The Internet-based Benefits Eligibility System for Oklahomans (BESO) helps people understand the government benefits for which they are eligible and apply to receive those benefits. Developed in partnership with the Tulsa Community Action Program (CHP), BESO is an eligibility screening tool, benefit calculator and electronic application generator for more than 30 public benefits. By using the BESO system, clients can find out at one time all of the benefits for which they qualify rather than making multiple trips to different locations.
The United States Department of Agriculture awarded the BESO project a $5 million Food Stamp Program Participation Grant. The project will expand the BESO system by building a "data bridge." Data collected by BESO will be exchanged and integrated into the OKDHS eligibility system automatically without any subsequent data entry and without any requirement for the client to re-enter any basic demographic information on additional forms. The data will be accepted by the OKDHS as a request for services, which will establish an official application with OKDHS. In addition, CAP will build a Web site version of BESO.
After a 15- to 20-minute screening process, BESO will produce a list of the benefits for which a client is eligible, including specific benefit amounts and application requirements. For most programs operated by OKDHS - including Food Stamps, Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and child care assistance programs - clients can apply electronically for benefits through the BESO system, saving at least one initial visit to an OKDHS office.
CAP has recruited other partner agencies in Tulsa who also use BESO to help their clients access services. Public and private partner agencies using BESO include Ability Resources; American Legion, Post 105; Catholic Charities; Child Abuse Network; Children First; Even Start; Family and Children's Services (Head Start); Healthy Families and Babies; Iron Gate; John 3:16 Mission; Lighthouse Outreach; OU Tulsa Bedlam Community Health Projects; PAT Program; A Pocket Full of Hope; RAIN OK; Resonance; SoonerStart; Success by 6; Washington County Health Department and Workforce Oklahoma.