Page 103

1000.24 TANF MANUAL 7/11 PAGE 89

2. The ESW will evaluate the request based on current guidance and will complete the Hardship Exception Determination Form (032-03-0376) and submit it to the Employment Services supervisor for approval of the recommended action.

3. The ESW will send the client a Notice of Hardship Exception (032-03-0377) notifying the client of the approval or denial of the hardship exception request, and the reason for approval or denial.

4. If the hardship exception request is denied, the notice will also inform the client of the TANF case closure date. The client may appeal the denial of the hardship exception as well as the closure of the TANF case.

5. If the hardship exception request is approved, the notice will explain the terms of approval including the begin (start) and end date of the exception. Additionally,

a. The ESW will determine the length of an employment-related education or training exception, up to a maximum one year, based on the time necessary for the participant to complete the course of study.

b. The ESW will determine the length of an exception based on an unfavorable labor market, up to a maximum one year, or on an exception based on unemployment or loss of employment, up to a maximum of 90 days, based on the client’s individual situation, local labor market considerations, and planned outcomes from program participation.

6. If the hardship request is approved, the notice will set a first exception reassessment date no later than 90 days after the date of the notice.

Transmittal 47