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MISSISSIPPI

2001 Volume III | Chapter 2 [DEFINITIONS: TANF TERMINOLOGY]

Revised 11-01-17 ASSESSMENT

An interactive interview process to determine the individual’s employability. An assessment is a continuous process completed by Mississippi Department of Employment Services (MDES). The MDES staff must assess the individual’s participation in the TWP to ensure satisfactory participation to achieve his/her goal. See Chapter 7, Assessment.

ASSISTANCE HOUSEHOLD

A household in which all members are included in a TANF money payment budget. See Volume V, Chapter 7, Categorically Eligible Households.

ASSISTANCE UNIT (AU)

The assistance unit is defined as all individuals who must be included in the TANF budget group. The assistance unit was formerly called the standard filing unit (SFU). See Chapter 3, Assistance Unit Concept.

AUDIT -To examine and check. See Chapter 1, Disclosure for Audit Purposes.

AUTHORIZATION

Authorization is an official act, usually performed by the county Economic Assistance Director/Supervisor, certifying as to the eligibility or continuing eligibility of any assistance payment group. The authorization requests the issuance of a money payment and authorizes the expenditure of public tax funds. See Chapter 7, Standard of Promptness.

AWEP - See Alternative Work Experience Program.

BARRIERS

Circumstances in the individual’s life that may prevent his/her participation in the TWP. Case managers and MDES staff should work with the individual to remove these barriers through the provision of supportive services, strategic component assignments and other assistance. See Chapter