Worker Responsibilities

Disclosure to third parties: The department must disclose to anyone making inquiry whether or not a named individual is currently receiving assistance. The department's response is limited to a "yes" or "no" answer. Further information is prohibited without a release from the client.

Disclosure to courts of law: Information can only be disclosed with a court order.

Disclosure to government officials: Treat requests from government officials like any other third-party request. Refer the request to the CSO Public Disclosure Coordinator.

Special situations: Translators and contractors must be informed of the rules regarding confidentiality and are bound by those rules to the same degree as a department employee. See INTERVIEW REQUIREMENTS for rules and procedures related to TANF/SFA Family Violence Screening and Referral. See RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES for rules and procedures related to the rights and responsibilities of a client receiving public assistance. See the NSA (Needs Supplemental Accommodation) Handbook for rules and procedures for NSA.