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It is important to note that a problem with the payment arrangement should be viewed as a signal to investigate the minor's situation thoroughly, to determine whether the living arrangement actually meets program requirements. An adult who willfully and repeatedly fails to utilize the payment to meet the needs of the minor and his child would not qualify as a supportive supervising adult. In this situation, the minor parent and his child would be ineligible for TANF. Therefore, at the initial reported instance of a problem with the protective payee, it may be advisable to suggest that the minor parent consider seeking a more appropriate living arrangement with a more responsible qualifying relative.

Once this decision is made, it should be fully documented.

Procedures for the authorization of protective payees may be found in Section 3605.25.35. 3215.05.25.10

MINOR PARENT IN AN EXISTING TANF AG (C)

A minor parent must be included in the TANF AG of his parent or other relative when the minor parent is directly related to the dependent child (sibling, half sibling) who is applying for or receiving assistance. The minor caretaker who is required to be included in the TANF determination with his siblings is considered a dependent child.

Note: The requirement that a minor parent live with a parent, grandparent, stepparent, or legal guardian (Section 3215.05.25.05) does not apply to minors whose mandatory relationship to an applicant/ recipient sibling forces them into the role of dependent child. However, these minor parents are required to live with a specified relative (a less limited designation) as are the other dependent children in the AG. (See Section 2420.05.00 for information regarding specified relationships.)

The child of the minor parent is not automatically required to be included in the existing AG. The minor parent may decide whether his child is to be considered for TANF eligibility. If a decision is made to apply for the minor's child, this child must be included in the existing AG with the minor parent.

If the minor parent is the caretaker, upon reaching age 18, both the minor parent and his child are removed from the AG and a separate AG is formed containing the 18-year-old and his child. The minor parent may then apply for assistance if he wishes.

However, if the responsibility for care and control remains with another specified relative, the minor parent is not removed from the grant. He remains a mandatory member of the AG due to his parental relationship to his child. 3215.10.00 REFUGEE CASH ASSISTANCE GROUPS (C)

Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) eligibility is determined on the basis of need. A refugee AG is comprised of either a single refugee or a spousal couple who live together. The following sections discuss additional AG requirements.