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TANF POLICY MANUAL

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NOTE: If the disability of a Track 1 participant were to become more severe and an updated determination by a licensed health care professional verifies that the disability is permanent and total, the participant should be moved to Track 2.

B. CARES Track 2 Characteristics The CARES CM should be aware of the following characteristics for Track 2 participants: 1. A Track 2 recipient is one who experiences a permanent and total disability severe enough to prevent full/part-time employment or participation in training activities and is expected to last more than 90 days. Our primary goal in working with Track 2 recipients would be to assist them in applying for and ultimately receiving disability benefits under the SSI or RSDI programs. NOTE: CARES Case Managers must work with these recipients to assist them in the SSI or RSDI (social security disability) application process.

2. The CARES CM will monitor referral and participation through the application process and offer assistance and encouragement as necessary. It will be the CM’s responsibility to ensure that the application is filed and to assist the client in the SSI/SSA interview process. Additionally, the CM will follow up with the client at least monthly to determine if a decision has been rendered in regards to the application. Once a decision is rendered, if it is adverse to the client, the CM must assist the client in following the steps necessary to file an appeal. It will be the CM’s responsibility to ensure deadlines are met in getting the appeal initiated. Additionally, follow ups will be done at least monthly with the client to determine if a decision has been reached. NOTE: The Case Manager is responsible for setting up the initial appointment and making sure transportation is available. The case manager will assist the client through this process from beginning to end.

NOTE: Any and all Support Services provided to TANF Work Program participants must also be made available to Track 2 recipients when needed to assist in activities.

12. SSA Criteria for Permanent Disability When making the disability determination for Track 2 participants, or to determine total and permanent disability, the CM should use the criteria for permanent disability established by the Social Security Act.

Documentation in the case file should also include that the disability prevents full participation in the work program for a durational period of 90 days or more. Those criteria are:

A. Permanent loss of use of two limbs or amputation of: