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Effective October 2013, DHS began conducting comprehensive assessments of TANF applicants, as a condition of eligibility, to determine their work readiness or exemptions as well as to identify barriers to employment. These strength-based assessments are the basis for the formulation of the initial Individual Responsibility Plan (iIRP); detailed Individual Responsibility Plan (dIRP); and customized referrals. The assessment allows the applicant and the Agency, in partnership, to identify the individual’s strengths, employment history, education history, and demands outside of their employment. In addition, the assessments enable the Agency to identify barriers that may be possible exemptions to the work requirements.

The following applicants and recipients are exempt under District law from requirements to participate in work-related activities:

a) A minor who is not the head of an assistance unit;

b) A single custodial parent or caretaker1 who personally provides care for a child under six years of age, who cannot obtain needed appropriate childcare because it is unaffordable or not within a reasonable distance of parent or caretaker’s home or work activity;

c) A single custodial parent with a child under 12 months of age for up to 12 months total;

d) A recipient over the age of 59;

e) Both parents or caretakers in a two-parent or two-caretaker assistance unit (if assistance unit is eligible for TANF because of one parent or caretaker's

1 Although exempt from DC work requirements-those who do not qualify for a federal exemption will be included in the universe of reported cases.