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Note: A "known" parent, in this context, is defined as the child's undisputed mother or father as established legally, biologically, or informally. When two men claim paternity or have been named as the child's father, there is no "known" father.

If one of the above situations exists, the caseworker is to indicate in the eligibility system that the physical custody criterion is met by confirming custody of child was not attained to receive TANF.

Further inquiry will be necessary if none of the circumstances listed above apply. The first step involves asking the current caretaker relative why the child is living with them and when the living arrangement began. At this point, the eligibility system will be coded "Y" for physical custody only if the caretaker states that the child did, in fact, begin living with him them to obtain or increase TANF cash assistance.

If the current living arrangement has been in place for three months or more prior to the application for assistance, a presumption can be made that physical custody was not obtained for the purpose of establishing eligibility for TANF cash assistance. Verification in these circumstances may be limited to documenting the length of time the caretaker relative and the dependent child have been together. Verification can be obtained from another relative, a friend or neighbor having knowledge of the family history, school, medical or religious records or other legitimate sources.

When the child and the specified relative have been living together less than three months the person with whom the child previously lived should be located for corroboration. Once there is sufficient verification that the child does not currently live with the parent or caretaker to acquire benefits, the eligibility system can be coded "N" for physical custody. The reason for the change in physical custody as well as other pertinent information (dates, individuals contacted, etc.) should be entered on the eligibility system and all correspondence and collateral documents filed in the case file.

If a non-parent caretaker relative has physical custody of the dependent child and the living arrangement is not long- term, the situations of both absent parents must be addressed as indicated above.

The provision of the TANF benefit is not to be delayed or denied because the child's previous caretaker failed to provide verification or could not be reached. Verification that physical custody was or was not obtained for the purpose of qualifying for TANF cash assistance also may include (but is not limited to): • A court order addressing physical custody of the child. • Documentation from Child Protective Services indicating that the child has been placed with the current caretaker relative • A statement from a professional person having knowledge of the family's situation. • A statement from a friend, neighbor or family member verifying or refuting the current caretaker relative's stated reason for acquiring physical custody.

The physical custody field on the eligibility system is coded "Y" only when there is documented evidence that the child lives with the caretaker relative for the purpose of qualifying for TANF cash assistance. TANF cash assistance will fail for the child. The caretaker relative will also be ineligible