 2026-140

Documentation

Document the following in the Journal Detail page:

  • Date(s) of the interview.
  • Type of interview (i.e., face-to-face or telephone).
  • Rights and Responsibilities for CalFresh were explained to the applicant, and the applicant's understanding of them.
  • EBT Card & PIN responsibilities explained to the client,
  • The SOF and any other required forms were reviewed question-by-question.
  • All required informational notices were given and explained to the applicant.
  • Any unusual circumstances.
  • Submits all the required forms/verifications to imaging.

Important: Case narration tool must be used at recertification.