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TANF POLICY MANUAL

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2. Required Application Forms To apply for TANF benefits, applicants must complete the DSS Form 3800, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Application; Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Application; Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) Application.

3. Application Covers All DSS Program Areas In the application process, applicants may be evaluated for TANF and SNAP without filing separate applications. All programs must be explained to each applicant. An applicant may apply for TANF and/or SNAP by checking the appropriate box on the DSS Form 3800 after this explanation has been provided.

4. Availability of Application The county office must make the application readily available to potentially eligible households and to interested groups and organizations. Any person expressing an interest in applying for TANF must be given an application form to complete.

5. Legal Document Uses The signed application forms are the county's legal documents that:

A. Provide the county office with sufficient information to begin an accurate determination of eligibility or ineligibility. B. Advise the applicant of his/her rights and responsibilities. C. Advise the applicant of the policy on exchange of client information with other government agencies and serve as a release of information to non-governmental agencies. D. Inform the applicant that the toll-free number shown on the DSS Form 3800 may be used to obtain the address and phone number of any DSS office to report changes in circumstances if calling from outside their local calling area (e.g., long distance). E. Inform the applicant of his/her responsibility to provide complete and accurate information. F. Provide a document that may be introduced as evidence in court when fraud is suspected. G. Inform the applicant that at the time of application or redetermination, information that is available through the Income and Eligibility Verification System (IEVS) will be requested and used. If discrepancies are found, the information will be verified. Such information may affect the BG's eligibility and level of benefits.(See 7.2)

6. Filing an Application Each individual has the right to file an application on the same day he/she contacts any DSS office. 7. Application Submission The application must be submitted to any DSS office either:

• In person • Through an authorized representative • By fax or other electronic submission • By mail or