Clarifying Information - WAC 388-432-0005

TANF / SFA eligibility: In order to be eligible for Diversion Cash Assistance (DCA), the assistance unit (AU) must meet all of the eligibility requirements for TANF/SFA except WorkFirst requirements and assignment of child support rights. See PROGRAM SUMMARY for the eligibility requirements of each program. The eligibility requirements include the limits for earned income, unearned income and resources.

Ineligible for cash assistance: Reasons why an adult member of a family may not be eligible for DCA include but are not limited to: Immigration status; Conviction in a state or federal court for unlawful practices in getting TANF/SFA; Conviction in a state or federal court of misrepresenting residence in order to get public assistance in two or more states; Disqualification because of being a fleeing felon; TANF/SFA was closed while in WorkFirst sanction on or after July 1, 2021; or TANF/SFA was closed because of an NCS (non-compliance sanction); A member of the household is in non-compliance with the division of child support; or An adult in the AU is over the TANF time limit, and no adults in the household qualify for a time limit extension. Child only cases (with non-needy relative caretaker) are not eligible for DCA.

Effect of DCA on food assistance: If DCA payment is made directly to the client: It is considered a non-recurring lump sum payment and not counted as income. It is counted as a resource in the month received. If DCA payment is made directly to the vendor: It is considered a vendor payment for emergency and special assistance and not counted as income. It is not counted as a resource.

In determining the need for DCA, utilities are considered part of the housing costs.