Page 387

For money mismanagement situations, helping the caretaker relative to appropriately handle and manage the AG’s funds. It is recommended that the protective payee allow the caretaker relative to participate in decisions or at least have the opportunity to discuss expenditures before they are made. As the caretaker relative demonstrates the ability to use the funds appropriately, the protective payee is to gradually increase self-management until the caretaker relative is able to manage the entire TANF payment. 3605.25.25 PROTECTIVE PAYMENT REVIEW PERIOD (C)

The Local Office is responsible for reviewing and evaluating each protective payment case at least every six months to determine if the protective payee is carrying out these responsibilities in the best interest of the child. In addition, for cases involving money mismanagement, the situation is to be reviewed to determine if progress is being made by the AG in overcoming money mismanagement problems. A decision is to be made to: • Restore the AG to regular money payment status; • Continue the AG under protective payment status; or • Arrange for the appointment of a legal guardian when it appears that the AG is unable to respond to the beneficial effects of the protective payment plan or progress is so slow as to require continuation of the plan beyond the 24-month limitation on protective payments. (f1) 3605.25.30 PROTECTIVE PAYMENT TIME LIMITATION (C)

A protective payment arrangement in money mismanagement cases is limited to 24 months. (f2) The protective payee and caseworker are to make every effort to eliminate the money mismanagement problem sooner than the 24-month limitation.

There is no specific time limitation on the protective payment arrangement in minor parent cases.

For TANF AGs headed by minor parents, protective payments are discontinued if the minor parent: • reaches the age of 18; or • becomes exempt from the requirement (See Section 3215.05.25.05) 3605.25.35 PROTECTIVE PAYEE AUTHORIZATION PROCEDURES (C)

The following procedures are to be used in authorizing a protective payee: • The new payee must acknowledge acceptance of protective payee responsibilities in writing. Both the new payee and the Director of the Local Office are to sign Form SF 49884/FI0024 Protective Payee for Hoosier Works Card, one copy of which is sent to the AG. The protective payee receives the original while a third copy is retained in the case file. • A system-generated notice advises the protective payee and the AG that the protective payee will be receiving the TANF warrant directly for use in providing for the needs of the