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When a request for an independent resource assessment is received, the screener is to access the independent resource assessment screen, complete the screens, and schedule an appointment for the assessment interview. The interview can be conducted in person or by telephone. During the interview the worker is to complete Form 2061, Resource Assessment for Medical Assistance to the Aged, Blind and Disabled. The responsibility for providing the required documentation and verification rests entirely with the couple and any representative. The Form 2060 explains this fact and also lists the type of documentation which must be provided to the DFR. Workers are to give advice and guidance to the individual as to the most effective means of obtaining verification but are not required to obtain verifications directly, although it is not prohibited when a properly signed consent has been obtained. If the necessary documentation is not received by the DFR within 20 days of the date of the assessment request, the worker will receive an alert and is to send a reminder letter to both spouses and their representative listing the necessary documentation and asking for an update on the status of their verification process. At the end of 30 days, a second letter should be sent stating that the assessment cannot be completed until the verification is submitted. When the necessary documentation is received, the DFR is to proceed in an expedient manner to complete the assessment and determine the spousal share. Once completed, copies of the Form 2061 and the verifications must be provided to both spouses. If a representative has acted on behalf of either spouse, the DFR must provide client with a copy also. The worker is to access the independent resource assessment screen and enter the amount of the spousal share. A copy of all complete or incomplete assessments, as well as the documentation and any correspondence, must be retained by the DFR as the spousal share, or the inability to establish one, is crucial information in the determination of the institutionalized spouse's eligibility when an application is filed. Copies of the independent resource assessments are to be retained indefinitely. The spousal share cannot be appealed until an application for Medicaid is filed and the eligibility determination is completed. If a mathematical or keying error is made by the worker, the independent resource assessment screen can be accessed by the supervisor who can enter the correct spousal share. If an individual not entitled to an independent resource assessment under the special resource provisions requests an assessment via the Form 2060, the DFR must advise the individual in writing of the reason the assessment will not be completed. If the institutionalized spouse is applying for Medicaid, the resource assessment will be an integral part of the eligibility study. Do not complete the independent resource assessment screen. When a person is applying for Medicaid and needs a resource assessment as part of member’s eligibility determination, that individual will be entered into the system just like any other application. When the application is processed in AE, the resource assessment and the resource assessment-continued screens are to be completed with the resource data necessary to determine the spousal share. When resources are jointly owned by the spouses, they are to be entered once on the Resources Assessment screen and the Resource Assessment-Continued screen in the institutionalized spouse's name. Then the spousal share can be correctly calculated. Resource values for assessment purposes must be verified as of the first