WAC 388-310-0800. WorkFirst — Support services

(1) Who can get support services? People who can get support services include: (a) WorkFirst participants who receive a TANF cash grant; (b) Sanctioned WorkFirst participants during the required participation before the sanction is lifted or applicants who were terminated while in noncompliance sanction who are doing activities required to reopen cash assistance (WAC 388-310-1600 ); (c) TANF/SFA applicants as needed to meet the WorkFirst orientation requirements under WAC 388-400-0005 (2) or 388-400-0010 (3); (d) Unmarried or pregnant minors who are income eligible to receive TANF and are: (i) Living in a department approved living arrangement (WAC 388-486-0005 ) and are meeting the school requirements (WAC 388-486-0010 ); or (ii) Are actively working with a social worker and need support services to remove the barriers that are preventing them from living in a department approved living arrangement or meeting the school requirements. (e) American Indians who receive a TANF cash grant and have identified specific needs due to location or employment. (f) Former WorkFirst participants who are working at least 15 hours per week or more, for up to three months after leaving TANF if they need employment-related transportation support services to meet a temporary need or emergency. (2) Why do I receive support services? Although not an entitlement, you may receive support services for the following reasons: (a) To help you participate in work and WorkFirst activities that lead to independence. (b) To help you to participate in job search, accept a job, keep working, advance in your job, or increase your wages. (c) You can also get help in paying your child care expenses through the working connections child care assistance program. (Chapter 110-15 WAC describes the rules for this child care assistance program.) (3) What type of support services may I receive and what limits apply? There is a limit of $5,000 per person per program year (July 1st to June 30th) for WorkFirst support services you may receive. The chart below shows the potential types of support services that are available. Type of Support Service Restrictions Reasonable accommodation for employment Clothing/uniforms Diapers Haircut Personal hygiene Professional, trade, association, union, and bonds Relocation related to employment or safety (can include rent, housing, and deposits) Short-term lodging and meals in connection with job interviews/tests Same rate as established by OFM for state employees Tools/equipment Car repair needed to restore car to operable condition License/fees Mileage reimbursement Same rate as established by OFM for state employees Transportation allotment, including fuel support Counseling Educational expenses Medical exams (not covered by medicaid) Public transportation Testing-diagnostic Housing and utilities Funding allocated for 07/01/2024 - 06/30/2025 only Type of Support Service Restrictions Reasonable accommodation for employment Clothing/uniforms Diapers Haircut Personal hygiene Professional, trade, association, union, and bonds Relocation related to employment or safety (can include rent, housing, and deposits) Short-term lodging and meals in connection with job interviews/tests Same rate as established by OFM for state employees Tools/equipment Car repair needed to restore car to operable condition License/fees Mileage reimbursement Same rate as established by OFM for state employees Transportation allotment, including fuel support Counseling Educational expenses Medical exams (not covered by medicaid) Public transportation Testing-diagnostic Housing and utilities Funding allocated for 07/01/2024 - 06/30/2025 only (4) What are the other requirements to receive support services? Other restrictions on receiving support services are determined by the department or its agents. They will consider whether: (a) It is within available funds; and (b) It does not assist, promote, or deter religious activity; and (c) There is no other way to meet the cost. (5) What happens to my support services if I do not participate as required? The department will give you 10 days notice, following the rules in WAC 388-310-1600 , then discontinue your support services until you participate as required.