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N.J.A.C. 10:90-1.2 This file includes all Regulations adopted and published through the New Jersey Register, Vol. 56 No. 24, December 16, 2024

NJ - New Jersey Administrative Code > TITLE 10. HUMAN SERVICES > CHAPTER 90. WORK FIRST NEW JERSEY PROGRAM > SUBCHAPTER 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

§ 10:90-1.2 Opportunity and decision to apply

(a) Any person who believes he or she is eligible for WFNJ assistance must be given the opportunity to apply without delay. Applicants shall be informed about the eligibility requirements and their rights and obligations in applying for and receiving assistance. The decision to apply rests with the person. The applicant has the right to withdraw the application before eligibility or ineligibility has been determined. (b) The application process begins with the initial contact by a member of the assistance unit with the designated county or municipal agency and ends with a decision by that agency as to the eligibility of the assistance unit for WFNJ benefits. Both the applicant and the county or municipal agency have a responsibility to verify and document eligibility. (c) Initial contact may be an inquiry, a referral or an application: 1. Inquiry means any request for information about assistance programs which is not a request for an application. A record is necessary only when the inquiry requires follow-up action. 2. Referral means a request from a public or private agency or individual for assistance on behalf of another individual/family. All referrals must be recorded with appropriate facts, and the disposition noted. 3. Application means a written request for public assistance by an individual, couple without children, natural or adoptive parent(s), parent-person(s), minor parent(s), or legal guardian acting on behalf of the individual/family. (d) There are four types of applications: new application, reapplication, reopened application and transfer application (see N.J.A.C. 10:90-15 for definitions). (e) The applicant(s) and/or his or her designee shall be assisted by the WFNJ worker in completing the Application and Affidavit for WFNJ and the Agreement to Repay pursuant to N.J.S.A. 44:10-64. The applicant shall be given the WFNJ Participant Handbook, an information card concerning the "Fair Hearings in the Work First New Jersey Program (WFNJ)", and written notification of his or her rights and responsibilities under the WFNJ program.