104.5 Processing an Application

The CAO must make a decision on eligibility within 30 calendar days of the application filing date . If there is enough information to determine eligibility for Medical Assistance, the CAO must not delay authorization of Medical Assistance while waiting for verification of Cash Assistance eligibility.

55 Pa. Code § 125.24(c)(7)(v)

NOTE: Applications may not be rejected for failure to provide verifications until day 31.

If the applicant has cooperated in trying to get verification and the CAO is waiting for the needed verification from a third party or a domestic relations section, the initial authorization of assistance must not be delayed beyond 30 days after application. See Chapter 178 .

55 Pa. Code § 125.21(b)(1)

NOTE: If documentation of an abusive living situation is not readily available and it appears that third-party verification cannot be obtained within the application processing period, the CAO may authorize assistance on the basis of the person’s statement.

NOTE: The CAO must use the "Comments" section of the record to provide a continuous record of supporting information that is not specifically recorded in the case record.

At application, the CAO must record the following information:

The reason for the application denial if a full application interview is not scheduled.

NOTE: This may be recorded during the screening interview .

Any pertinent information that is not on the PA 600 .

The date and place of the interview.

If needed, an additional explanation of reasons for or circumstances of the application that are not already listed on the PA 600 (for example, past management).

55 Pa. Code § 125.21(b)(1)

Any plans established with the applicant in addition to those recorded.

An explanation of major differences between the information on the PA 600 and the information in the case record.

The application process ends when one of the following occurs :

The applicant does not proceed with the application or withdraws.

NOTE: The CAO must discuss any misunderstanding of agency requirements or methods to prevent an applicant from withdrawing when it is not wise or necessary to do so.

The applicant is found ineligible for Cash Assistance, and the CAO determines eligibility for Medical Assistance and SNAP benefits.

The applicant is found eligible and assistance is authorized.

55 Pa. Code § 125.24(c)(7)(v)

The CAO must send a Notice to Applicant when the eligibility decision is made.

55 Pa. Code § 125.1(k)