SANTA FE – Starting Sept. 1, 2024, the New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) will require all New Mexicans renewing their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits to complete an interview as part of the recertification process.  

This change follows the federal government’s decision to end the interview waiver that was established during the COVID-19 pandemic. The end of this flexibility means that New Mexicans receiving SNAP or cash assistance will have an interview with HCA staff as a part of their applications. The interview provides additional information staff need to issue benefits and can benefit the customer by connecting them with additional assistance.  

“Our priority is to ensure that eligible New Mexicans continue receiving essential support,” said Niki Kozlowski, HCA Income Support Division Director. “We recognize that this adjustment may require some getting used to, but our team is here to help with the necessary interviews and applications.” 

Additionally, starting Oct. 1, 2024, new applicants for SNAP and TANF benefits will also need to complete an interview to determine eligibility. 

To assist with the transition, HCA is notifying customers by mail, email and text 45 days before their renewal due date, providing the time and details for the interview. These interviews can be conducted over the phone or in person at a local HCA Income Support Division Office. 

New Mexicans are encouraged to check their eligibility for SNAP and other HCA programs. People can learn more and apply for HCA benefits and services in several ways:  

• Visit Yes.state.nm.us and complete the online application. 
• Visit one of the ISD Field Offices across the state to apply in person. 
• Call 1-800-283-4465 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday to complete an application over the phone. 

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