1115.035.25.20 Utility Decision Period – DSS Manuals

IM-149 December 27, 2022 ; IM-52 May 30, 2013 ; IM-50 September 2, 2011 ; IM-36 April 22, 2010 ; IM-124 October 21, 2005 ; IM-125 September 19, 2003 ; IM-01 January 15, 1999

Determine the appropriate standard for utility expenses for each household at the following times:

at certification

at recertification

when a change in utility arrangements occur

If the household reports an address change, but does not report a change in shelter expenses:

Enter the new address.

Staff must investigate potential changes in shelter costs by contacting the household. If the household cannot be reached by phone contact, pend the case for the shelter expenses and send a request for information to the household giving the household 10 days to provide the information. Participant statement is acceptable verification. If a household fails to provide information regarding the shelter costs at the new address within 10 days of the request, the eligibility system will send a notice to the household that their allotment will be recalculated without the shelter deduction.

Record a comment in the eligibility system regarding the reported address change and the new shelter expenses were not reported. Include in the comment if the household was reached by phone or if a request for information had to be mailed.

If the household reports an address change and a change in shelter expenses:

Enter the new address.

Enter the appropriate information on the shelter expense screen.

Record a comment in the eligibility system regarding the reported address change and shelter expenses.