COMMENT DUE DATE:  

February 14, 2019

DATE: 

January 15, 2019

Laura Brown Adult and Family Services 405-521-4396

Dena Thayer, Programs Administrator 405-521-4326

Nancy Kelly, Policy Specialist 405-522-6703

RE:  

APA WF 19-15

It is very important that you provide your comments regarding the DRAFT COPY of policy by the comment due date. Comments are directed to *STO.LegalServices.Policy@okdhs.org. 

The proposed policy is  Permanent .  This proposal is subject to Administrative Procedures Act

It is important that you provide your comments regarding the draft copy of policy by the comment due date.Comments are directed to STO.LegalServices.Policy@okdhs.org.The proposed policy is permanent.

A public hearing is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on February 26, 2019, at DHS, Sequoyah Memorial Office Building, 2400 N. Lincoln Boulevard, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105, Room C-48.Anyone who wants to speak must sign in at the door by 10:05 a.m.

SUBJECT:CHAPTER 15. STATE SUPPLEMENTAL PAYMENT AND THE SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME-DISABLED CHILDREN'SPROGRAM

Subchapter 1. State Supplemental Payment

340:15-1-2 [AMENDED]

340:15-1-4 through 340:15-1-6 [AMENDED]

Subchapter 3. Supplemental Security Income-Disabled Children's Program

340:15-3-1 [AMENDED]

(Reference WF 19-15)

SUMMARY:The proposed amendments to Chapter 15, Subchapter 1 amend the rules to:(1) change terminology regarding the definition of an eligible couple; (2) add timely application processing standards; (3) add information regarding income calculation at application and when staff must verify income and resource changes for individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI); (4) separate reasons a person is or is not eligible for a State Supplemental Payment (SSP); (5) add more reasons a person is not eligible to receive a SSP; (6) clarify income eligibility determinations for SSP; (7) add information that a child ineligible for SSP may be eligible for SoonerCare (Medicaid) under the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 known as TEFRA; (8) update terminology; (9) clarify and simplify language; (10) remove obsolete and unnecessary language; and (11) update and add policy and legal citations.

The proposed amendments to Chapter 15, Subchapter 3 amend the rules to:(1) add information regarding a child's eligibility to receive SSI-Disabled Children's Program (SSI-DCP) services when the child is in state custody and the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) retains the SSI payment; (2) remove diapers from services provided through SSI-DCP funds; (3) change which Adult and Family Services (AFS) staff is responsible for sending a denial to an SSI-DCP request and the form used to deny the request; (4) add respite voucher used to request SSI-DCP; (5) add a requirement that a respite provider must be at least 18 years of age; and (6) add a legal citation.

PERMANENT APPROVAL:Permanent rulemaking is requested.

LEGAL AUTHORITY:Director of Human Services; and Sections.17, 71, 162, 164, 168, and 183 of Title 56 of the Oklahoma Statutes; Sections 1382 and 1382b of Title 42 of the United States Code; and Section 504 of the Social Security Act.

Rule Impact Statement

To:Programs administrator

Legal Services - Policy

From:Patrick Klein,Director

Adult and Family Services

Date:December 14, 2018

Re:CHAPTER 15. STATE SUPPLEMENTAL PAYMENT AND THE SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME-DISABLED CHILDREN'S PROGRAM

Subchapter 1. State Supplemental Payment

340:15-1-2 [AMENDED]

340:15-1-4 through 340:15-1-6 [AMENDED]

Subchapter 3. Supplemental Security Income-Disabled Children's Program

340:15-3-1 [AMENDED]

(Reference WF 19-15)

Contact:Laura Brown 405-521-4396

A.Brief description of the purpose of the proposed rule:

Purpose.

The proposed amendments to Chapter 15, Subchapter 1 amend the rules to:(1) change terminology regarding the definition of an eligible couple; (2) add timely application processing standards; (3) add information regarding income calculation at application and when staff must verify income and resource changes for individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI); (4) separate reasons a person is or is not eligible for a State Supplemental Payment (SSP); (5) add more reasons a person is not eligible to receive a SSP; (6) clarify income eligibility determinations for SSP; (7) add information that a child ineligible for SSP may be eligible for SoonerCare (Medicaid) under the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 known as TEFRA; (8) update terminology; (9) clarify and simplify language; (10) remove obsolete and unnecessary language; and (11) update and add policy and legal citations.

The proposed amendments to Chapter 15, Subchapter 3 amend the rules to:(1) add information regarding a child's eligibility to receive SSI-Disabled Children's Program (SSI-DCP) services when the child is in state custody and the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) retains the SSI payment; (2) remove diapers from services provided through SSI-DCP funds; (3) change which Adult and Family Services (AFS) staff is responsible for sending a denial to an SSI-DCP request and the form used to deny the request; (4) add respite voucher used to request SSI-DCP; (5) add a requirement that a respite provider must be at least 18 years of age; and (6) add a legal citation.

Strategic Plan Impact. The proposed amendments achieve DHS goals by continuously improving systems and processes and improving communication with DHS clients and staff.

Substantive changes.

Subchapter 1. State Supplemental Payment

Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:15-1-2 is amended to:(1) change terminology regarding the definition of an eligible couple; and (2) add clarifying information.

OAC 340:15-1-4 is amended to:(1) add timely application processing standards; (2) add information regarding income calculation at application and when staff must verify income and resource changes for individuals receiving SSI; (3) remove obsolete language; (4) update terminology; and (5) add legal and policy citations.

OAC 340:15-1-5 is amended to:(1) separate reasons a person is or is not eligible for SSP; (2) add more reasons a person is not eligible to receive a SSP; (3) clarify income eligibility determinations for SSP; (4) simplify and clarify language; and (5) add policy and legal citations.

OAC 340:15-1-6 is amended to:(1) add information that a child ineligible for SSP may be eligible for SoonerCare (Medicaid) under TEFRA; (2) clarify and simplify language; (3) remove unnecessary language; and (4) add policy and legal citations.

Subchapter 3. Supplemental Security Income-Disabled Children's Program

OAC 340:65-3-1 is amended to:(1) add information regarding a child's eligibility to receive SSI-DCP services when the child is in state custody and DHS retains the SSI payment; (2) remove diapers from services provided through SSI-DCP funds; (3) change which AFS staff is responsible for sending a denial to an SSI-DCP request and the form used to deny the request; (4) add respite voucher used to request SSI-DCP; (5) add a requirement that a respite provider must be at least 18 years of age; and (6) add a legal citation.

Reasons.

The proposed amendments are amended to make policy easier to understand for clients, AFS staff, and the public by:(1) removing outdated information; (2) clarifying and simplifying information; and (2) updating terminology, a form name and number, and policy and legal citations.

The proposed amendment to separate reasons a person is or is not eligible for SSP is made for clarification purposes.The proposed additions regarding when a person is or is not eligible for SSP are not new requirements but were not explicitly stated.

The proposed amendments to add information regarding a child in state custody's eligibility for SSI-DCP services and a requirement that a respite provider must be at least 18 years of age are not new practices.They are added for clarification purposes.

Providing diapers as an SSI-DCP service is removed as the Oklahoma Health Care Authority now provides diapers through the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) program.

Repercussions.If the proposed amendments are not implemented, rules will not be updated and clarified and may affect service delivery.

Legal authority. Director of Human Services; and Sections.17, 71, 162, 164, 168, and 183 of Title 56 of the Oklahoma Statutes; Sections 1382 and 1382b of Title 42 of the United States Code; and Section 504 of the Social Security Act.

Permanent rulemaking approval is requested.

B.A description of the classes of persons who most likely will be affected by the proposed rule, including classes that will bear the costs of the proposed rule, and any information on cost impacts received by the Agency from any private or public entities:The classes of persons most likely to be affected by the proposed amendments are clients applying for or receiving SSP and SSI-DCP services and AFS staff.The affected classes of persons will bear no costs associated with implementation of the rules.

C.A description of the classes of persons who will benefit from the proposed rule:The classes of persons who will benefit are clients applying for or receiving SSP and SSI-DCP services and AFS staff.

D.A description of the probable economic impact of the proposed rule upon the affected classes of persons or political subdivisions, including a listing of all fee changes and, whenever possible, a separate justification for each fee change:The proposed amendments do not have an economic impact on the affected entities.There are no fee changes associated with the revised rules.

E.The probable costs and benefits to the Agency and to any other agency of the implementation and enforcement of the proposed rule, the source of revenue to be used for implementation and enforcement of the proposed rule and any anticipated effect on state revenues, including a projected net loss or gain in such revenues if it can be projected by the Agency:The probable cost to DHS includes the cost of printing and distributing the rules, which is estimated to be less than $20.The proposed amendments will result in enhanced delivery of services for clients.

F.A determination whether implementation of the proposed rule will have an impact on any political subdivisions or require their cooperation in implementing or enforcing the rule:The proposed amendments do not have an economic impact on any political subdivision, nor will the cooperation of any political subdivisions be required in implementation or enforcement of the rules.

G.A determination whether implementation of the proposed rule will have an adverse economic effect on small business as provided by the Oklahoma Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Act:There are no anticipated adverse effects on small business as provided by the Oklahoma Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Act.

H.An explanation of the measures the Agency has taken to minimize compliance costs and a determination whether there are less costly or nonregulatory methods or less intrusive methods for achieving the purpose of the proposed rule:There are no less costly or non-regulatory methods or less intrusive methods for achieving the purpose of the proposed amendments.

I.A determination of the effect of the proposed rule on the public health, safety, and environment and, if the proposed rule is designed to reduce significant risks to the public health, safety, and environment, an explanation of the nature of the risk and to what extent the proposed rule will reduce the risk:Implementation of the proposed amendments are not intended to reduce risks to the public health, safety, and environment.

J.A determination of any detrimental effect on the public health, safety, and environment if the proposed rule is not implemented:If the proposed amendmentsare not implemented, no detrimental effects on public health, safety, or the environment are anticipated.

K.The date the rule impact statement was prepared and, if modified, the date modified:Prepared May 16, 2018; modified December 14, 2018.

SUBCHAPTER 1. STATE SUPPLEMENTAL PAYMENT

340:15-1-2. Definitions

Revised 7-1-049-16-19

The following words and terms, when used in this Chapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

"Countable income" means the total unearned income plus the net earned income. The net earned income is gross earned income minus the $20 general income exclusion, minus $65 work exclusion, minusand one-half of the remainder.For additional exemptions for individuals who are blind, refer to Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC)317:35317:35-5-42(d)(6), for additional exemptions.

"Disabled individual" means a person who meets the same definition, per Section 1382c(a)(3) of Title 42 of the United States Code that the Social Security Administration uses in determining eligibility for Supplemental Security Income disability benefits.

"Earned income" means income in cash earned by an individual through the receipt ofthe person receives from wages, salarysalaries, commissioncommissions, or profitprofits from activities in which he or she is engaged in, as a self-employed individual or as an employee.

"Eligible couple" means a husband and wifetwo persons married to each other who are both aged, blind, or disabled and meet the income and resource standard for a money payment, per Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) Appendix C-1, Maximum Income, Resource, and Payment Standards, Schedules VIII.A and D.

"Eligible individual" means a person who is single aged, blind, or disabled and meets the income and resource standard for a money payment, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedules VIII.A and D.

"Eligible individual with essential spouse" means an eligible individual hasliving with a spouse who is not aged, blind, or disabled but has been continuously included in the case since prior to 1974.The couple must also meet the income and resource standard, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A and D.

"Eligible individual with ineligible spouse" means an eligible individual hasliving with a spouse who is not aged, blind, or disabled and does not meet the definition of an essential spouse.The couple must also meet the income and resource standard, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A and D.

"Eligible individual with ineligible spouse and dependent child" means a married couple who meets the definition of an eligible individual andwith an ineligible spouse that have a child younger than 18 years of age with the proper degree of relationship residing in the home full-time. The couple must meet the income and resources standard, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A and D.

"Minor blind or disabled individual" means a child younger than 18 years of age, who is blind or disabled and meets the income and resource standard for a money payment, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedules VIII.C and D.

340:15-1-4. State Supplemental Payment plan (SSP)

Revised 6-1-109-16-19

The State Supplemental Payment (SSP) plan for the aged, blind, or disabled persons encompasses the requirements listed in (1) through (11) of this subsectionSection.

(1) State-wide operation.The SSP plan is a state-administered program in effect in all Oklahoma counties of Oklahoma as a state-administered program.

(2) Financing.The State of Oklahoma provides all the money for financingfunding for the SSP Program.

(3) Single-state agency.The SSP Program is administered by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) with an office in each county in the, operating under rules adopted by the Oklahoma Commission for Human Services (Commission)DHS Adult and Family Services, in county offices throughout the state.

(4) Fair hearings.An SSP applicant or recipient of SSPadversely affected by a DHS decision is provided an opportunity for a fair hearing, per Section 168 of Title 56 of the Oklahoma Statutes (56 O.S § 168).Adverse effects may include,when the applicant or recipient:

(A) the application is denied benefits or the application is not acted upon with reasonable promptnesswithin 30-calendar days for persons categorically related to Aid to the Aged, or 60-calendar days for persons categorically related to Aid to the Blind or Disabled;

(B) he or she is dissatisfieddisagrees with the approved payment amount of his or her payment; or

(C) he or she disagrees with any other action taken in regard toregarding his or her payment.

(5) Proper and efficient administration.OKDHSDHS operates under the State Merit System whichthat establishes and maintains personnel standards on a merit basis for certain state agencies, including OKDHSDHS, per 56 O.S § 26.17.Employees of OKDHS engaged in the administration of the Combined State Plan are covered by the Merit System.

(6) Safeguarding of information.In accordance with Section 183 of Title 56 of the Oklahoma StatutesPer 56 O.S § 183and Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:1-1-20 and 340:65-1-2, OKDHSDHS restricts the use of or disclosure of information concerning SSP applicants and recipients to purposes directly connected with theSSP program administration of this program.

(7) Right to apply.A person has the right to:

(A) make applicationapply for SSP and any category of assistanceother benefit he or she chooses;

(B) expect an investigation of eligibility; and

(C) expect a reasonably prompt decision in regard to his or herregarding the SSP application within 30-calendar days for persons categorically related to Aid to the Aged or 60-calendar days for persons categorically related to Aid to the Blind or Disabled.

(8) Assistance under only one program.An eligible person can have his or herperson's needs may be included in only one cash assistance benefit, either SSP or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefit.

(9) Standards for determining eligibility and payment amount of payment.Uniform policies for determination of eligibility and the amount of payment are provided inRefer to OAC 340 Chapters 15 and 65 for SSP eligibility determination rules and OKDHSDHS Appendix C-1, Maximum Income, Resource, and Payment Standards for SSP payment amounts.

(A) SSP standards are based on the mandatory "Pass-Along Provision" of Section 1618 of the Social Security Act which(Section 1382g of Title 42 of the United States Code) that requires states to pass along cost of living adjustments (COLA) in Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.The Commission approves adjustments inDHS adjusts individual paymentspayment amounts during the calendar year, as needed, to maintain total SSP expenditures for SSP in a calendar year at the same level as the total expenditures for SSP in the previous year.

(B) Maximum income and resource standards for persons who are aged, blind, or disabled are based on the federal benefit rates (FBR) shown on OKDHSDHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.

(i) Countable income for SSP must be less than 100%percent of the FBR, plus the maximum SSP amount.

(ii) Countable income must be equal to, or less than 300%percent of the FBR for certain persons who, since December, 1973:

(I) were approved for care and continuously living in a licensed Title XIX nursing care facility, intermediate care facility (ICF), or ICF for the mentally retarded (ICF/MR)individuals with intellectual disabilities (ICF-IID);

(II) have continuously received Home and Community‑Based Waiver Services for the Mentally Retardedintellectually disabled; or

(III) were patients 65 oryears of age and older and have continuously resided in a mental hospital.

(iii) Countable income for deeming income to a minor child who is blind or disabled must be less than 100%percent of the FBR.

(iv) Maximum resources must be equal to, or less than 100%percent, of the SSI resource standards.

(10) Income and resources.The purpose of the SSP purpose is to supplement a person's income the person is receiving.¢1OKDHSDHS, in determining need for an aged, blind, or disabled person, takes into consideration anyconsiders the person's available income and resources, of the person in accordance with rules atper OAC 317:35-5-41 and 317:35-5-42, and federal and state law.

(A) To determine income eligibility at application, the worker calculates the person's actual earned and unearned income received or expected to be received during the application month and compares it to the maximum income standard, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A.

(B) When the person receives SSI, the worker only verifies changes in income and resources that occurred since the Social Security Administration (SSA) verified the person's income and resources:¢2

(i) at SSI approval;

(ii) at the most recent SSI review; or

(iii) when questionable information is received indicating the person has income or resources not considered by SSA.

(C)In accordance with Section 15 of Title 7 of the Oklahoma Statutes, theThe first $500 of monthly earned income is disregarded for blind persons in addition to the usual earned income disregards described at OAC 317:35-5-42(d)(1), per 7 O.S. § 15.

(11) Civil rights.The SSP Program is administered in accordance with the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340:15-1-4

Issued 6-1-109-16-19

1.A person is not eligible for a State Supplemental Payment (SSP) when he or she:

(1) has no income; or

(2) is ineligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for a reason other than income.See OACRefer to Oklahoma Administrative Code 340:15-1-5 Instructions to Staff # 1 for examples.

2.When a person applies or renews eligibility for SSP, the worker documents the income and resources reported by the applicant in the Family Assistance/Client Services case notes.The worker gives or sends Form 08AD092E, Client Contact and Information Request, to the client, to request income and resource verification, when the:

(1) client's reported income is not reflected on the SDX screen or the amount shown on SDX is less than the income reported to the worker;

(2) client reports resources acquired since the most recent SSI review or that appears to be above the resource standard, per Oklahoma Department of Human Services Appendix C-1, Maximum Income, Resource, and Payment Standards, Schedule VIII.D; or

(3) worker receives information indicating the client has unreported income or resources.

340:15-1-5. State Supplemental Payment (SSP)

Revised 7-1-049-16-19

(a) Eligibility for payment.AnPer Section 164 of Title 56 of the Oklahoma Statutes (O.S. 56 § 164), an individual is eligible for a State Supplemental Payment (SSP) ifwhen he or she is, or would be, eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) because of age or disability,andis not ineligible per (b) of this Section, meets all other conditions of eligibility;:¢1

(1) is not a resident of a public facility operated by an entity of government, such as any correctional, mental health, nursing care, or juvenile facility;

(2) is not a long term, over 30 days, patient in a psychiatric facility or a psychiatric unit of an acute care hospital;

(3) has countable income, including SSI, that is less than the SSP need standard on Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS)(DHS) Appendix C-1, Maximum Income, Resource, and Payment Standards, Schedule VIII.A;¢1

(4)(2) was, and remains, approved for care in a licensed Title XIX nursing care facility since December, 1973, and retains eligibility for a mandatory SSP.See OKDHSRefer to Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.B., for the mandatory supplement standard;

(5) is not a child in OKDHS custody for whom out-of-home care is paid by OKDHS;

(6)(3) is a resident in the Oklahoma School for the Blind or the Oklahoma School for the Deaf and meets all other eligibility requirements;

(7)(4) is ineligible for SSI based on income; but has income less than the SSP maximum, and meets all other conditions of eligibilityper DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A; or

(5) meets resource standards, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule D;orand

(8)(6) takes all appropriate steps to obtain other benefits within 30-calendar days after he or she is notified of his or her potential eligibility.

(b) Ineligible for payment.An individual is not eligible for SSP when he or she:¢1

(1) is a resident of a public facility operated by a government entity, such as a correctional, mental health, nursing care, or juvenile facility;

(2) is a patient in a psychiatric facility or a psychiatric unit of an acute care hospital for more than 30-calendar days;

(3) has countable income in excess of the SSP need standard, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A;

(4) has countable resources in excess of the SSP resource standard, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.D;

(5) does not receive SSI because the applicant or the spouse disposed of resources for less than fair market value within 36 months of the application date, per Section 1382b(c) of Title 42 of the United States Code; ¢2

(6) is not an Oklahoma resident;

(7) does not meet citizenship or alien status requirements, per Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 317:35-5-25 and O.S. 71 § 56;

(8) does not take all appropriate steps to obtain other benefits with 30-calendar days after being notified of his or her potential eligibility; or

(9) is a child in DHS custody placed in out-of-home care that is paid for by DHS.

(b)(c) Amount ofSSP payment amount.The SSP payment amount of SSP is based uponvaries depending on the amount of other income the individual(s) receives.The maximum payment cannotmust not exceed the maximum payment shown on OKDHSDHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A. for an individual.Payment canmay be authorized retroactively based on an appeal decision or to correct an administrative error.Payment cannotmay not be authorized retroactively based onwhen the client failurefails to timely report information affecting eligibility.Refer to OAC 340:65-3-6 for payment methods and issuance dates.

(1) Eligible couple.Income eligibility is determined by comparing the couple's total countable income of the couple with the SSP standard for an eligible couple.When the couple's income is:

(A) If the amount of countable income is equal to or greater than the standard, the worker denies the application is denied or closes the case is closedSSP benefit.; or

(B) If the amount of countable income is less than the standard, the total countableworker deducts the couple's income of the couple is deducted from the standard to compute the payment amount.The SSP for each member of the couple is one-half of the remainder.IfWhen the SSP cannot be divided equally so that each member of the couple receives the same amount, one member of the couple receives a higher SSP, subject to the maximum payment shown on OKDHSDHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A.

(2) Eligible individual.IncomeThe worker determines an individual's income eligibility is determined by comparing thehis or her total countable income of the individual with the SSP standard for an eligible individual.When the individual's countable income is:

(A) If the amount of countable income is equal to or greater than the SSP standard, the worker denies the application is denied or closes the case is closedSSP benefit.; or

(B) If the amount of countable income is less than the SSP standard, the worker deducts the individual's total countable income of the individual is deducted from the standard to compute the payment amount, subject to the maximum payment shown on OKDHSDHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A.

(3) Eligible individual with essential spouse.IncomeThe worker determines the income eligibility is determinedfor an individual with an essential spouse by comparing the total countable income of the individual and spousecouple with the SSP standard for the eligible individual with an essential or ineligible spouse.When the couple's countable income is:

(A) If the amount of countable income is equal to or greater than the standard, the worker denies the application is denied or closes the case is closedSSP benefit.; or

(B) If the amount of countable income is less than the standard, the worker deducts the couple's total countable income of the individual and spouse is deducted from the standard to compute the payment amount, subject to the maximum payment,shown on OKDHSper DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A.

(4) Eligible individual with ineligible spouse.IncomeThe worker determines income eligibility is determinedfor an individual with an ineligible spouse by comparing the total countable income of the individual with the SSP standard for the eligible individual.When the individual's countable income is:

(A) If the amount of countable income is equal to or greater than the SSP standard for the eligible individual, the worker denies the application is denied or closes the case is closedSSP benefit.; or

(B) If the amount of countable income is less than the SSP standard for the individual, the worker compares the total countable income of the individual and the spouse is comparedcouple with the SSP standard for an eligible individual with an essential or ineligible spouse.When the couple's total countable income is:

(i) If the amount of countable income is equal to or greater than the standard, the worker denies the application is denied or closes the case is closedSSP benefit.; or

(ii) If the amount of countable income is less than the standard, the worker deducts the total countable income of the individual and spouse is deductedcouple from the SSP standard for an eligible individual with an essential or ineligible spouse to compute the payment amount, subject to the maximum payment,shown on OKDHSper DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A.Use the standard for the eligible individual whenException: When the ineligible spouse is included in a Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefit, the worker deducts the individual's countable income from the SSP standard for the eligible individual and does not consider the spouse's income.

(5) Eligible individual with ineligible spouse and dependent child.IncomeThe worker determines income eligibility is determinedfor an individual with an ineligible spouse and dependent child by comparing the individual's total countable income of the individual with the SSP standard for thean eligible individual.

(A) IfWhen the individual's countable income is equal to or greater than the standard, the worker denies the application is denied or closes the case is closedSSP benefit.

(B) IfWhen the individual's countable income is less than the SSP standard for an eligible individual, the worker determines the spouse's countable income is determined by following (i) through (iv)(v) of this paragraph.

(i) IfWhen the spouse and dependent child are included in a TANF benefit, their income is considered onfor the TANF casebenefit and none is deemed to the eligible individual.The worker deducts the individual's total countable income of the individual is deducted from the SSP standard to compute the SSP benefit amount, subject to the maximum payment,shown on OKDHSper DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A.

(ii) IfWhen the spouse's needs are not included in the TANF case forbenefit with the child, the portion of the spouse's income that is considered in determining the child's TANF benefit for the child is not considered infor the SSP casebenefit.

(iii)IfWhen the dependent child isdoes not receivingreceive TANF, the worker deducts the child's allocation, minus the child's income, is deducted from the spouse's income to determinebefore determining the amount of the spouse's income to be considered on theconsider for the SSP casebenefit.See OKDHSRefer to DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.C for the child's allocation amount.

(iv) The individual's total countable income and the spouse's countable income after subtracting the amount considered for the dependent child, is compared with the SSP standard for an eligible individual with an essential or ineligible spouse, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A.When the countable income is:

(I) equal to or greater than the SSP standard, the worker denies the application or closes the SSP benefit; or

(II) less than the SSP standard, the worker deducts the countable income from the standard to compute the payment amount, subject to the maximum payment, per DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A.

(iv)(v)Income of a childThe dependent child's income is never deemed to the adult.

(C) The total countable income of the individual and the spouse is compared with the SSP standard for an eligible individual with an essential or ineligible spouse.

(i) If the amount of countable income is equal to or greater than the standard, the application is denied or the case is closed.

(ii) If the amount of countable income is less than the standard, the countable income is deducted from the standard to compute the payment amount, subject to the maximum payment shown on OKDHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A.

(6) Minor who is blind or disabled. IncomeThe worker determines a minor's income eligibility is determined by adding the child's own income to the amount deemed from the child's parents and comparingcompares the total to the SSP standard for an eligible individual.¢ 23When the countable income is:

(A) If the amount of countable income is equal to or greater than the standard, the worker denies the application is denied or closes the case is closedSSP benefit.; or

(B) If the amount of countable income is less than the standard, the worker deducts the total countable income is deducted from the SSP standard to compute the payment amount, subject to the maximum payment,shown on OKDHSper DHS Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.A.

(c)(d)Concurrent receipt of more than one form ofcash assistance payment.No person who isAn individual must not be included in amore than one SSP may be included for the same period in another SSP or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefit for the same time period.

(1)A person who isAn individual meeting SSP eligibility requirements may receive SSP and be the payee for a TANF benefit, but whosewhen his or her needs are not included, is not precluded from being a recipient of a SSP if he or she meets eligibility requirementsin the TANF cash assistance.

(2) When a TANF recipient of TANF or SSP is transferred to another categoryfrom TANF to SSP or an SSP recipient is transferred from Aid to the Disabled to Aid to the Aged or Blind, the effective date must be the same for the removal from one category and the beginning of payment from the other category.

(e) Application and renewal processing.Refer to OAC 340:65-3-1 for application processing rules and OAC 340:65-3-8 for renewal processing rules.

INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340:15-1-5

Revised 6-1-109-16-19

1.Examples of persons whose countable income and resources are below the State Supplemental Payment (SSP) standard, but who are not eligible for SSP include:

(1) aliens who are lawful, permanent residents but are ineligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) because they have resided in the United States for less than seven years; and

(2) persons who are age 65 oryears of age and older but have no income.TheyWhen they do not receive SSI or Social Security benefits, they must apply for and, be approved for SSI through the Social Security Administration, before the worker approves SSP.

2.When SSI is denied because of a resource transfer, the SDX screen shows an N04 denial code.

23.The worker uses the CID transaction that is available on the information management systemInformation Management System (IMS) for computingto compute the income amount to be deemed from the parent(s) and the spouse of the parent to an eligible disabled or blind minor child.

340:15-1-6. Special requirements

Revised 6-1-099-16-19

(a) Solicitation of alms.Per Section 164 of Title 56 of the Oklahoma Statutes,provides that a recipient of a State Supplemental Payment (SSP) for the blind shallmust not, during the period ofsolicit alms while receiving assistance, solicit almsSSP.Soliciting alms means collecting donations for one's personal benefit, selling minor articles when selling is merely a subterfuge for collecting donations, and any similar activities.It does not include house-to-house sale of articles carried on as a regular established occupation.The client's statement regarding solicitation of alms is sufficient verification ifwhen there are no facts to the contrary.

(b) Minor child who is blind or disabled.In determiningTo determine SSP eligibility offor a child who is blind or disabled, the income and resources of the parent(s) with whom the child is living are considered unless the parent(s) is included in a SSP or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) application or benefit.

(1) Deeming of income.Income of aA natural or adoptive parent(s)parent(s)', or step-parent and own parentstep-parent's income must be deemed to a minor child, who is blind or disabled,child who is under ageand younger than 18 years of age, when determining the child's eligibility for a SSP.Income of anAn ineligible childchild's income is not deemed to the blind or disabled child.The parent(s)' income is not deemed if anwhen the eligible child is residingresides in a nursing care facility.

(2) Deeming of resources.For eachWhen a minor child, who is blind or disabled and under age 18 livinglives with his or her parent(s) whose needs are not included in TANF benefit, or receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or SSP, the parent(s)' resources which exceed the maximum amount allowablein excess of the resource standard, per Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) Appendix C-1, Schedule VIII.D, are deemed available to the child who is disabledunless the parent(s) receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI), SSP, or is included in a TANF cash assistance payment or the child resides in a nursing care facility.IfWhen there is more than one eligible child in the home, the parent(s)' excess resource amount is prorated between the eligible children.If the minor child who is blind or disabled resides in a nursing care facility, the parent(s)' resources are not deemed to the child.¢1

(3) ExceptionsWhen the child is ineligible for SSP.AWhen a child who has mental retardation lives in his or her parent(s)' home andwith intellectual disabilities is ineligible for SSP due to the deeming processhis or her parent(s)' income and/or resources, the child may be approved for SoonerCare (Medicaid) benefits under the Home and Community-Based Waiver (HCBW) Services for the Mentally RetardedProgram as outlined inpersons with intellectual disabilities, per Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 317:35-9.When the child is not eligible for HCBW, the child may be eligible for SoonerCare (Medicaid) benefits under the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 (Public Law 97-248), known as TEFRA, per OAC 317:35-5-4 and 317:35-7-36.

(A) The child who is determined eligible under this provision by not deeming the parent(s)' income and resources is not eligible to receive a SSP.

(B) When both parents are in the home and one parent is included in a SSP case and the spouse is included in a TANF benefit with the child, the resources of both parents are evaluated in relation to eligibility for SSI and/or SSP and are not considered on the TANF case.

(C) All resources of the parent(s) are shown on the SSP case.

(c) Age.

(1) AgeSSP age requirement for the aged.To be eligible for SSP for the aged, theAn individual must be 65 years of age orand older asto meet the age requirement for SSP for the aged.Eligibility is verified by the Social Security Administration, or by other sources of verificationrecords, such as a birth certificate, insurance policies, family records, or census records.

(2) AgeSSP age requirement for the blind.There is no age requirement for ato receive SSP for the blind.The age ofWhen a child, who is blind is younger than 16 years of age, his or her age must be verified in order to establish the need for designating a parent or guardian as payee if the child is younger than 16.When a recipient of areceiving SSP for the blind reaches age 65 years of age, he or she is transferred to the category for the aged.

(3) AgeSSP age requirement for the disabled.To be eligible for a SSP for the disabled, an applicant or recipient must be younger than 65 years of age.A parent or guardian must be designated as payee ifwhen a child who is disabled is younger than 16 years of age.When a recipient of areceiving SSP for the disabled reaches age 65 years of age, he or she is transferred to the category for the aged.

(d) Fleeing felon.A fleeing felon is not eligible for a SSP.APer Section 1382(e)(4) of Title 42 of the United States Code, a fleeing felon is defined as a person who:

(1) is fleeing to avoid prosecution, custody, or confinement, after conviction under the laws of the place from which the person flees, for a crime, or an attempt to commit a crime, which is a felony under the laws of the place from which the person flees, or in a jurisdictions that do not define crimes as felonies, is punishable by death or imprisonment for a term exceeding one year regardless of the actual sentence imposed;

(2) is violating a condition of probation or parole imposed under federal or state law; or

(3) has lost SSI benefits due to being a fleeing felon.

(e) Overpayments.A client may incur an SSP overpayment in any SSP Program for any month in which he or she receives a SSP after SSI benefits are terminatedclose and the client's income is above the SSP standard, per DHS Appendix C-1 or the client received a larger SSP than he or she was eligible to receive.¢ 1The worker documents and computes the overpayment amount whichthat includes any premiums for Health Insurance Benefits (HIB) paid by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) on behalf of an ineligible client in accordance with rules atand sends the overpayment referral to Adult and Family Services Benefit Integrity and Recovery for establishment and collection, per OAC 340:65-9.

INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340:15-1-6

Issued 6-1-099-16-19

1.The worker documents the parent(s)' resources in Family Assistance/Client Services (FACS) case notes and how much of the resources, if any, are deemed to the child.The worker only enters the resources deemed to the child in the 'resource amount' and 'resource indicator' fields of the FACS Interview Notebook Resource tab.

12.When Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is terminatedcloses because the client receives additional income, such as Retirement, Survivor's and Disability Insurance (RSDI) or Veteran's Administration (VA) benefits but his or her income is stillremains below the SSPState Supplemental Payment standard, no overpayment is incurred.

3.The overpayment amount calculated for premiums paid by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority is the monthly buy-in cost shown on the PY screen under the BIL prefix.

SUBCHAPTER 3. SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME-DISABLED CHILDREN'S PROGRAM

340:15-3-1. Eligibility and available services

Issued 9-15-159-16-19

(a) Supplemental Security Income-Disabled Children's Program (SSI-DCP).SSI-DCP is established, per SectionSections 504 and 1615 of the Social Security Act and administered by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) Adult and Family Services (AFS).The Social Security Administration (SSA) refers children younger than 18 years of age, approved for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to DHS for SSI-DCP services and, to apply for the State Supplemental Payment (SSP).

(1) Due to limited funding, requested SSI-DCP services are pre-approved by AFS Health Related and Medical Services (HR&MS) staff.

(2) AFS HR&MS staff considers many factors in deciding which services or equipment to approve including, but not limited to:

(A) the child's needs;

(B) the availability of other resources;

(C) whether the child is in a stable or temporary living situation;

(D) the cost of the service or equipment; and

(E) the availability of funding.

(b) Eligibility.Any child from birth to 18 years of age ismay be eligible for SSI-DCP services when the child receives a SSI payment.SSA establishes financial and medical eligibility for the SSI disability payment.When the child becomes 18 years of age, he or she is no longer eligible for SSI-DCP services.A child receiving SSI is not automatically eligible for SSP.¢ 1

(c) Child in DHS custody.When a child is in DHS custody and the child's SSI is retained by DHS, the child's SSI is used to pay for needed services and equipment prior to accessing SSI-DCP funds.¢ 2

(c)(d)Service plan.The AFS worker completes a service plan prior to providing SSI-DCP services to the child, unless the child has a current service plan with another program within DHS or another agency.

(1) The AFS worker makes a scheduled home visit, per Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) 340:65-3-4(1) to complete Form 08MA017E, SSI-DCP Service Plan, with the child's parent, guardian, or caretaker.The service plan is reviewed yearly.When the child receives SSP, the AFS worker completes Form 08MA017E in conjunction with the eligibility review renewal.¢ 23

(2) When the child receives services from another agency that requires a current social service plan, such as early intervention services through SoonerStart or special education services through the local public school, the SSI-DCP service plan is not necessary.¢ 34

(3) Within DHS, the child may receive services from Child Welfare Services (CWS), Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS), or Aging Services for State Plan Personal Care.When applicable, the AFS worker collaborates with CWS or DDS to:

(A) address the child's current and future social service needs; and

(B) avoid duplication in providing services.¢ 45

(d)(e) Services.SSI-DCP provides funding for the services described in (1) through (3)and (2) of this subsection.The parent, guardian, or caretaker requests services through the AFS worker in the county office and provides a prescription or written recommendation from an education or healthcare professional.The prescription or written recommendation is provided yearly at the time of the annual renewal.¢ 56

(1) Diapers.To be eligible to receive diapers, the child is at least 4 years of age.Once the child turns 18 years of age, he or she is not eligible for diapers.Prior to approval, a health care professional documents in writing that the child cannot be toilet trained.When approved by AFS HR&MS staff, authorized county staff orders available diapers through the DHS Supply Warehouse.Only diapers available through the DHS Supply Warehouse are approved.¢ 6

(2) Formula.A health care professional provides a prescription naming the brand of formula needed by the child.When approved by AFS HR&MS, authorized county staff orders available formula through the DHS Supply Warehouse.Only formula available through the DHS Supply Warehouse is approved.¢ 7

(3)(2) Interaction and integration services.Non-medical services aimed at strengthening the child physically or mentally; providing opportunities for social interaction; or assisting with mobility may be approved when recommended by an education or health care professional and the recommendation clearly defines the goals and objectives for the child.Examples of such services include, but are not limited to, swimming or horseback riding lessons, sports activities, or a health club membership.Due to budget constraints, services are approved on a temporary basis.¢ 8

(e)(f) Equipment.Equipment approved through SSI-DCP is used to aid the child in accessibility or mobility.Equipment available through SSI-DCP is pre-approved by AFS HR&MS Section staff.Available equipment that may be approved is described in (1) and (2) of this subsection.The parent, guardian, or caretaker provides a written recommendation from an education or health care professional with knowledge concerning the child's equipment needs.HR&MS Section staff does not approve requests for equipment the child can obtain through other sources, such as SoonerCare (Medicaid) or through the child's school.¢ 9

(1) Developmental aid.A developmental aid is any device or equipment adapted to meet the needs of a child with disabilities.An education or healthcare professional provides a written explanation concerning the goals and objectives this developmental aid meets before it is approved.Educational or classroom devices, equipment, or supplies not adapted for the child's needs are not in the scope of the program.

(2) Van lifts.Van lifts are devices used for vehicular transportation of wheelchairs.Van lifts may be approved when needed to transport a child in a wheelchair.A van lift is not approved for a child in DHS or tribal custody or in the Developmental Disabilities Home and Community-Based Waiver Program.Modifications to the van are not approved.

(A) The parent, guardian, or caretaker must own the van as verified by title registration and license verification and the van must be in operating condition.

(B) The family provides estimates from two van lift dealers who employ certified van lift installation technicians.¢ 10

(C) When the request is approved, HR&MS staff contacts the family and approved vendor to arrange installation of the van lift.

(D) Only a certified van lift specialist is approved to install the lift and the lift must have factory and dealership warrantywarranties equal to the private purchase warranty.

(E) HR&MS staff does not approve replacement of a van lift within 10 years of the purchase date.

(F) SSI-DCP staff does not pay for repairs of vans or van lifts not purchased with SSI-DCP funds.

(f)(g) Exclusions.Items or supplies not in the scope of SSI-DCP are not approved.Examples of excluded items or supplies include, but are not limited to:

(1) learning programs;

(2) psychological programs;

(3) books;

(4) video or audio tapes;

(5) paper, pencils, or art supplies;

(6) computers, tablet computers, or computer software;

(7) televisions; and

(8) video games.

(g)(h) Purchasing procedures.SSI-DCP orders are processed through AFS HR&MS.Purchased equipment is shipped to the local county office.¢ 11

(h)(i) SSI-DCP notices.When a SSI-DCP request is denied, the AFS workerHR&MS staff sends a hand-generated denial notice using Form 08MA004E08MP038E, Notification of Eligibility Status for Medical AssistanceClient Notice of Action Taken, to inform the child's parent, guardian, or caretaker the item is not approved for purchase through SSI-DCP funding.¢ 12The family may request a fair hearing by completing Form 13MP001E, Request for a Fair Hearing, within 30-calendar days from the issuance date of the notice by completing Form 13MP001E, Request for a Fair HearingForm 08MP038E.¢ 13

(i)(j) Respite Voucher Program.The Respite Voucher Program provides financial assistance in the form of vouchers to families to pay for respite care.When the family appears eligible for the Respite Voucher Program, the worker gives the client Form 08RV001E, Respite Voucher Application for Children With Special Health Care Needs, to complete.¢ 14When funding is not available through HR&MS, the worker advises the family to call a designated number to request a respite voucher application from Sooner SUCCESS for the Lifespan Respite Grant Voucher Program.¢ 15The SSI-SSI-DCP, other DHS programs, and certain public and private agencies provide funding to the Respite Voucher Program.¢ 14

(1) The caregiver is the person who provides ongoing care for the child.He or she may be a parent, grandparent, other relative, or non-relative.

(2) When respite care is approved itthe respite provider must be at least 18 years of age.Respite care is not:¢ 15

(A) designed to pay for ongoing care, such as child care, therapy, in-home assistance, housekeeping, or home health services; and

(B)provided by a member of the child's household.

INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF 340:15-3-1

Issued 9-15-159-16-19

1.(a) A child receiving disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or the Veterans Administration (VA), must receive at least one dollar of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to be eligible for the Supplemental Security Income-Disabled Children's Program (SSI-DCP).

(b) To determine if the child is receivingreceives SSI, the Adult and Family Services (AFS) worker uses the Information Management System (IMS) transaction PY space Social Security number (SSN).

2.The AFS worker does not enter SSI-DCP authorizations for Child Welfare Services (CWS) staff.

(1) When CWS staff requests SSI-DCP services for the child from AFS, the AFS worker images the CWS service plan and emails AFS Health Related & Medical Services (HR&MS) staff for instructions.

(2) When the child receives CWS services and the SSI payment is retained by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS), DHS is listed as the payee on the SDX screen.When DHS retains the child's SSI, the child's equipment and service needs are normally met using the child's SSI payment or CWS funding.

(3) When the child's SSI payment is not retained by DHS, HR&MS staff may approve SSI-DCP funds be used for the child in certain circumstances.When approved, CWS staff completes the SSI-DCP authorization.

23.(a) When no other social service program is involved, the AFS worker offers social services to the child's parent, guardian, or caretaker for the child.

(1) The worker interviews the parent, guardian, or caretaker during a home visit to assess the child, evaluate the child's medical, developmental, social, educational, and rehabilitationneeds and documents social service needs by completing Form 08MA017E, SSI-DCP Service Plan.Form 08MA017E is available in the Family Assistance/Client Services (FACS) system.The worker images and files the completed form in the case record.

(2) To approve the child for SSI-DCP, the worker certifies the Social Services tab in the FACS Eligibility Notebook and adds the child to "social services" in the "benefit" field of the Household tab in the FACS Interview Notebook.

(3) The worker also documents case actions in FACS Case Notes.

(b) At the annual renewal, the Adult and Family Services (AFS) worker makes a visit tovisits the child's home and updates the social service plan on Form 08MA017E to reflect changes or new requests.

34.(a) SoonerStart is an early intervention program within the Oklahoma State Department of Health that provides services for children with disabilities or developmental delays, from birth to 3 years of age with disabilities or developmental delays.SoonerStart staff and the parent, guardian, or caretaker complete an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) to address the child's needs.

(b) Local public school staff and the parent, guardian, or caretaker complete an Individualized Education Program (IEP) social service plan for children requiring special education and related services, who are 3 years of age and older requiring special education and related services.

(c) The AFS worker images the alternate plan and makes a notation in FACS case notes.IfWhen the alternate plan is not available, the AFS worker and the parent, guardian, or caretaker complete Form 08MA017E.

45.When the child receives Child Welfare Services (CWS) or Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) services, the child's equipment and service needs are normally met using CWS or DDS funding.In the event SSI-DCP services are requested for the child, the AFS worker images the CWS or DDS service plan and emails AFS Health Related & Medical Services (HR&MS) staff for instructions.

56.(a) The worker images and files the written recommendation in the case record and documents the content of the recommendation in FACS case notes.

6.(a) Authorized county staff is responsible for ordering diapers on the Financial Services AS400 system consumable supply screen.An authorization is completed on the AUSN-D screen listing the size and number of needed diapers.

(b) Effective July 1, 2015,SoonerCare (Medicaid)the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) provides diapers and other medically-necessary incontinent supplies under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) program through a contract with People First Industries (PFI).The worker only requests diapers through SSI-DCP when SoonerCare (Medicaid) denies the request and the parent, guardian, or caretaker provides a copy of the authorization denial and a letter from the child's physician explaining the child's condition.The worker images and files the authorization denial and physician letter in the child's case record.HR&MS staff evaluates these requests on a case-by-case basis.Incontinent supplies include diapers, pull-ons, liners, underpads, and wipes.

(1) When a child who is at least 4 years of age requires medically-necessary incontinent supplies, the child's parent, guardian, or caretaker may obtain the supplies through PFI.

(2) The worker advises the child's parent, guardian, or caretaker to take OHCA's Form HCA-52, Physician's Order for Incontinent Supplies, to the child's doctor to complete.Once the doctor completes the form, he or she emails or faxes the form to PFI at the email address or fax number located on the form.In case of questions, PFI's phone number is 580-924-8509 or toll-free at 866-895-9956.

(3) After receiving Form HCA-52, PFI staff contacts the parent, guardian, or caretaker to obtain sizing information and to confirm the family's address for shipping.

(4) PFI sends the information to OHCA for approval.Once approved, PFI ships the supplies to the family's address.

(c) The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) Supply Warehouse stores and distributes diapers as requested to local county offices.

(d) The AFS worker is responsible for ensuring the client receives the diapers.

7.(a) Authorized county staff is responsible for ordering formula on the DHS Financial Services AS400 system consumable supply screen.An authorization is completed on the AUSN-F screen listing the brand and amount of formula needed.

(b) The DHS Supply Warehouse stocks and distributes formula as requested to the local county office.

(c) The AFS worker is responsible for ensuring the client receives the formula.

8.Authorized county staff requests services on the AUSN-P screen.

9.(a) The imaged recommendation lists the:

(1) item name and number;

(2) vendor name, address, and phone number;

(3) item cost; and

(4) objectives and goals to be achieved through use of the equipment.

(b) The AFS worker inputs the request on the AUSN-E screen.

(1) The AFS worker contacts HR&MS staff prior to entering requests over $1,000 on the AUSN-E screen.

(2) To determine if the request has beenis approved, the worker checks the AUSN screen under the HRS-APR column and looks for an 'A' for approval.

(3) Returned requests have an 'R' under the HRS-APR column along with the reason documented in the description area.In addition, HR&MS staff sends an email toalso emails the worker.

10.The AFS worker images and files the two estimates in the case record and inputs the van lift request on the AUSN-E screen to request approval.AFS HR&MS staff inputs the approval or denial on the AUSN-E screen.

11. (a) Orders are shipped to the local county office unless otherwise specified.Heavier equipment items may be shipped directly to the child's home.

(1) The AFS worker ensures items shipped to the home were received intact without damage.The AFS worker callsby phoning or makesmaking a home visit to confirm the receipt and condition and documents the contact in FACS case notesof the item(s).When the family reports damage, the AFS worker contacts HR&MS Section staff for instructions.The worker documents the contact in FACS case notes.

(2) When the equipment is shipped to the local county office, the worker is responsible for checking the shipment for accuracy and condition.

(3) The worker updates the AUSN-E screen under the CO DATE field to input the date the equipment was received.

(b) Local county staff pays for SSI-DCP equipment within 45-calendar days of equipment receipt to avoid interest charges being assessed by the vendor for a late payment.Delayed payment by county staff creates a problem for current or future orders because vendors hold orders until all late payments are received.

(c) Local AFS county staff ensures delivery of all SSI-DCP items to the child.

12. AFS HR&MS staff notes SSI-DCP request denials on the AUSN screen:

(1) in the description area for equipment; or

(2) by entering an 'N' for 'not approved' under the HRS APR column for diapers and formula.

13.When AFS HR&MS staff denies a request for services or equipment and the family requests an appeal, the AFS worker ensures the family receives Form 12MP001E, Request for a Fair Hearing.

14.(a) Caregivers may request a respite voucher application by calling toll-free 1-888-771-4550 or 271-4550, in the Oklahoma City metro area.Limited respite funds are available through HR&MS.

(b) Refer to the Sooner Success website at http://oasis.ouhsc.edu/voucher.htm under the Respite tab for the Respite Voucher Program eligibility guidelines and approval process.

(c) When the family meets the qualifications for the Respite Voucher Program, an application is mailed to the family.

15.(a) After the caregiver returns the application and it is approvedHR&MS staff approves the application, DHS Financial Services staff sends the voucher is sent to the caregiver and may be used to purchase respite care.When respite care is not approved, HR&MS staff sends the client Form 08MP038E, Client Notice of Action Taken, to deny the application and refer the client to SoonerSUCCESS.

(b) The respite provider must be 18 years of age or older.

(c) The child's caregiver and the respite provider complete the respite voucher and send it to DHS Financial Services for payment.

(d)(c) Respite vouchers areexpire when not used within three months90-calendar days of the issue date.When a voucher expires because respite care was not provided within 90-calendar days, the caregiver calls 1-888-771-4550 toll free or 271-4550 in the Oklahoma City metro area to request another vouchermust call 405-521-3679 to reapply.

15.(a) Caregivers may request a respite voucher application by phoning toll-free 1-877-441-0434 or 271-5700, extension 47801, in the Oklahoma City metro area.

(b) Refer to the Sooner Success website at http://soonersuccess.ouhsc.edu/ and click on Respite under the Services and Programs tab.Respite information and eligibility guidelines are located under the Respite tab.

(c) When the family meets the qualifications for the Respite Voucher Program, an application is mailed to the family.