Clarifying Information - WAC 388-460-0005

How clients designate an authorized representative: A client can designate an authorized representative by completing the appropriate section on the DSHS 14-001 Application for Benefits , DSHS 14-078 Eligibility Review , Washington Connection online application , or by completing a DSHS 14-532 Authorized Representative form .

Drug and Alcohol Treatment Centers: If a client receives food assistance in a qualified drug and alcohol treatment center, the treatment center must be the authorized representative.

DSHS PBS Staff as Authorized Representatives for Basic Food: DSHS Public Benefit Specialist (PBS) staff may not act as an authorized representative or Alternate Card Holder for a household’s Basic Food benefits. Staff having access to change benefits due to their position and acting on behalf of the household is a direct conflict of interest.

Verification: The identity of an authorized representative is a mandatory verification at application. See Verification Charts .

Alternative Card Holders: With the exception of a FNS certified drug and alcohol treatment center or group home, an authorized representative does not receive a Quest card or have the ability to access the AU's benefits. If a client needs someone outside of their AU to access the benefits, see information on Alternate Card Holders in When and How Benefits are Delivered .

Individuals who have Power of Attorney for a client: If an individual has Power of Attorney for a client, the person can be the client's authorized representative without the client having to specifically designate them as the authorized representative. If an individual has limited Power of Attorney, the Power of Attorney document must specifically give the person authority to act on the client's behalf for managing financial matters. If the document doesn't give the person this authority, the client must name the person as their authorized representative if they want them to act on their behalf.