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TANF POLICY MANUAL

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2.10 Accrual Rights Accrual rights are an applicant’s/recipient’s right to benefits based on the date of application or change in situation.

When an applicant meets all of the eligibility criteria, the right to TANF cash benefits starts the date of application or the date requested verification was provided if received within the 2nd 30-day period following the application date, when a BG fails to provide the required information within the first 30-day application period. Failure to provide information (FP) during the first 30-day application period is the only denial reason in which the BG has a 2nd 30-day period to provide the verification and receive prorated benefits. (See 8.4)

1. Ineligible First Month Due to anticipated changes, the BG may be ineligible for the month of application but eligible for the subsequent month, when a BG has returned all verification within the first 30-day application period. If this occurs, benefits will begin the first day of the second month. The benefit pro-ration date must be changed to the first day of the second month on CHIP screen, APMA. A benefit prorate reason of "OT" (Other) must be entered. The ES Worker must send CHIP Notice A113, Eligible 2nd Month-Ineligible 1st Month. The BG does not have to reapply to be eligible the subsequent month (second month).

2. Eligible First Month – Ineligible Subsequent Months Due to anticipated changes, the BG may be eligible for the month of application, but ineligible for the subsequent month. The application should be approved for the month of application and closed for the subsequent month. The ES Worker must send an approval notice for the 1st month and a closure notice for the 2nd month. A 10-day notice requirement is not needed for this situation.

2.11 Benefit Use Use of TANF cash benefits cannot be limited or restricted by policy. A/R’s have the right to make their own decisions and to manage their own finances. However, States receiving TANF grants are required to maintain policies and practices as necessary to prevent assistance provided under the State program funded under TANF from being used in any electronic benefit transfer transaction in any liquor store; any casino, gambling casino, or gaming establishment; or any retail establishment which provides adult-oriented entertainment in which performers disrobe or perform in an unclothed state for entertainment.

EXCEPTION: When TANF cash benefits are not used in the best interest of the child(ren), a protective payee should be considered. (See 11.3)

2.12 Time Limit A BG may only receive cash benefits from the TANF Program for 24 months in a 10 year period and 60 months in a lifetime.

2.13 Voter Registration The National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) requires that voter registration services be provided to all A/R’s at application, redetermination and when a change of address is reported. These services include: