CDSS instructs counties on Social Security process

CalWORKs eligibility rules require applicants and recipients to seek and accept potentially available income, such as other public benefits. Due to a lack of understanding regarding the Social Security and SSI disability determination and appeals processes, some counties have required CalWORKs applicants and recipients to submit (or attempt to submit) new applications to Social Security when another application was already pending or on appeal. Citing a July 2011 Social Security ruling (SSR 11-1p) that bars subsequent applications for benefits when a prior application is under review, CDSS now prohibits counties from requiring CalWORKs applicants and recipients from filing new claims for Social Security and SSI when an appeal is pending. ACL 14-109.