0105.000.00 APPLICATION PROCESSING (Excluding Food Stamps, Family MO HealthNet programs and Childcare)

This section applies to all programs except Food Stamps, Family MO HealthNet programs and Childcare.

The following are links to manual sections for the stated Income Maintenance programs:

• Food Stamps -1120.000.00 APPLICATION PROCESS
• Family MO HealthNet (MAGI) - 1802.000.00 Applications.
• Childcare -  1220.000.00 Processing Requests for Services

It is the right of any individual to apply for assistance, including individuals who are clearly ineligible. Each applicant must complete a written application to apply. Applicants have the right to appeal any decision made regarding their application.

IN ORDER TO GUARANTEE THESE RIGHTS TO ALL APPLICANTS, EACH PERSON REQUESTING ASSISTANCE IN A FAMILY SUPPORT DIVISION (FSD) OFFICE WILL BE ASKED TO SIGN AN APPLICATION.

Ensure the individual understands that a completed application is required:

1. at the time of initial application for Cash or MO HealthNet benefits.
2. upon re-application.

NOTE: A signed application is not required to move from one MO HealthNet program to another MO HealthNet only program.  However, a signed application is required to move from a MO HealthNet only program to a Cash assistance program, such as Blind Pension, Supplemental Aid to the Blind, or Supplemental Nursing Care

0105.005.00 REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE

1. Request In Person: Allow the claimant to apply.
2. Request By Mail or By Telephone:  If a request for application is received by mail or telephone, record the name and address of the person and the date of request, and the claimant's name and address.

NOTE:  The application is not complete until the application form is signed by the claimant or authorized representative, and received by the Family Support Division (FSD). .  Refer to 0105.010.00 SIGNING THE APPLICATION

For Temporary Assistance, schedule an interview within one week to complete the application and collect needed information.  Hold REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE on file for 30 days pending a signed application.  If a signed application is not received within 30 days, the request is no longer valid.  Hold invalid requests for 90 days. At that time they may be destroyed.

For MO HealthNet and Adult Cash Assistance programs, mail an application to the claimant no later than the next working day unless the request is for a home visit.  Inform the applicant that they may return the application by mail.  For the aged, blind and disabled programs, mail the IM-1MA. 

3. Request for Application in the Home:  If a request is received and the person is unable to file an application electronically, by mail, or in person , make arrangements for a home visit.  The home visit should be completed within one week, if possible.  The application date is the day the request is made.

   NOTE:  A Temporary Assistance application cannot be completed by mail.

4. Request Received Through Third Party:  When a request for assistance is made through a third party (i.e., relative, hospital, agency):
   • If the applicant is aware of the request, follow the request by mail or telephone procedures.
   • If the prospective applicant is not aware of the request, ask the referring person for the address and telephone number of the prospective applicant, and follow the request by mail or telephone procedures.
   • For Temporary Assistance, telephone the prospective applicant to determine if they wish to apply, schedule an interview to verify the information and obtain their signature.
   • For Adult Medicaid and cash programs , mail the prospective applicant an application.