When there is a COLA or other mass change in federal benefits, the CAO must figure each individual’s new benefit amount using one of the following methods:
Increase the amount by the same percentage as the COLA increase. The CAO must have the LTC facility or the individual verify the actual benefit amount.
Use the COLA conversion table, which can be gotten from the area manager. This method also requires verification of the actual benefit amount.
Request information from Exchange 3 (BENDEX) of IEVS. The new benefit amount for most cases is posted to IEVS in December for the COLA increase on January 1. The CAO must consider the information from IEVS to be correct. Further contact with the facility or individual for verification is not needed.
Make a plan with the individual or representative to report the change within ten calendar days. 55 Pa. Code § 121.3 (b)
Updated March 12, 2012, Reissued October 31, 2008