STEPS IN VERIFICATION PROVISIONS
§ 205.1. Policy.
(a) General. Steps in verification generally are as follows:
(1) In Chapter 121 (relating to general intake and redetermination provisions) and Chapter 177 (relating to resources), are set forth which will guide the worker in dealing with the assistance client as a responsible individual, that is, one who must participate actively in proving his need for public assistance. In proving his actual need, he will be required to give complete information about whatever resources he may have or can obtain. To prove the lack of or amount of certain resources he will be asked to obtain documentary evidence whenever possible, and must permit the County Office to verify the evidence as well as oral statements.
(2) This chapter is devoted to a general discussion of the meaning of proof or evidence as it relates to determination of eligibility for assistance. Also included in this section are the methods used to verify a possible resource when it is deemed necessary to use informational sources other than the applicant or recipient. Certain miscellaneous resources not covered in other sections of this part are included as part of this section. This section will also describe methods which may be used in processing requests for investigation of a resource, or lack of one, when the requests are initiated by the social service staff or other designated personnel.
(b) Methods of operation. The use of outside sources of information should be planned and selective rather than routine and comprehensive. The manner in which community contacts are established and used will have a direct relationship to the good will or standing enjoyed by the public assistance program not only on a local level but Statewide. Constant efforts should be made to attain and preserve congenial and cooperative relationships with sources of information. One important step in achieving this goal will be a continuing program for improvement of current methods for obtaining information, thereby reducing effort, time and frequency factors to an absolute minimum. Persons contacted will be justified in expressing their resentment to time-consuming operations which are lengthened because of incomplete identifying information or duplication of requests. Care should be taken to ensure that the source of information understands why the information is necessary and that it will be treated confidentially after it has been received.
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