Page 239

Page | 238 D. Resources Benefits Specialists must verify resources only if questionable. Reviewing past circumstances and what is currently being reported will allow the EABS to determine if a situation is questionable. If questionable, then documentary verification is necessary to verify resources. When Specialist cannot get documentary verification of liquid or non-liquid resources, they may use a collateral contact. Specialist must document the method used to get the information and the reason it was required in the case file. Specialist should use form EA- 208, Authorization to Release Information, to get information from nearby banks or savings institutions, or similar sources, to establish whether the household has accounts or other liquid resources.

Specialists can verify the value of real property by multiplying the assessed tax value by the correct reciprocal, but only when no other documentary or collateral verification is available and if the result reasonably represents the actual current fair market value of the resources.

E. Loans Specialists must verify loans, if questionable. DSS does not require a legally binding agreement. A statement signed by both parties that the payment is a loan and must be repaid is acceptable verification.

12600 VERIFYING OUT OF STATE REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION

When a request from another State is received to verify benefits in the State of South Dakota or any other verification of information in order to determine eligibility in another state; the EABS will respond within 20 working days of receipt of the request for information. EABS will provide copies of documents requested, including but not limited to, copies of Identification, benefit information, pay stubs, or any other verification the customer has provided the state. In addition, screen shots of eligibility can also be provided.

____________________________________________________________________________