0905.012.25  Non-Parent Caretaker Relative (MAF)

A non-parent caretaker relative (NPCR) is a specified relative, other than a parent, who is the caretaker of the eligible children. A caretaker is defined as a specified relative exercising primary responsibility for care and control of the eligible child.

AN NPCR FOUND TO BE NEEDY HAS THE OPTION OF BEING INCLUDED IN OR EXCLUDED FROM THE ASSISTANCE GROUP UNLESS S/HE RECEIVES SSI, SSI-SP, SP or SAB. If the NPCR is otherwise eligible and chooses to be included, complete a budget to determine eligibility. S/he may be eligible for MC+ healthcare benefits.

If the NPCR opts to be excluded, record this on the budget.

The NPCR can choose to be included in the MAF assistance group, while choosing to be excluded from the Temporary Assistance cash group.

NPCR Needy or Not Needy Determination (MAF)
IM-#96 August 26, 2005

Determine if the NPCR is needy or not needy at each application, reinvestigation, when a change in circumstances occurs that might affect the determination of being needy or not needy, and at the NPCR's request. Advise the NPCR to report all changes in the household that might affect determining whether he/she is needy or not needy.

Complete the following budget to determine if an NPCR is needy or not needy. However, when the NPCR's spouse does not live in the home or the NPCR's spouse is an SSI, SSI-SP or SAB recipient, consider the NPCR needy without completing the budget below.

If the NPCR receives SSI, SSI-SP, SP or SAB, do not complete the budget below since the NPCR's needs and income cannot be included in the MAF assistance group.

1. In preparing a budget, consider the needs and income of the NPCR, his/her spouse, and any of his/her or their children under age 18 who are household members.

   Exclude eligible children in the MAF assistance group. Use the full need standard (Temporary Assistance Consolidated Standard Expense) and do not apply the $30 plus 1/3 and $30 disregards. Allow all expenses of producing income.

   If this budget shows need, the NPCR is determined to be needy. If this budget shows no need, the NPCR is determined to be not needy.

   When the NPCR is determined to be not needy, exclude the NPCR from the MAF assistance group (both needs and income). The NPCR is not eligible for MC+ benefits.

   NOTE: If the NPCR's spouse refuses to cooperate in determining if the NPCR is needy or not needy, consider the NPCR not needy.

2. Once the above determination has been made, apply normal budgeting procedures with these provisions.

   NOTE: Include the needs and income of an NPCR, who opts to be included in the MAF assistance group, in the gross income eligibility limit (185% of need) test. Exclude an NPCR, who is excluded in the MAF assistance group, in the gross income eligibility limit test.

0905.012.30  Legal Guardian (MAF)

Include the needs and income of a legal guardian, both related and unrelated, who is the caretaker and determined to be needy, in the MAF assistance group. A needy legal guardian caretaker included in the assistance group is eligible for MC+ healthcare coverage. To determine if the legal guardian is needy or not needy, follow the procedure for NPCR.