Since it “has come to CDSS’ attention that there are various forms” that the counties are using to request verification of client information, DSS has revised the recommended form previously issued, and mandated the use of the new form.  Counties must seek prior approval before modifying and using a county request.  Includes a summary of the verification requirements, by program. [Download]

CDSS is passing on updated EBT materials about access to surcharge-free locations and anti-trafficking/scam alerts. (And a reminder that CalFresh benefits use can never be subject to a surcharge.)  Plus, there is a cool new pilot that started in February that will generate robocalls to recipients who incur five or more surcharge fees per month. The robocall will be made at the end of the month to alert recipients prior to accessing their next month’s benefit issuance and which provides information on surcharge free locations, free cash back, and direct deposits.  The ACIN also discusses the new law regarding direct deposits and “pre-paid” cards that can be used like credit cards. [Download]

This ACIN transmits a new “reminder letter” for the CalWORKs and CalFresh programs. Client currently get an “X” or “Y” (NA 960) notices if they do not turn in their SAR 7 by the 11th of the month, or the SAR 7 is not complete.  If, after receiving the X or Y notice the client submits a SAR 7 that is incomplete, CWDs are not required to issue another NOA. However, absent another NOA, the client is likely to think they complied with the original NA 960 X or NA 960 Y and that the discontinuance action will be rescinded.  The new reminder letter, the SAR 90, informs clients that the SAR 7 they submitted is still not complete and to provide clients another opportunity to submit a complete SAR 7 to avoid discontinuance of their cash aid and/or CalFresh benefits.  The SAR 90 must specify what questions need to be answered or what verification needs to be provided for the SAR 7 to be complete.  The NOA does not grant a new 90 day appeal period, but does state that the person may still appeal based on the original notice date.   [Download]

Finally, a “recommended” resolution to the problem of when someone gets a notice of an incomplete or late SAR 7, and turns something in, thinking all’s good…but the submission is incomplete. This Notice transmits a new SAR 90 form, which reminds the person that the report they turned in is not complete, they will still be discontinued, and what is missing.  Appeal rights run from the original notice, but the reminder lists the state hearing number to call. [Download]