9085.5 Unclear Information

When information about changes in a household's circumstances are unclear and DSS cannot determine the effect on the household's benefit, DSS must clarify and verify the changes as follows: DSS must issue a written request for contact (RFC) which clearly advises the household of the verification it must provide or the actions it must take to clarify its circumstances. Allow the household at least ten (10) days to respond and to clarify its circumstances either by telephone or by correspondence, as directed by DSS. If the household fails to respond to the RFC, or does respond but refuses to provide sufficient information to clarify its circumstances, DSS will terminate the case and issue a notice of adverse action explaining the reason for the action. Inform the household that a new application must be filed if the household wishes to continue to receive benefits. When the household responds to the RFC and provides sufficient information, process the changes according to DSSM 9085.3 and DSSM 9085.4.