Page 875

Volume III | Chapter 10

10117 MISSISSIPPI [ TANF WORK PROGRAM - PAYMENT PROCESS:

Revised 02-01-11 3. Whether the case manager relied solely on the participant’s or provider’s statement when authorizing supportive services/reimbursements. Was any supporting documentation obtained? 4. Whether the participant/provider willingly falsified documents or knowingly withheld information (e.g., vouchers, ledgers or receipts) in order to receive supportive service payments. Statute of Limitations Generally, the statute of limitations does not apply to the State on civil actions; therefore, court action can be taken to recover supportive service payments/reimbursements improperly obtained without regard to the time the fraudulent act was committed. In instances where there was only an attempt to obtain supportive service payments/ reimbursements, the statute of limitations bars criminal prosecution, unless action is commenced within two years after commission of the offense. Therefore, MDHS will refer attempted fraud cases to law enforcement officials within two years of the attempt to obtain assistance under false pretenses. In those cases where assistance is actually obtained under false pretenses, MDHS will refer such cases to law enforcement officials as they are discovered and properly investigated, without regard to the two-year period. 2. Participant error - The participant unknowingly reports incorrect information that results in an improper payment. There is no evidence that the participant willfully misrepresented or withheld information. All indications are that the individual misunderstood, or was unable to comprehend the program requirements. 3. Provider error - The provider unknowingly reports incorrect information that results in an improper payment, e.g., making an error on the purchasing receipts for TANF work-related expenses which result in an improper payment. 4. Agency error - The case manager takes an incorrect action causing the issuance of an erroneous payment, such as: a. Failing to follow-up on an anticipated change in a participant's component or living arrangement