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West Virginia Income Maintenance Manual Chapter 20

West Virginia Income Maintenance Manual Page 29 Chapter 20 Emergency and Special Assistance Programs

Type Unit Maximum Amount Bottled Gas Gallons 135 Bottled Gas Pounds 300 Coal Tons 1 Fuel Oils Gallons 150 Wood Cords 1

When the client has an emergency need for wood pellets or any other type of bulk fuel not listed in the chart, the Worker will work with the vendor to determine a reasonable amount. The following statement must be entered on all DFA-67 forms authorizing any type of liquid fuel: "The client must specify the correct grade and type of fuel." When the provider refuses to make a delivery because of an existing unpaid balance, the Worker must allow the client and provider to determine what item will be paid. Payment cannot be authorized for both items. If the client and vendor agree to payment of the unpaid balance, the amount authorized cannot exceed the equivalent cost of the maximum amount of fuel shown in the chart above. If either or both parties refuse to accept payment as outlined in this section, the application is denied. 20.2.4.C Food Payment may be authorized for applicants who have an emergency need for food. However, in the majority of instances, emergency food needs can be met by using SNAP benefits, provided the applicant meets the eligibility requirements of SNAP. If the applicant refuses to accept SNAP as a resource to meet his emergency food needs, the application for EA is denied. When the applicant is found eligible for SNAP, the SNAP application must be processed as soon as possible to prevent or eliminate the emergency. If the applicant needs food prior to the receipt of his SNAP benefits, the Worker may authorize payment for emergency food if the applicant is otherwise eligible.