Page 4

NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance- TA and SNAP Employment Policy Manual Section 385.5 - Page 4 Rev. 4/2025 Part B - Department Policy All applicants and recipients of Temporary Assistance (TA) are entitled to receive information on work requirements. At application and recertification clients must be given an explanation of their rights and responsibilities as well as the benefits and obligations of participation in work activities. Districts may include additional elements in their orientation. The district orientation process is described in Section 2 of the district’s biennial TA and SNAP Employment Plan. Providing orientation is the responsibility of the district, as required in state regulations. There is no requirement for applicants or recipients to attend the orientation. Each district is required to conduct orientation at the time of application for, or redetermination of, TA eligibility, using oral or written means. Within state guidelines, districts may conduct orientation by employing a variety of delivery methods. At a minimum, districts must provide individuals with the Client Information Books (LDSS 4148A, B and C). Orientation information should be presented in a standardized manner to ensure that the same information is provided to every client. Written materials may be presented or handed out in group or individual settings or provided by mail or in application packets. Orientation may also occur via telephone or through a virtual format in the event the client(s) cannot be present in the district office. Orientation may also be provided individually as part of the eligibility interview, or an appointment with employment unit staff. Whether orientation is provided individually or in a group setting, the district’s orientation must inform applicants and recipients of the employment activities and supportive services for which they are eligible, including: • Education, employment and training opportunities, including those which are available at no cost to the individual; • Responsibilities associated with the repayment of student financial aid; • Supportive services available and the district’s responsibility to provide them; • Availability of transitional child care; • The availability of prenatal, infant and early childhood home visiting services, if they are available locally and an assessment indicates that the household is eligible and could benefit from such services; • The assistance which is available upon request to help individuals assigned to work activities to get child care, and • Responsibilities in establishing paternity and enforcing child support obligations. Additionally, TA applicants must be informed at, or within one month of orientation of the following: