Clarifying Information - WAC 388-452-0010

Applies only to persons who receive TANF cash aid.

Additional requirements for persons fleeing domestic abuse: Additional requirements may be available for persons currently receiving TANF or Refugee Cash Assistance fleeing domestic abuse. See EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE for rules and procedures.

Family violence may be a barrier for work: Family violence victims face several hurdles in successfully moving from welfare to work because: The physical and emotional effects of past or present abuse may hinder job performance or work search. The abuser may try to sabotage the victims'; education, training and employment to keep them dependent upon the abuser. The abuser may threaten the safety of the victim's children or family members. The demands of court intervention, criminal prosecution, safety planning, physical and mental recovery, or counseling may interfere with work, education or training. The victim may need to move or disrupt work to escape a violent living arrangement.

Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP): Since the degree of family violence varies greatly, the intent of this section is to help the worker determine an IRP. The following levels may help to determine whether or not a deferral and/or waiver is necessary: Level 1 - This group identifies victims of family violence who do not want or need any referrals or deferrals and/or waivers from work requirements. Level 2 - This group identifies victims of family violence who want supportive services and/or referrals, but do not need deferrals and/or waivers from work requirements. Level 3 - This group identifies victims of family violence who need referrals to local resources and deferrals and/or waivers to gain stability before actively seeking employment.

See the WorkFirst Handbook for more information on participation activities for family violence victims.