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West Virginia Income Maintenance Manual Chapter 1

West Virginia Income Maintenance Manual Page 14 Chapter 1 Application/Redetermination Process

• During the SNAP interview, explain to the client they are required to self-attest whether they or any other member of their household have been convicted of certain crimes as an adult and if they are complying with the terms of their conviction. See 3.2.1.B.3. The worker should emphasize this attestation is legally binding. If the applicant’s attestation is questionable, the Agency must verify each element of the questionable attestation. • Assist the client in obtaining information required to establish his eligibility. o Determine whether or not the client is able to cooperate. o If he is able, but has not complied, instruct the client that his failure to fulfill his obligation may result in one or more of the following actions: ▪ Denial of the application ▪ Closure of the active AG ▪ Removal of the individual from the AG ▪ Repayment of benefits ▪ Reduction in benefits o The action taken by the Worker depends on the specific requirement. These actions are found with the specific policy or in this chapter under the program-specific information. • Maintain the confidentiality of all information received from or about the client. • Per client request, make his case information available, including all electronic submissions and paper documentation, during normal business hours. See DOHS Common Chapters Section 230 for additional information. • Ensure that copies of all pertinent information are placed in the client's case record or given to appropriate staff to file. • Ensure that proper case recordings are made to document the Worker's actions and the reason for such actions. • Ensure that information about available community resources addressing sexual harassment and domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking is available to all persons who request it, or who, in the Worker’s judgment, may benefit from it. In addition, the Worker must make an immediate referral to the appropriate domestic violence or community agency when the client requests such assistance. When possible, the referral must be made the same day. If the agency cannot make arrangements to see the client the same day, a referral to the Division of Children and Adult Services must be made the same day, if possible. See Section 1.2.12.D, Special Situations for additional information about handling domestic violence situations.