Author: Webdog

ACL 07-29: Access To Case Records And Use Of Manual Workarounds (8/17/07)

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A redux of the 2006 letter, given the on-going problems… Unrestricted access, regardless of how the file information is kept, and “in spite of the challenges … of automated information.” It even mentions that there “may be” a due process violation for failure to comply.  Automation in your way? do a manual workaround… And just to make extra clear, there’s a special section addressed to CalWIN and C-IV counties, with such great options as having a staff person help the recipient navigate all the read-only pages, or printing everything out at no cost. Finishes up with a little reminder that benefits must be issued timely, and if that pesky automation is in the way, to issue them manually. [Download]

ACIN I-44-07:Changes To SAWS 2 Form Regarding Utility Cost Information (8/22/07)

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Food Stamp Simplification changes the rules re: utilities. Now, the SAWS2 (application) has been changed to reflect those new rules. However, CDSS has advised counties they may use existing form stock until depleted, as long as they are “vigilant” about applying current policy. Which will be tricky since it’s not specifically on the form…. But heh, the new policy has been effective since 11/1/06, so hopefully they are used to working off an incorrect application! [Download]

ACIN I-42-07: Food Stamp Q & As (8/9/07)

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More of those pressing Food Stamps questions answered. Useful stuff like sponsored immigrant eligibility when the sponsor won’t cooperate (12 months through CalWORKs, before the immigrant is cut off, but FS can continue); Transitional Food Stamps (TFS) when there is Aid Paid Pending (no); TFS when there is a proposed sanction, but before it could be imposed, the family was discontinued from CalWORKs for QR 7 (yes); exempting as income contributions (any purpose) from a 3rd party, as long as used for the specified purpose, but the shelter allowance will be based on what the recipient actually pays (i.e. less the contribution towards rent); clarification that CalWORKs workstudy, in its entirety, is excluded as income for food stamps. [Download]

ACIN I-41-07: SB 1569 (Human Trafficking/Benefits) , Post-Implementation Questions And Answers (8/8/07)

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A much needed follow up on ACL 06-60, with policy clarifications about the implementation of the provision of public assistance to victims of trafficking. Recognizing the sensitivity of the issue, there is an attached suggested screening tool, and a list of resources. Key issues covered:

  1. Proof of trafficking (not “other serious crime” which requires a U Visa Interim Relief) = sworn statement + one piece of evidence, unless not available and county documents applicant is credible);
  2. Victims are required to seek a SSN and work authorization so they can comply with welfare to work;
  3. Food Stamps has NO work requirements (ABAWD, work registration, etc.) for this population;
  4. Discussion of what employment/training services are appropriate and when, including when physical or psychological trauma are such that the person cannot comply, as well as all the standard Refugee Services and CalWORKs exemptions;
  5. If a person with a T-visa is approved for the federal refugee program, s/he gets an additional 8 months of refugees services. (The 8 month through the state-only trafficking program don’t count against the federal benefits.);
  6. As solely-state funded (non-MOE) folks, trafficking (T and U visas) people are NOT in the federal welfare to work count. (So, you have a handle if the county is trying to focus on federal, instead of state, activities.)

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