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TANF POLICY MANUAL

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U. A basic Learning Disability screening must be completed as appropriate for A/R’s. V. The requirement that a minor parent applicant must live with a parent/legal guardian or meet an exception. (see 3.6.3 Living Arrangement of Minor Parents).

2.4 Applicant Support Services DSS is committed to providing support services for applicants to assist in completing the required initial job search or to obtain or maintain employment. Applicant support services may include childcare and work-related expenses needed to secure or maintain employment and expenses to ensure family stability while employed. NOTE: It is the responsibility of the ES Worker to assist the applicant with their request and need for Applicant Support Services. For other support services, during the application period, counties should utilize resources available within their community. Other support services, such as non-recurring or one-time short-term assistance may be considered upon approval of the TANF application.

NOTE: Non-recurring, one-time short-term assistance is: 1. Designed to deal with a specific crisis situation or episode of need

2. Not intended to meet recurring or ongoing needs.

3. Not to extend beyond four months within a 12-month period.

Such types of assistance include, but are not limited to rent, utilities, overdue bills, etc.

1. Eligibility Criteria for Applicant Support Services The ES Worker must consider the following concerning eligibility for Applicant Support Services:

A. Applicant must complete the initial interview and appear to be eligible for TANF cash benefits, and in need of services to conduct the initial job search, obtain or maintain employment.

NOTE: This determination is based on information known to the ES Worker and supplied by the applicant. For individuals that are employed, the CHIP mini budget, AFMB, should be completed.

B. If the applicant obtains a job during the application period and the income from the job prevents TANF eligibility, support services can be granted for up to four months, as needed (excluding child care (see 2.5) for child care guidelines)

C. An applicant who finds employment between the time the application is filed and before he/she is interviewed may also be eligible for up to four months of support services (excluding child care).

D. An applicant must be told that if Applicant Support Services funds are improperly used, DSS will make every effort to recoup the money expended.