465 Neb. Admin. Code, ch. 2, § 003

Current through June 17, 2024

Section 465-2-003 - Department Responsibilities

The DSS staff shall -

1. Allow anyone who requests assistance to complete an application;

2. Give an explanation of the program requirements;

3. Collect and review the information entered on the application form;

4. Explain fully the eligibility and benefit factors and how changes will affect eligibility and benefits;

5. Explain the eligibility and benefit factors that require verification;

6. Obtain the client's written consent for the needed verification;

7. Explore income that may be currently or potentially available;

8. Give information about other programs and services available through the agency for which the client may be eligible;

9. Inform the client about his/her rights and responsibilities (see 465 NAC 2-001 and 2-002);

10. Complete necessary reports and forms;

11. Act within 30 days on the client's application (for food stamp households entitled to expedited processing of the application, see 475 NAC 2-004.01);

12. Provide adequate notice to the client of any case action;

13. Maintain case records;

14. Inform the client of legal services available in the community if the client requests a fair hearing;

15. Uphold the client's civil rights. No person may be subjected to discrimination on the grounds of his/her race, color, national origin, sex, age, handicap, religion, or political belief;

16. Treat the client's information confidentially (see 465 NAC 2-005); and

17. Exercise the prudent person principle (see 465 NAC 2-003.01).

003.01Prudent Person Principle:

The prudent person principle is defined as the practice of assessing all circumstances regarding a case and using good judgment in requiring further verification, information, or clarification.

465 Neb. Admin. Code, ch. 2, § 003