PM 22-11-04: Identifying SLUs

WAG 22-11-04.

revised manual textDetermine the language preference of clients:

  • who apply for or receive benefits; or
  • who complete any DHS eligibility materials.

revised manual textReview and ensure that the correct language is selected in the Written Language and the Spoken Language drop down on the Application Information Page in IES, when conducting initial SNAP screening, application, or eligibility interviews.

If the unit is Hispanic (which includes Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Dominican, or other South or Central American culture), ask the following questions to determine fluency in English and Spanish:

  1. Does the adult member of your household who will usually discuss your case with DHS and/or HFS speak English fluently?
  2. Does the adult member of your household who will usually receive mail or written information from DHS and/or HFS read English fluently?

If the answer to either question is "No", the unit is considered fluent only in the Spanish language and is a Spanish Language Unit (SLU).