104.3 Screening Interview

The CAO must screen each applicant before an application interview. The CAO may conduct the screening interview face-to-face, by telephone, or by mail.           

55 Pa. Code § 125.24(b)

The CAO must determine the appropriate category and explain the specific requirements to the applicant.

At the screening interview, the CAO must take the following actions:

NOTE:  Ineligible aliens not seeking benefits for themselves do not need to give specific information about their immigration circumstances. See Chapter 122.

NOTE:  The CAO must offer free language-assistance services to help an applicant with limited English proficiency (LEP) complete an application.

55 Pa. Code § 125.24(b)

NOTE:  A domestic violence victim may get mail at an alternate mailing address, such as the CAO address or a legal substitute mailing address through the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP). See Section 108.1021.

NOTE:  Time limits do not apply to Medical Assistance, child care, or SNAP, with certain exceptions. 

Provide the applicant the Applying for Cash flyer PA 1909. This form is available on Docushare and must be given to the applicant at the screening interview or mailed with the PA 253.

55 Pa. Code § 141.21(b)

 55 Pa. Code § 187.21

55 Pa. Code § 187.23(b)

 

NOTE:  Special requirements apply to an unmarried pregnant female under age 18. See Section 110.6.

55 Pa. Code § 125.1(c) 

55 Pa. Code § 141.21(c)

 55 Pa. Code § 187.27

55 Pa. Code § 153.44(b)(2)(i)(C)

55 Pa. Code § 187.26(c)(1)

55 Pa. Code § 125.1(g)

55 Pa. Code § 133.23(a)(1)(viii)

55 Pa. Code § 141.41(d)

55 Pa. Code § 141.51

55 Pa. Code § 125.24(b)(9)

Exception: When the CAO is able to determine during the screening interview that the applicant is ineligible, the CAO must deny the application unless the applicant requests an application interview. See Section 104.52.

If an application interview is not scheduled, advise the applicant of other available programs such as, but not limited to, the following:

 

 

Revised July 19, 2024, replacing January 18, 2023