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DIVISION OF WELFARE AND SUPPORTIVE SERVICES Child Care Policy Manual 430 JOB SEARCH Job search is defined as an activity that demonstrates an individual is actively seeking potential employment. Job search purpose of care is subject to available funding and may not be offered. The CCDP Chief makes this determination and notifies the Child Care offices. Qualifying job search activities include: • Completing applications in person or on-line computer applications; or • Interviews; or • One-time resume preparation; or • Employment preparation (testing, sheriff’s card, purchasing appropriate work clothes, etc.). Applicants, including foster and CPS households, may be eligible for child care while seeking employment. 430.1 Additional Information The following guidelines apply to individuals who participate in the Child Care and Development Program Job Search. • Child Care Job Search is limited to 90 days in a calendar year (January through December). Note: The job search start date can start on any day of the week. Child Care staff must work with the customer to determine what start date best suits the needs of the customer. • Certificates can be issued up to a maximum of 90 days each time the household is eligible for job search. To allow flexibility during the job search period the Certificate schedule should allow for a maximum of five full-time days with a varied schedule. Note: The 90-day time period is tracked in the computer system. If the provider bills and is paid for at least one day of service during an approved week, the computer system applies a full week of job search as used. • Households will not be eligible for job search if the only eligible child(ren) is school age (6 to 12 years) or special needs (13 to 19 years). The job search can be done while the child(ren) is in school. If the child(ren) is not in school, (e.g. summer break, track break, holidays) job search will be allowed. Exception: If a child is enrolled and verified to attend part-day kindergarten, coverage can be provided for job search. • Individuals must sign the Job Search Eligibility form which informs them of all job search requirements. • If employment is secured during the job search period, or within 45 days of completing an approved job search period, the household may qualify for continued services as long as all other program guidelines are met. Refer to MS 103.2 regarding exceptions to wait list placement. • Providers must be reimbursed based on the number of authorized days the child was in care. TWO PARENT/CARETAKER HOUSEHOLDS Two parent/caretaker households may be eligible for job search activities, if one of the parents/caretakers is unable to care for the child due to their activity schedule (e.g., one parent is working during the day when most employers are open for business and/or conducting interviews). If both parents/caretakers are requesting job search, justification for why one parent/caretaker cannot care for the child while the other is seeking employment must be provided. The extenuating circumstances must be examined and approved by the case manager prior to authorizing benefits. 400-Purpose of Care Categories [4] MTL 01/24 July 1, 2024