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TANF POLICY MANUAL

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4. Prompt Application Processing DSS encourages the completion of application processing as soon as all required verification has been received. The timeliness standard period is not to be used as a waiting period before granting benefits.

5. Exceptions to Timeliness Standards The only exceptions allowed for failure to meet the timeliness standards are the following:

A. Necessary information regarding eligibility was requested untimely and there is evidence that information will be received in the near future.

B. Needed information was not received, and the delay was caused by an administrative error or an emergency which could not be prevented.

NOTE: If the 30th day is a weekend or holiday, the timeliness due date becomes the next working day.

6. Required Action Failure to meet the timeliness standards requires the actions given in the following chart: Type of Delay Instructions and Action Required Applicant Caused Delay

Applicant has failed to complete the application process and DSS has taken all possible action to assist him/her. In this instance, the BG: • Loses its entitlement to benefits from the date of application. • Is sent a notice of denial on the 30th day following the application date. • Is eligible for prorated benefits from the date required information is received following the denial reason “FP” (failure to provide information), provided the verification is received within the second 30-day period (time period subsequent to the initial 30-day period). This is the only denial reason in which the BG receives a second 30-day period to provide verification. A benefit pro-ration date and a prorate reason of "VR" (Verification) must be entered on APMA. • Must file a new application after 60 days from original filing date in order to have eligibility determined. DSS (ES Worker) Caused Delay ES Worker failed to process the application within the initial 30 days from the date the application was filed and/or failed to take all possible action to assist the BG. In this instance, the ES Worker must: • Take immediate corrective action. Do not deny application. If approval is anticipated beyond the 30th day, override the automatic denial on CHIP screen INRD.