104.2 Application Process

The application process begins when a person, or someone acting on their behalf, files a completed, signed application with the CAO . See Section 104.54 . Under some circumstances, a signed application is not required. See Chapter 179 .

Upon receiving the PA 600 or COMPASS application, the CAO must take the following actions:

Date-stamp the PA 600 .

NOTE: A COMPASS application does not need to be date stamped. The application is imported into AP from the COMPASS application system. This importation date is automatically entered by the system and becomes the tracking date.

NOTE: Applications, renewals, and other documentation sent via email and received in a CAO resource account may be dragged and dropped into ImageTrust. The CAO will use the date and time received in the CAO resource account except for applications received after business hours. Applications received after business hours will be considered to be received on the next business day. The email showing receipt date and time must be dragged and dropped into ImageTrust along with any other attachments. The CAO must narrate the date and time of receipt in case comment to match document received date.

Enter demographic information to control (or track) the application and when it is received.

File-clear (including Data Exchange (DX) ) all the persons listed.

Assign a case record number for each signed application.

Conduct a screening interview .

55 Pa. Code § 125.24(b)

Help the applicant complete the application and obtain and verify information. See Chapter 178 .

Conduct an application interview .

55 Pa. Code § 125.24(c)

Verify certain information.

Authorize or reject the application.

Notify the applicant in writing of eligibility or ineligibility and the reason for the decision.

55 Pa. Code § 125.1(k)

NOTE: These actions may be completed separately or at the same time, according to CAO procedures.

For the CAO to determine eligibility, the applicant must:

Participate in an interview to supply additional information; and

55 Pa. Code § 125.21(a)

Provide verification of certain information.

55 Pa. Code § 125.21(b)

Updated August 28, 2025, replacing January 18, 2023