The CAO will authorize replacement of an ACCESS card when an individual reports one of the following:
Card not received.
Card lost or stolen.
Damaged card/ not able to use in card reader (magnetic stripe does not work).
Damaged card/ by recipient or other (folded, mutilated, etc.).
SSN add or change (Social Security Number added or changed which results in a change to the individual’s recipient identification number).
Name change.
Other situation requiring a card replacement.
Review the record for the correct address and make address changes prior to the card replacement request. The replacement card should reach the individual within seven calendar days. If medical services are needed before the card is expected to be received, the CAO will issue a Temporary ACCESS Card. Use the procedures from Section 380.2 ACCESS Card Issuance and Replacement to issue a replacement card.
The CAO will review the need for ACCESS cards at the following:
Application - Review the information. If the CAO identifies a change that is different from a previous application or prior authorization and the change requires a new ACCESS card, the CAO should contact the individual to confirm the change and issue a new ACCESS card with the updated information.
Renewal - Review the information. If the individual reports a change or the CAO identifies a change that would require an updated ACCESS card, the CAO is to contact the individual and confirm the change and issue a new ACCESS card.
Replace the ACCESS cards for individuals if needed.
NOTE: If an individual reports non-receipt of a child's ACCESS card, remind the individual to notify the post office of all individuals living in the household.
Remind the individual to destroy the old ACCESS card if it is found as the old card is no longer valid.
NOTE: If an individual is currently open for MA only and requests a replacement ACCESS card, but was open for TANF and/or SNAP benefits in the past, and the last card issued to them was an Electronic Benefit transfer (EBT) Card, a replacement EBT card should be issued (not an ACCESS card). Since the individual has had a break in coverage for TANF and/or SNAP and is now receiving MA only, the replacement fee should be waived.
Updated July 24, 2024 Replacing May 30, 2024