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TANF POLICY MANUAL

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2. Review of Protective Payment Cases The representative payee may be removed when the parent/caretaker relative is considered able to manage the benefits. Protective payee cases will be reviewed at least every 12 months to determine if a protective payee should continue.

3. Dual Responsibility The individual who agrees to act as protective payee for a recipient assumes a dual responsibility to the recipient and to DSS. In accepting an appointment, the protective payee assumes the obligation to see that the TANF payment is spent for the benefit of the family and to work cooperatively with DSS in fulfilling this role.

4. Non-Responsibilities The protective payee is not responsible for: A. Providing eligibility information B. Reporting changes C. Completing the application

5. Criteria for Selecting Protective Payees The following chart shows criteria used in selecting individuals to be protective payees:

Criteria Actions Required by Protective Payee Interest or concern in the welfare of the family Demonstrate interest in the well-being of a BG by regular and frequent visits, efforts to help at times of crisis and evidence of friendship beyond that of ordinary neighborly concern. Ability to help the family make proper use of the benefits Have ability in ordinary household budgeting, experience in purchasing food, clothing and household supplies within a restricted income, and the knowledge of effective household practices. improving money management. The protective payment is terminated when the parent/caretaker relative is considered able to manage funds. (See 3.6.2) Minor parent, under the age of 18 When a minor parent under the age of 18 meets the eligibility criteria and is eligible for TANF benefits, the benefit must be paid to a protective payee, whenever possible. Drug related conviction When the parent or caretaker relative has a drug related felony conviction, the benefit must be paid to a protective payee. Fleeing Felon When the parent or caretaker relative is a fleeing felon, the benefit must be paid to a protective payee.