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Vermont Department for Children and Families Reach First Rules Economic Services Division 2100 10

b. Reach Up Services rules 2327.1 – 2327.4 apply to conciliations within the Reach First program. c. The Department shall initiate conciliation when one of the following circumstances, without good cause, exist: 1. A participant does not engage in the development of their FDP; 2. A participant does not attend assessment and evaluation activities; or

3. A participant does not engage with their FDP requirements. 2119 Referral and Transition to Reach Up or PSE (08/01/2024, 23-32)

a. The Department shall transfer the household to Reach Up or PSE if, after four months of receiving Reach First benefits, or sooner at the Department's discretion, a household needs additional time and services.

1. The Reach First household may choose not to be transferred to Reach Up or PSE. b. If a household finds unsubsidized employment that meets the federal work requirements for the household's size and composition, but is financially eligible for Reach Up, the Department shall transfer the household to Reach Up. 1. The Reach First household may choose not to be transferred to Reach Up. 2. A household transferring from Reach First to Reach Up shall be treated as a participant for the purposes of resource calculation. c. If a participant is employed when they leave Reach First and are not eligible for Reach Up or PSE, the household shall qualify for support services for a period of 6 months (rule 2304), unless the household chooses not to participate.

d. A Reach First household transferring to Reach Up or PSE shall not be required to complete a new application. 1. Verification of income, assignment of support rights, or other documentation related to changes in circumstances may be required. 2. If transferring to PSE, a PSE plan must be created and approved. e. A Reach First household with a working adult who leaves Reach First and is not eligible for Reach Up may be eligible for Transitional Medical Assistance for up to 12 months, pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 1396r–6, beginning with the month immediately following the month in which they become ineligible. 2120 Notice and Appeal (08/01/2024, 23-32)

a. A participant may appeal decisions made by the Department in accordance with Reach Up Services rule 2331, except that Reach First benefits do not continue while an appeal is pending. b. The Department shall provide notice to each participant of the standards and procedures applicable to such appeals.