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Vermont Department for Children and Families Reach First Rules Economic Services Division 2100 3

2. “Reach First” means Vermont’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) diversion program established under 33 V.S.A. chapter 10 and operated in accordance with Reach First rules 2100 to 2121. 3. “Reach First benefit” means one or more cash payments to assist a household to improve their finances and avert the need for Reach Up benefits. 4. “Reach First services” means the services component of the Reach First program consisting of assessment, case management services, support services, and referrals provided to eligible households to assist them in becoming self-sufficient. 2102 Eligibility (08/01/2024, 23-32) a. To qualify for Reach First, the applicant must meet the income and resource eligibility requirements for Reach Up. b. The household must include an eligible child. c. The 60-month time limit (Reach Up Eligibility rule 2234) does not apply to Reach First eligibility. d. In addition to qualifying for Reach Up benefits, the applicant must meet the Reach First eligibility criteria.

e. Households that qualify for, and participate in, Reach First are initially certified as eligible for a four – month certification period that begins with the first day of the first calendar month in which the household receives Reach First benefits.

1. The certification period may be shortened if changes in the household's circumstances make them ineligible. 2103 Financial Eligibility (08/01/2024, 23-32)

a. A household is financially eligible for Reach First if the household’s income and resources are below the limits established for the Reach Up program, which are incorporated into Reach First rules by reference except for the following sections:

1. Benefit Payment (Reach Up Eligibility rule 2214.1);

2. Cooperation with Office of Child Support (Reach Up Eligibility rule 2232.2); and

3. Appeal of Reach Up Decision (Reach Up Eligibility rule 2262.3). 2104 Initial Interview (08/01/2024, 23-32)

a. An initial interview shall be conducted in accordance with Reach Up Eligibility rule 2208.2. b. The interview shall include enough information about programs, benefits, and participant responsibilities to enable applicants to make informed decisions about program participation. c. During the interview the Department shall provide the following to all applicants:

1. Information about all programs administered by the department, services and referrals available