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This topic contains information on the following subjects:
1. Requests for NPA applications and program information;
2. Inquiry Only (INQO) participants;
3. Creating new case participants;
4. Storing data obtained during an interview with the client.
When potential applicants request a CSE application and information about Non-Public Assistance (NPA) services, CSE caseworkers obtain data from them and enter it in ACTS. To store this data, caseworkers create an “Inquiry Only” participant record for the applicant so that ACTS can generate an Application For Child Support Services (DSS-4451), Cover Letter (DSS-4452), and Application Supplemental Data Sheet (DSS-4688). These documents explain the application process, the applicant’s rights and responsibilities, and certain services’ requirements.
If caseworkers suspect that the applicant might have been involved previously in the CSE program, they can search the “Inquiry Only” participant database prior to creating an “Inquiry Only” participant record. Caseworkers can also search the CSE participant database using ACTS.
For policy information about the application process, see “NPA Applications” in the Intake/Case Assignment chapter.
CSE caseworkers can create "Inquiry Only" participant records for persons who have asked about and have been sent information regarding CSE services, but who are not attached to any CSE case. ACTS assigns a special account type to "Inquiry Only" participants so that they can be listed separately from regular case participants. Once an “Inquiry Only" participant is linked to a case in ACTS, that participant’s name is moved from the Inquiry Only list to the regular participant list.
Each person in a case is referred to as a "participant". Once a participant record has been created, that participant can be linked with any number of cases. When each participant record is created, ACTS assigns a Master Participant Index (MPI) number to that participant. Once all of the participants (a client, at least one child, and the noncustodial parent) have been created, they must then be "linked" together to form a case. ACTS then assigns a CSE case (IV-D) number to the case.
It is vital to the CSE program that only one participant record be created for any one person. Before allowing caseworkers to create a new participant record, ACTS searches its participant database and provides a list of possible matches. This search helps caseworkers to avoid creating multiple participant records for the same person. If caseworkers decide that an existing participant is the same person, they should use the data that already exists, rather than re-entering it.
Any initial or follow-up information that caseworkers obtain during an interview with the client are entered directly into the case in ACTS while the interview is being conducted. This not only prevents the duplicate work that results from first writing and then typing interview information, but it also ensures that the case is created as soon as possible and that system-initiated actions can begin immediately.
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For questions or clarification on any of the policy contained in these manuals, please contact your local county office. |
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