Verification

Verification is the validation of oral and written statements by means of documentation, third party contacts, and self-declarations by the applicant or client in accordance with 106 CMR 702.340. Verification must be provided during the eligibility review process or at the time of changes affecting eligibility (See 106 CMR 702.330). All documentation, as well as information obtained through third party contacts, shall be made part of the case record. Eligibility factors must always be verified as required by 106 CMR 702.330. Verifications that are included in another case record shall be used to verify those factors that are not subject to reverification. The Department shall require verification of factors, including additional verification of documentation already submitted, when the information available to the Department is contradictory, inconsistent or incomplete, or the Department determines that verification is necessary to ensure efficient administration of the TAFDC and EAEDC programs. When verification is required, only the documentation specified in the relevant sections of the regulations are acceptable unless unavailable in accordance with 106 CMR 702.311. Alternative methods of verification for unavailable documents shall be accepted in accordance with 106 CMR 702.340. If none of the verifications listed resolves an eligibility issue, the worker may require verification from other sources.