Memo MC #18

STATE OF ALASKA

Department of Health and Social Services

Division of Public Assistance

TRANSMITTAL NUMBER: MC #18

MANUAL: Adult Public Assistance

DATE: July 15, 2008

In response to staff requests to clarify estimating income policy, we have revised the Determining Monthly Income chapters in the Adult Public Assistance, Alaska Temporary Assistance, Family Medicaid, and Food Stamp program manuals. To the extent possible, the same format and words are used in all manuals to reinforce the alignment of the policies among programs. This revision does not change policy, but instead, clarifies concepts and methods caseworkers can use to estimate income.

In addition, we made minor changes to other sections of the manual to clarify existing policy.

Highlights of these policy revisions are described below. If you have any questions please contact the Policy and Program Development Team at 465-3347 or email dpapolicy@alaska.gov.

OVERVIEW OF CHANGES

MS 410-7 A (2) Initial Month's APA Payment for Applications Received On Or After July 1, 2004

Clarifies that start date for APA can be determined from the award letter provided by the client or by contacting the Social Security Office.

MS 420-2 B (2) Time Limit for Pursuit of SSI Benefits

Clarifies that clients may still be considered disabled if in non-pay status with SSI .

MS 420-3 C Social Security Administration ( SSA ) Insurance

Clarifies that applicants for Social Security may qualify with between 6 and 40 quarters of work.

MS 432-3 A Property Necessary for Self-Support

Clarifies $6,000 is total exclusion not per piece of property

MS 432-4 P Victim's Compensation Payments

MS 442-3 A (13) Victim's Compensation Payments

Changes language to align with other policy manuals.

MS 433-1 D (1) Undue Hardship

Removes repeated bullet

MS 440-4 Determining the Household's Monthly Income

Revises entire chapter to clarify policy. Adds definition of terms including "full payment period' and 'scheduled payment'. Adds examples to illustrate how policy can be applied to various situations. This revision is included in all the program manuals.

Addendum 1 Program Standards

Updates IRS Mileage Allowance chart with changes for 2008.