Page 46

TANF POLICY MANUAL

_____________________________________________________________________________________________ 46

NOTE: Non-applicants and ineligible BG members are not required to provide SSNs, information about citizenship, immigration status or other nonfinancial criteria required for persons applying for benefits.

Depending on the BG composition and other case specific circumstances, the following must be verified: 1. Student status of the dependent child(ren) 2. Work program requirements 3. Minimum child support information 4. Assignment of right to child support 5. Initial job search contacts

2.24 Immunization Verification The ES Worker must request proof of a child(ren)'s immunizations at the application interview. Sources of verification include, but are not limited to, a physician's statement, health department immunization card, or certificate of immunization.

NOTE: If a child(ren) has attended five-year old kindergarten or a higher grade in South Carolina, or attends a licensed day care center, the ES Worker may assume the child(ren) has been appropriately immunized and no proof is necessary.

2.25 Verification Responsibility The A/R and the ES Worker are responsible for verifying the elements of eligibility. Verification on file must be used unless information is inconsistent, inaccurate, or incomplete.

The ES Worker must not deny an application solely because of the failure of a non-BG member to cooperate in providing needed verification.

NOTE: An A/R who is a victim of domestic/family violence and is being sheltered in a safe home or other residence, may not be able to obtain documentary evidence to establish eligibility. The ES Worker should assist with the verification to the extent possible. The application should not be denied solely on the basis of failure to provide verification.

1. Documentary Evidence (Primary) The preferred method of verification for all elements of eligibility is documentary evidence, a written confirmation of a BG's circumstance. Documentary evidence can be supplied in person, through the mail or by an authorized representative. When documentary evidence cannot be obtained or is insufficient, the ES Worker must use alternative sources of verification, such as collateral contacts.

2. Collateral Contact (Secondary) A collateral contact is not restricted to a particular individual. However, the collateral is advised of the necessity to reveal his/her identity to the A/R on request if the information provided results in