Revised 3-26-10

1.   For cases where continuation of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is appropriate, the CW worker:

(1) notifies the assigned Family Support social services specialist within five working days from the filing of the petition that continued adult only TANF benefits for the adult(s) is requested;

(2) assembles a team consisting of, at a minimum, the parent or needy caretaker, the social services specialist or supervisor, or both, and the Child Welfare (CW) worker to develop an individualized service plan within 15 working days from the filing of the petition.  This plan must address the conditions that caused the child to be removed from the home and include any TANF requirements.  This plan must identify the behavioral changes needed, and steps necessary to address the safety threats to allow the child to return home safely;

(3) holds monthly staffings with the team to discuss the parent or needy caretaker's progress on the individualized service plan and assist the parent or needy caretaker in elimination of any barriers to completion of the plan.  The CW worker immediately notifies the assigned social services specialist when the child is returned home or when reunification will not occur within the four-month period;

(4) immediately notifies the assigned Family Support social services specialist if the anticipated return of the child changes; and

(5) when the child is returned home within the four month period, continues to have monthly contact with the assigned social service specialist until the CW case is successfully closed.

2.   If the child remains out of the home longer than four months, the parent or needy caretaker's eligibility discontinues.

3.   If the child is placed in a relative's home and TANF benefits are requested by this relative for the child, the parent or needy caretaker is eligible for continuing adult only TANF.  If the relative also requests adult benefits, the parent or needy caretaker is not eligible for continuing adult only TANF benefits.

4.   In situations where a family-centered services case is opened by CW and the child is placed voluntarily by the parent or needy caretaker, the continued eligibility of the parent or needy caretaker is addressed in OAC 340:10-3-56(b)(5).