Clarifying Information - WAC 388-404-0005

When a child turns 18: They are considered an adult and can receive assistance for themselves and their children. They must participate full-time in a secondary education program or an equal level of vocational training to be eligible for assistance. The child's eligibility for TANF/SFA ends on the last day of the month in which the child turns 18 if the child: Is not participating in their education on a full-time basis. Has met the basic requirements to complete the education or training program even if they haven't gone though the official graduation ceremony.

Needy caretaker relative of a child receiving SSI:

If the only child that meets the TANF/SFA age requirement gets SSI, the child parent or needy caretaker relative can get TANF or SFA for their own needs as long as the child meets the requirements of WAC 388-404-0005.

Education: See VERIFICATION for information on how to verify a child's age or school attendance. See TEEN PARENTS for the school attendance requirements for TANF and SFA AUs that have an unmarried parent under the age of 18. If a child is on summer vacation, we count the child as participating if they: Didn't finish the basic requirements to complete the program; and Are enrolled or intend to enroll as a full-time student for the next academic year. If a nineteen or 20 year old student attends only English as a Second Language classes or participated in non-state approved home schooling, as defined by RCW 28A.225.010 (4), the student is not eligible for SFA. A child in special education meets the school's definition of disabled and the requirements of WAC 388-404-0005(3) and is eligible for SFA.