Work First 112 – Kinship and Living With Requirements

V. TEMPORARY ABSENCE FROM THE HOME

Family members who are temporarily absent from the home but who intend to return may remain eligible for Work First Family Assistance.

An adult must report to the caseworker when a child is expected to be absent from the home for 90 consecutive days or longer within five days of knowing the absence will exceed 90 days. Failure to report the absence within five days makes the adult ineligible for three months beginning the month after failing to make the report.

A. If a family member will be temporarily absent for longer than 90 consecutive days, the family member is not eligible for Work First Family Assistance unless there is good cause.

Good cause is determined by the county and includes absences for medical treatment, substance abuse treatment, healthcare, and for a child, the absence may be to meet educational requirements. Good cause related to educational requirements does not apply to adults.

B. If a family member is temporarily absent, has good cause, and the absence is expected to last 12 months or less, the family member may remain eligible for Work First Family Assistance.

If the absence is expected to last longer than 12 months, the family member is not eligible for Work First Family Assistance. Evaluate the individual for ongoing Medicaid in another aid program category.

C. Temporary absence does not apply when:

1. The individual is not wanted in the home; or

2. There is no room for the individual in the home; or

3. For a child, the caretaker is unable physically or mentally to maintain a home for the child.