2133 Good Cause for Participation Without an SSN

The client who establishes good cause for failure to apply for an SSN shall be allowed to receive assistance for 1 month in addition to the month of application. For benefits to continue past these 2 months, good cause for failure to apply must be shown and documented on a monthly basis.

In determining if good cause exists for failure to comply with the requirement to apply for or provide an SSN, the specialist shall consider information from the individual, SSA, and any other appropriate sources. Documentary evidence or collateral information that the individual has applied for an SSN or made every effort to supply the necessary documents to complete an application for an SSN shall be considered good cause for not complying timely with this requirement. Good cause does not include delays due to illness, lack of transportation, or temporary absences because SSA makes provisions for mailing applications in lieu of applying in person. If the individual can show good cause why an application for an SSN has not been completed in a timely manner, that person shall be eligible for assistance for 1 month in addition to the month of application. Good cause for failure to apply must be shown monthly after the initial 2 months for such an individual to continue to participate. Good cause must be documented to support the decision to allow the individual to receive assistance pending application for an SSN.

Non-citizen applicants who only qualify for a non-work SSN (see those under 2142.1 ) are not required to apply for (or provide an SSN) to the agency as a condition of eligibility. They may be approved without an SSN under the good cause provision.