Library: Policy

1.Continuation of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).When continuation of TANF is appropriate, the CW specialist:

(1) notifies the assigned Adult and Family Services (AFS) worker within five business days from the date the deprived petition is filed that continued adult only TANF benefits for the adult(s) are 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) specialist to develop an individualized service plan within 15 business days from the date the deprived petition is filed.The plan:

(A) identifies the conditions that caused the child's removal from the home;

(B) includes any TANF requirements; and

(C) details 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;

(4) assists the parent or needy caretaker eliminate barriers to completion of the plan;

(5) immediately notifies the assigned AFS worker when the child is returned home or when reunification will not occur within the four-month period;

(6) immediately notifies the assigned AFS worker if the anticipated return of the child changes; and

(7) when the child is returned home within the four month period, continues monthly contact with the assigned AFS worker until the CW case is successfully closed.

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

3.TANF benefit for adult relative or parent.When the child is removed from the parent who is a TANF recipient and placed in a relative's home, TANF benefits may be requested for the child by the relative and the parent or needy caretaker is eligible for continuing adult only TANF.When the relative also requests adult benefits for him or herself while providing care for the child, the parent or needy caretaker is not eligible for continuing adult only TANF benefits.The adult relative caring for the child and the parent from whom the child was removed may not receive adult TANF benefits at the same time.

4.Family-centered services and TANF benefits. When a family-centered services case is opened by Child Welfare Services and the child is voluntarily placed outside the home by the parent or needy caretaker, the parent or needy caretaker's continued eligibility is addressed per OAC 340:10-3-56(b)(5).