SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 TABLE OF ...

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 Chapter 1 Table of Contents Chapter 2 Glossary Chapter 3 Client Responsibilities and Rights Chapter 4 Program Funding/Functions Chapter 5 Employment Services Chapter 6 Participation Requirements

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 Chapter 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 2 GLOSSARY

A to Z Chapter 3 CLIENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS 3.3 Client Responsibilities and Rights Chapter 4 PROGRAM FUNDING/FUNCTIONS 4.3 Federal Funding/Functions 4.6 State Funding/Responsibilities 4.9 County Agency Functions 4.12 Employment Services Provider (ESP) Functions 4.12.3 ES Provider Functions - Fraud

Chapter 5 EMPLOYMENT SERVICES 5.3 SNAP E&T Services 5.6 SNAP E&T Orientation 5.9 Assessment and Employment Plan (EP) 5.10 Supervised Job Search and Supervised Job Search Training 5.11 Workfare 5.12 Work Experience 5,12,3 Work Based Learning 5.13 Educational Programs 5.14 Self-Employment Training 5.15 Job Retention 5.23 Support Services Chapter 6 PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS 6.3 SNAP Work Registration 6.6 Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) 6.9.3 Who Is Exempt from SNAP E&T 6.12 Failure to Comply With Work Requirements 6.18 Satisfactory Progress

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 GLOSSARY 2 ABAWDs See ABLE-BODIED ADULTS WITHOUT DEPENDENTS below. ABLE-BODIED ADULTS WITHOUT DEPENDENTS (ABAWD) Applicants/recipients between the ages of 18 and 50. Unless an ABAWD meets work provisions, regains eligibility, or meets an exemption, they are eligible for SNAP for only 3 months in any 36-month period. ABE See ADULT BASIC EDUCATION below. ADULT BASIC EDUCATION (ABE) Minnesota Department of Education approved courses of instruction designed to improve the employability of the students through instruction in reading, math, language, and workplace readiness. ADP See ADULT DIPLOMA PROGRAM below. ADULT DIPLOMA PROGRAM (ADP) Standard competency-based diploma that is issued by the Minnesota Department of Education for adults that complete an approved ABE program. APPLICANT A person who has submitted a request for assistance for whom no decision has been made regarding eligibility, and whose application has not been acted upon or voluntarily withdrawn. APPRENTICESHIP A combination of on-the-job training and related instruction in which workers learn the practical and theoretical aspects of a skills occupation. The employer pays 100% of the participant’s wages. BASIC SKILLS TRAINING/REMEDIATION SERVICES The acquisition of locally defined reading (comprehension), language arts (writing and verbal communication), and computational skills which enable an individual to function in the labor market and society. Remedial education involves the repetition of such instruction previously given to the participant. BRIDGE PROGRAMS Prepares adults with limited academic or limited English skills to enter and succeed in credit-bearing post-secondary education and training leading to career-pathway employment. Bridge programs offer skills training that result in industry recognized certificates/credentials as defined by the Department of Labor. CAF See COMBINED APPLICATION FORM (CAF) below. CLASSROOM TRAINING Courses offered by an accredited training institution, private trade schools, and academic facilities leading to a credential or certificate. CM See COMBINED MANUAL below. COMBINED APPLICATION FORM (CAF) The Combined Application Form (DHS-5223) (PDF) is used by people to apply for multiple assistance programs including: CASH ASSISTANCE, SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SNAP), and EMERGENCY PROGRAMS. See Combined Manual 0005.09 (Combined Application Form (CAF)). For health care only applications, see the Insurance Affordability Programs/Health Care Manuals. For child care applications, see the Child Care Assistance Program Policy Manual. COMBINED MANUAL (CM) The Combined Manual contains eligibility policy for Minnesota's cash and food assistance programs.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 GLOSSARY 2 COUNTY AGENCY County human services agency; the local human services office. DEED See DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT below. DEPARTMENT OF EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (DEED) The state's principal economic development agency. DEED facilitates an economic environment to produce jobs and improve the quality of the state’s workforce. DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES (DHS) The state agency that oversees county staff who determine eligibility for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Cash and Medical Assistance. DHS also administers the SNAP E&T program. DHS See DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES above. EDS See ELECTRONIC DOCUMENT STORAGE below. ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE/ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER (ESL/ELL) Instruction to participants whose native language is not English. ELECTRONIC DOCUMENT STORAGE (EDS) Software system for organizing and storing documents within Workforce One (WF1). EMPLOYED FULL-TIME Employment of 30 hours or more per week including paid internships, work study, and self-employment. This is not a component of SNAP E&T. EP See EMPLOYMENT PLAN below. EMPLOYED PART-TIME Employment of less than 30 per week including paid internships, work study, and self-employment. This is not a component of SNAP E&T. EMPLOYMENT PLAN (EP) Plan specifying in detail the services to be provided to a participant, the requirements with which the participant must comply and the possible consequence of not complying. ESL/ELL See ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE/ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNER above. ESP See EMPLOYMENT SERVICES PROVIDER below. EMPLOYMENT SERVICES PROVIDER (ESP) An agency or organization that operates under formal agreement with the State or county agency to provide employment services to participants. FNS See FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICE below. FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICE (FNS) Works to end hunger and obesity through the administration of 15 federal nutrition assistance programs including WIC,

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 GLOSSARY 2 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and school meals. FLSA See FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT below. FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT (FLSA) All uncompensated work experience and workfare participants are considered employees under the FSLA. Under FSLA, participants are not to be required to participate in uncompensated work more hours than their monthly SNAP benefit amount divided by the federal or state minimum wage, whichever is higher. FOOD SUPPORT EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING (FSET) The former name of an employment and training program for some Food Support recipients. It is now known as SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING (SNAP E&T). FSET See FOOD SUPPORT EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING (FSET) PROGRAM above. GED See GENERAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATE (GED) below. GED TRAINING Training to obtain a General Education Development (GED) Certificate. GENERAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATE (GED) A certificate issued by the Minnesota Board of Education or a similar certificate or diploma from another state equivalent to a secondary school diploma. GOOD CAUSE A situation or circumstance beyond a participant’s control which may allow the person to be excused from certain employment services activities for a certain period of time. HOLDING Activity commonly used to allow some time to pass before anticipated entry into another activity. HOMELESS A person who lacks a fixed and regular nighttime residence, or a person whose primary residence is: a supervised shelter designed for temporary accommodations; a halfway house or similar facility that provides temporary residence; a place not designed for sleeping accommodations (bridge, lobby, etc.); a temporary accommodation in the home of another person (a person in this situation may be considered homeless for no more than 90 days). IET See INTEGRATED EDUCATION TRAINING below. INDEPENDENT JOB SEARCH Job search conducted independently or individually in a group setting. INTEGRATED EDUCATION TRAINING (IET) A service approach that provides adult education and literacy activities concurrently and contextually with workforce preparation activities and workforce training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster for the purpose of educational and career advancement. INJURY PROTECTION PROGRAM (IPP) Provides medical treatment and compensation for injury or death for participants in a work experience placement. IPP Injury Protection Program. Provides medical treatment and compensation for injury or death for participants in a work experience placement.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 GLOSSARY 2 JOB READINESS Instruction in job seeking techniques. LOCAL FLAG An activity in WF1 which each SNAP E&T provider defines and uses at their own discretion. MAXIS Minnesota’s statewide automated eligibility system for public assistance programs administered by DHS. NON-CREDENTIALED TRAINING Training to increase employability which does not result in a recognized credential. OJT See ON-THE-JOB TRAINING (OJT) below. ON-THE-JOB TRAINING (OJT) PUBLIC OR PRIVATE A program in which people are hired for a job and paid a subsidized wage while they are learning the job. ORIENTATION The purpose of the orientation is to explain participation requirements, describe available services, explain that SNAP E&T can help time-limited Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) meet their eligibility and work requirements, and encourage the participant to move toward self-sufficiency through employment and training. PARTICIPANT A SNAP recipient enrolled in SNAP E&T. . RECIPIENT A person receiving SNAP benefits. RETENTION Services provided to SNAP E&T participants who have secured employment after participating in another SNAP E&T activity for a minimum of 30 days and not more than 90 days, even if the person is no longer receiving SNAP. SATISFACTORY PROGRESS Determined by the training or educational program to ensure progress toward the goals of the employment plan. SELF-EMPLOYMENT TRAINING Training that will improve the employability of a participant by providing training in setting up and operating a small business or other self-employment venture. SNAP See SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM below. SNAP E&T See SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING below. SOCIAL SERVICES For participants who are working with or being referred to agencies or programs designed to assist participants overcoming personal or family barriers which impede successful transition to work. SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SNAP) The federal Food and Nutrition Service Program of the United States Department of Agriculture. Formerly known as Food Support or Food Stamps. SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING (SNAP E&T) The name of an employment and training program for some SNAP recipients.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 GLOSSARY 2 SUITABLE EMPLOYMENT Employment that is within the participant’s physical and mental capacity, pays hourly gross wages which are not less than the federal or state minimum wage for that type of employment, meets health and safety standards set by federal, state, and county agencies, and complies with federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws. TIME-LIMITED ABAWD ABAWDs subject to the work and time limit provisions. UNCOMPENSTATED WORK EXPERIENCE Temporary uncompensated employment in public, private nonprofit, or private sector agency. The maximum number of hours of work required of a household each month is determined by dividing the household SNAP benefit allotment by the federal or state minimum wage, whichever is higher. WF1 See WORKFORCE ONE below. WIOA See WORKFORCE INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITY ACT below. WORKFARE Non-paid work at contracted, supervised work sites to gain or enhance employment skills. This activity requires a work site agreement which specifies the days and hours of work, responsibilities of the participant and supervisor, and time card submission. This must be a private of public non-profit work site. The maximum number of hours of work allowed for a household each month is determined by dividing the household SNAP benefit allotment by the federal or state minimum wage, whichever is higher. Workfare is a designated work site is designed to provide work activities to earn additional SNAP E&T months. WORKFORCE INNOVATION AND OPPORTUNITY ACT (WIOA) A national workforce preparation and employment system designed to integrate, coordinate, and improve employment, training, literacy, and vocational rehabilitation program delivered through the 1-Stop (CareerForce) system. WORKFORCE ONE (WF1) A consolidated web-based case management and management information system that enables the delivery of Employment and Training services within the Minnesota workforce development system. WF1 is also used by other employment services program staff, DHS staff and DEED staff.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 03/2019 CLIENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS 3.3 For information about clients' responsibilities and rights see: Combined Manual 0003.03

Client Responsibilities - General

Combined Manual 0003.09

Client Rights

Combined Manual 0003.09.03

Client Rights - Civil Rights

Combined Manual 0003.09.06

Client Rights - Data Privacy Practices

Combined Manual 0003.09.09

Client Rights - Private and Confidential Data

Combined Manual 0003.09.12

Client Rights - Limited English Proficiency

Combined Manual 0027 Appeals

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 03/2019 FEDERAL FUNDING/FUNCTIONS 4.3 The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) administers and funds the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and requires that states operate an employment and training program. Federal laws and regulations specify the basic structure of the program, the people to be served, the scope of program services, and the programs’ relationship to other public assistance programs. The program operates under Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 7, Section 273.7 and Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 7, Section 273.24.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 STATE FUNDING/RESPONSIBILITIES 4.6 The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) provides state agencies with grant money to fund the administrative costs of an E&T program. E&T grants vary based on the number of work registrants and Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) in a state. These grants are called 100% funds and must be used on the planning, implementation, and operation of a state E&T program. One hundred percent money cannot be used for any participant reimbursements, or support services, such as transportation or uniforms. The Minnesota Legislature annually appropriates state funding to Department Human Services (DHS) to support eligible participant reimbursements. State and federal funds available for SNAP E&T operations are then formula allocated to county agencies. Within the limits of available funding, DHS reimburses the county agency’s actual costs (including Employment Services Provider (ESP) actual costs) of providing SNAP E&T program services, including participant support services, direct program services, and program administrative costs. Another type of E&T funding is 50% reimbursement. There are two kinds of 50% reimbursement that a state agency can claim. The first kind is a 50% reimbursement for additional administrative costs for the planning, implementing, and operating of an E&T program. The second kind of 50% reimbursement that a state agency can claim is for participant reimbursements or support services. Eligible participant reimbursements are those that are reasonable, necessary, and directly related to participation in an E&T component. The Federal government will reimburse 50% of state agency payments for allowable expenses. Both 100% funding and 50% reimbursement funding can be utilized at the local level in the operation of this single program. The purpose of the SNAP E&T program is to assist members of SNAP households in gaining skills, training, work, or experience that will improve their employment prospects and reduce their reliance on SNAP benefits. State statutes implement federal laws and regulations and establish the framework for Minnesota’s SNAP E&T program. SNAP E&T program operations in Minnesota are supervised by the Department of Human Services (DHS) in partnership with the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). The program operates under Laws of Minnesota 2005, Sections 256D.051 and 256D.052. State functions include: ● Issuing of guidelines, regulations, and procedures governing statewide service programs and expenditures.

● Allocation of program funding.

● Operation and management of an automated participant tracking and reporting system.

● Federal program reporting.

● Monitoring of local service programs and expenditures.

● Coordination of services between SNAP E&T providers. DHS contracts directly with third party providers for SNAP E&T services. As a DHS grantee, these organizations are considered to be part of the “welfare system” for the purpose of serving SNAP recipients in SNAP E&T. Participant information based on business need can be shared between counties/county E&T providers and these organizations without a separate release of information.

The county agency may choose to use the same or different providers for each employment services activity, but must ensure that ESP’s follow all program requirements, policies, and guidelines.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 STATE FUNDING/RESPONSIBILITIES 4.6 DHS may reallocate unexpended money from a county that will not use all of its allocation to another county or counties that demonstrate a need for additional funds.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 COUNTY AGENCY FUNCTIONS 4.9 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients receive employment services through Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment & Training (SNAP E&T). SNAP E&T provides services to SNAP recipients In addition to administering the SNAP program, each county human services agency and reservation is required to provide a SNAP E&T program if it has not been granted a waiver. See TEMP Manual TE02.05.68 (SNAP E&T Waived Reservations), TE02.05.69 (SNAP E&T Waived Counties). The county agency may directly provide these services, contract with 1 or more ESPs to provide local SNAP E&T services and activities, or refer out to other organizations for services. County agencies and SNAP E&T providers each have certain functions and responsibilities. For provider responsibilities, see 4.12 (Employment Services Provider (ESP) Functions). The purpose of SNAP E&T is to assist members of SNAP households in gaining skills, training, work, or experience that will improve their employment prospects and reduce their reliance on SNAP benefits. County agency administrators must ensure that their SNAP E&T service providers follow SNAP E&T program requirements. The county agency is ultimately responsible for the administration of the SNAP program, ensuring information relayed from an ESP is acted on appropriately. County agency procedures and interactions with SNAP E&T providers may vary depending on the availability of SNAP E&T services in each area. Organizations receiving 50% reimbursement for eligible expenses are using their own non-federal funds to serve and support SNAP recipients in an array of skills based training and education programs. Those contracted directly with DHS are considered to be part of the “welfare system” for the purpose of serving SNAP recipients in SNAP E&T. Participant information based on business need can be shared between counties/county E&T providers and these organizations without a separate release of information. Coordination between counties/county E&T providers and these organizations is essential, especially for time-limited participants. Follow your county agency's procedures. County agency functions include: ● ADMINISTER SNAP PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY AND WORK REQUIREMENTS

- Determine SNAP eligibility.

- Determine which SNAP recipients must be registered for work and which are exempt from work registration.

- Determine which SNAP recipients are time-limited (limited to 3 counted months of SNAP benefits in a 36-month period). This this information must be recorded in MAXIS on the Work Registration (WREG) panel.

● CLIENT NOTIFICATION

- Inform SNAP Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) that they are only eligible for 3 months of SNAP benefits in a 36-month period, but that they can “earn” additional months of benefits by working or participating in work program activities. See Combined Manual 0011.24 (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents).

- Inform SNAP recipients about available employment and training programs.

● REFERRAL/COMMUNICATION WITH ESP

- Refer time-limited recipients to the ESP as soon as SNAP eligibility is approved. A referral to the ESP will be generated via the MAXIS System and automatically sent to Workforce One (WF1) when SNAP benefits are approved.

- When a time-limited SNAP recipient chooses to participate in SNAP E&T, add a worker comment to the WF1 referral noting this.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 COUNTY AGENCY FUNCTIONS 4.9

- Notify the ESP of the following changes.

- - Start of employment.

- - Hours of employment.

- - End of employment.

- - Other changes in status that affect employment and training or support services (for example, changes in the amount of child care or transportation provided).

Use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training (SNAP E&T) Status Update Form (DHS-3165A) (PDF) to report changes.

● OPERATE AND MANAGE SNAP E&T SERVICES

- If either the county agency or ESP becomes aware of circumstances that indicate a participant’s exemption status has changed, inform the other of the change. The county agency should then review the participant’s exemption status. If the participant has become exempt, the county must notify the participant and the ESP, update the MAXIS exemption code on the WREG panel and redetermine if the ABAWD months were counted properly.

- At the time the county agency notifies the household that it is eligible for SNAP, notify all time-limited recipients that they may participate in the SNAP E&T program to earn additional months of benefits.

- Operate a SNAP E&T program in compliance with state and federal laws, regulations, and guidelines.

- Provide an orientation and SNAP E&T services to all SNAP recipients who choose to participate, where resources are available. See 5.6 (SNAP E&T Orientation).

- Provide needed support services, when available, so that participants are capable of participating in SNAP E&T without out-of-pocket costs.

- Assess, monitor, evaluate, and manage service delivery by the county agency’s ESPs.

- Complete program funding requirements.

When a client moves to a different county or there is a change in service provider, the former county or former service provider who performed the initial assessment and Employment Plan (EP) or has the pertaining documents must make those documents available to the new county or the new provider. DHS retains ownership of any SNAP E&T document for which it has reimbursed the cost. This declaration must be incorporated in any service contract between the county and a service provider.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 EMPLOYMENT SERVICES PROVIDER (ESP) FUNCTIONS 4.12 SNAP E&T providers have certain functions and responsibilities. Follow the provisions of this section for SNAP E&T provider responsibilities. For information on county agency responsibilities, see 4.9 (County Agency Functions). Each Employment Services Provider (ESP) operates under a formal written agreement with a county agency, the Department of Human Services, or the Department of Employment and Economic Development, to provide SNAP E&T services to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients. Services may begin as early as the date SNAP eligibility is approved. ESPs provide the following services: ● ORIENTATION AND ASSESSMENT

- Orient participants to the SNAP E&T program.

- Assess the participant’s literacy level and refer the participant to local literacy programs when appropriate.

- Complete an employability assessment and an Employment Plan (EP) for each participant.

- Identify Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) who have time-limited SNAP eligibility, so that potential work or work program activities can be quickly developed to help them earn additional months of SNAP benefits.

- Identify the need for and coordinate support services such as transportation, purchase of equipment or tools.

● EMPLOYMENT PLAN (EP)

- Implement the participant’s EP, whether through direct service provision or referral to other agencies for services that are needed, so that the participant can successfully complete the plan and find employment.

- Monitor participant performance and participation.

- Modify the participant’s EP as necessary.

● NOTIFICATION

- Provide the county agency with information that may affect a participant’s program eligibility, or benefit amount. The ESP must notify the county agency anytime a participant’s employment status changes.

- If either the county agency or ESP becomes aware of circumstances that indicate a participant’s exemption status has changed, inform the other of the change. The county agency should then review the participant’s exemption status. If the participant has become exempt, the county must notify the participant and the ESP, update the MAXIS exemption code on the WREG panel and redetermine if the ABAWD months were counted properly.

Use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training (SNAP E&T) Status Update Form (DHS-3165A) (PDF) to report changes.

● COORDINATION AND PROGRAM RECORDS

- If a participant is enrolled with another SNAP E&T provider, refer to Workforce One (WF1) regarding program activities and

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 EMPLOYMENT SERVICES PROVIDER (ESP) FUNCTIONS 4.12

outcomes, expenditures, individual participant services and progress.

- Maintain needed program files and documentation, and record relevant participant data on the WF1 system as necessary. When a participant moves to a different county or there is a change in service provider, the former county or service provider that initially provided services must make program documents and information available to the new county or the new provider.

- The records retention policy for SNAP E&T is available on the Minnesota Department of Human Services web site by searching “County Human Services General Records Retention Schedule”. Agencies may choose an electronic or paper format. This includes the WF1 Electronic Document Storage (EDS), which meets the minimum requirement, or an agency specific electronic storage system.

- The ESP must have ongoing contact with the participant to determine progress, compliance, and any counseling or service needs. The ESP must have, at minimum, 1 monthly contact with each participant for these purposes, and this contact must be case noted.

● OPENING AND CLOSING ACTIVITIES An activity must only be opened when a participant is actively engaged in that activity, not just assigned to it. Likewise, the

activity must be closed when the participant is no longer engaged. Determine at this point whether or not the person record should be exited.

● EXITING A PERSON FROM THE PROGRAM

- Exit the person’s SNAP E&T record in WF1 within 30 days of SNAP closure (or as soon as the benefit end date is known if beyond 30 days), unless they are open in the Retention activity. The exit date must be backdated to the last day of the month of SNAP closure. For example, a November closure would have an exit date of October 31.

- Exit the person’s SNAP E&T record in WF1 within 30 days of non-engagement. The record should be exited within 30 days of failed contact and a corresponding exit date entered. If the participant is time-limited or is a SNAP eligible student based on enrollment in SNAP E&T, the employment counselor must also communicate this with the county or tribal point of contact.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 ES PROVIDER FUNCTIONS - FRAUD 4.12.3 Employment Services Providers (ESP) must notify the eligibility worker whenever they have reason to believe a participant intentionally misled the county or provider to receive public assistance payments or services including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The county may conduct a fraud investigation and/or initiate the process of recovering fraudulently obtained payments. Fraud and recovery actions are the responsibility of the county agency. The eligibility worker will notify ESP staff if a participant is found guilty of fraud and is disqualified from receiving benefits for a period of time. The ESP must notify the county agency any time there is a change in circumstances that will affect a participant’s public assistance eligibility, benefit amounts, or services. This includes notifying the county agency when a participant starts, stops, or changes employment. Use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training (SNAP E&T) Status Update Form (DHS-3165A) (PDF) to do this.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 SNAP E&T SERVICES 5.3 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides Employment Services (ES) to program participants. SNAP recipients may be served by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment & Training (SNAP E&T) program. SNAP E&T provides services to SNAP recipients who are not receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). Some SNAP recipients are required to register for work. The applicant registers all assistance unit members who are required to be work registered by signing the Combined Application Form (DHS-5223) (PDF) or the Combined Application - Addendum (DHS-5223C) (PDF). Some SNAP recipients are NOT required to register for work, see 6.3 (SNAP Work Registration). Minnesota operates an all-voluntary SNAP E&T program, exempting all work registrants, including Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs), from mandatory participation in SNAP E&T. Individuals must participate in SNAP E&T knowingly. It is important for providers to determine a process for documenting program intentionality. For example, intentionality could be demonstrated by the inclusion of an additional statement on enrollment forms or a Workforce One (WF1) case note documenting a conversation with the participant. The County Agency shall provide an Employment Services component or contract with Employment Services Providers (ESPs) for such services. The county agency may choose to use the same or different providers for each Employment Services activity. Employment Services programs may pay for some participant related expenses. See Guidance on Costs and Reimbursements (PDF). The following services may be provided and paid for with SNAP E&T funds: ● Promotion of SNAP E&T activities to eligible participants.

● Orientation. See 5.6 (SNAP E&T Orientation).

● Assessment and Employment Plan. See 5.9 (Assessment and Employment Plan (EP)).

● Supervised Job Search. See 5.10 (Supervised Job Search and Supervised Job Search Training).

● Supervised Job Search Training. See 5.10 (Supervised Job Search and Supervised Job Search Training).

● Workfare. See 5.11 (Workfare).

● Work Experience. See 5.12 (Work Experience).

● Work Based Learning. See 5.12.3 (Work Based Learning).

● Educational Programs. See 5.13 (Educational Programs).

● Self-Employment Training. See 5.14 (Self-Employment Training).

● Job Retention. See 5.15 (Job Retention).

Activity hours must be tracked in WF1 by ESPs for time-limited participants. The ESP and the related county agency must develop procedures to ensure ABAWD months are uncounted when monthly participation requirements are met. See 6.6 (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs)). When circumstances require intervention in areas outside the expertise of the ESP or require other resources, make referrals to the appropriate county or community agency designed to assist participants with overcoming personal/family barriers which impede successful transition to work. ESPs use other specialized providers to assist clients as part of meeting the goals of their employment plans. Social services must not exceed more than 49% of the monthly required 80 hours and must be not be used to exempt a person from participation. Circumstances may include, but are not limited to: ● Chemical dependency.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 SNAP E&T SERVICES 5.3 ● Mental or emotional health.

● Family violence.

● Physical health.

● Legal concerns.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 SNAP E&T ORIENTATION 5.6 The Employment Services Provider (ESP) must provide an orientation to the SNAP E&T program for all participants. The purpose of the orientation is to explain participation requirements, describe available services, identify the ESP, explain that SNAP E&T can help time-limited Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) meet their eligibility and work requirements, and encourage the participant to move toward self-sufficiency through employment and training. Either the county agency or the ESP must notify the SNAP recipient of the SNAP E&T Orientation within 30 days of the referral to the ESP if the recipient has chosen to participate. The county agency or the ESP may send the SNAP Employment & Training Program Notice To Attend Orientation (DHS-6930) (PDF). The SNAP E&T Orientation notice must contain the following information: ● Date of the orientation.

● Time the orientation.

● Place of the orientation.

● Name and telephone number of an ESP contact person.

The orientation may be done either individually or in a group setting. It may be provided through audio-visual methods as long as the participant has the opportunity for face-to-face questions and answers. The orientation must include: ● Information about employment and training activities that may enable time-limited ABAWDs to earn more than 3 months of

SNAP benefits in a 36-month period (for time-limited ABAWDs only).

● The services, including support services, available through SNAP E&T and from other providers of similar services.

● The date, time, and address to report for SNAP E&T services.

● The consequences for failing, without good cause, to comply with program requirements, including accepting suitable employment. See Combined Manual 0028.30.09 (Refusing or Terminating Employment).

An orientation must be provided at least once during any 12 consecutive calendar month period. The 12 consecutive calendar month period begins on the 1st of the month after the month of eligibility, and ends on the last day of the 12th consecutive month.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 ASSESSMENT AND EMPLOYMENT PLAN (EP) 5.9 SNAP E&T services may begin as early as the date Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility is approved. SNAP E&T services must include an employability assessment and Employment Plan (EP). The assessment and EP must be done in consultation with the participant. The purpose of an assessment is to collect and evaluate information to identify a participant’s employment goals, barriers, and support service needs. It should be individualized and completed in an interactive face-to-face meeting with the participant. The information collected from this assessment is the basis for the EP. The assessment must be completed within 30 days of the referral to SNAP E&T and must consider: ● The participant's literacy level (see NOTE below).

● The participant's ability to communicate in the English language.

● The participant’s education and employment history.

● The estimated length of time it will take the participant to obtain employment.

● The participant's employment-related skills and abilities, barriers to employment, steps necessary to overcome the participant's

barriers to employment and any special services needed to meet the participant’s needs.

The state does not require that a particular form be used for recording the results of the assessment. County agencies and Employment Service Providers (ESPs) may develop and utilize their own forms for this purpose or may record relevant information in a standard location in the case notes. Each topic area above should be dealt with on the assessment form or in the case notes. NOTE: Literacy testing may be routinely included as part of the assessment, but is not required for all participants. The ESP should use available information about the participant (for example, how applications and other forms are completed, the participant’s speech, participant disclosure, reports from other sources) to form an opinion of the participant’s literacy and reading capabilities. The participant’s literacy capabilities should be tested if a problem is perceived. The ESP should record each participant’s perceived and tested literacy and reading capability in the case record. Development of an assessment is required only once in any 12 consecutive month period. Participant-Specific EP Components: The following items must be addressed and provided for in the EP if they apply to the participant: ● Referral as necessary to available accredited remedial training programs designed to address barriers to employment. This

may include placement in:

- English as a Second Language (ESL) skills programs.

- Literacy training programs.

- Adult Basic Education (ABE) or secondary education programs.

- Other remedial or skill enhancement programs.

● Referral to other available programs that provide subsidized or unsubsidized employment. This may include:

- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

- Job Service.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 ASSESSMENT AND EMPLOYMENT PLAN (EP) 5.9

- Local agencies or programs geared to help the participant become employable.

● Other activities designed by the county or the ESP to prepare the participant for permanent employment. The EP is a written plan specifying in detail the services to be provided to a participant, the requirements with which the participant must comply and the possible consequence of not complying, such as exit from the program, inability to earn additional months of food benefits, or lack of support from the ESP. An EP must be developed within 30 days of the person being referred to SNAP E&T and must be based on the assessment conducted for the participant. The participant must sign and receive a copy of the EP. Participants who refuse to cooperate with development of the plan or to sign the plan are considered non-compliant with SNAP E&T. Development of an EP is required only once in any 12 consecutive months, but must accurately reflect the activities of the participant at any given time. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Employment and Training Plan (DHS-6020) (PDF) is expected to be used, at minimum, for all time-limited participants. ESPs may use their own Employment Plan form for participants that are not subject to the work and time limit provisions. At minimum, an alternative form must contain the following: ● A specific employment objective that the participant is working toward.

● The specific services to be provided that will lead to that objective.

● The dates, times, and locations of where services will be provided.

● The hours of activity required each week.

● Requirements for daily activity.

● Information about the consequences of failing to comply with the EP.

● The name and telephone number of their contact person. For time-limited participants, the plan of services must address the need to work or participate in work activities for at least 80 hours per month in order to earn additional months of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. All SNAP E&T activities count toward the 80-hour per month work requirement for these participants, however, participation in Supervised Job Search and Supervised Job Search Training is not a countable activity unless it makes up less than 50% of the required 80 hours per month, or the ABAWD is co-enrolled in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). The ESP is responsible for co-enrolling a participant. Intermediate Steps: When developing a participant’s EP, it is important to break each employment goal into intermediary steps with specific, easily measured activities which will move the participant along the path toward employment and self-sufficiency. The clearer these intermediary steps are to both the participant and ESP, the less likely it is that there will be disputes about satisfactory progress. Maximum Participation: The EP must be designed so that the participant is not required to participate in SNAP E&T activities more than 120 hours per month. It also should not place any requirement on a participant that interferes with employment which the county agency has determined can lead to self-sufficiency.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 SUPERVISED JOB SEARCH AND SUPERVISED JOB SEARCH TRAINING 5.10 ● Supervised Job Search is a component in which the participant is primarily engaged in actively applying for work, building

connections with prospective employers, and/or attending hiring events and other networking opportunities. Participants may conduct these activities at any location appropriate to the activity, including, but not limited to their home, job sites, public facilities, or their SNAP E&T provider locations. However, participants must report activities and hours through sign-in sheets, email records, phone, mobile app, or another state-approved method at least once per week. Providers must retain a record of dates and hours of job search activity as well as a summary of job search activities performed (including the date, time, activity type, positions applied for (if any), and any application barriers that may have arisen). Providers must establish, in consultation with the participant, individual goals for the number of applications or contacts made each month. This standard should take into account the participant’s location and barriers. Providers must demonstrate through case notes or other means that they have engaged in regular meaningful communication with the participant about their job search. Supervised Job Search focuses on searching for and applying for jobs with direct supervision. NOTE: For a time-limited ABAWD, participation in Supervised Job Search is not a countable activity unless it makes up less than 50% of the required 80 hours per month, or the participant is co-enrolled in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Workforce One Activity(ies): Supervised Job Search.

● Supervised Job Search Training is a component that strives to enhance the job search skills of participants by providing instruction and high-touch mentoring in job seeking techniques, increasing motivation and self-confidence for work, and understanding employer needs. The component may consist of employability assessments, job placement services, one-on-one case management to reduce employment barriers, high-touch application assistance, and training in aspects of the job search process including resume writing, interviewing, appropriate dress, social skills, and using job search technology. NOTE: For a time-limited ABAWD, participation in Supervised Job Search Training is not a countable activity unless it makes up less than 50% of the required 80 hours per month, or the participant is co-enrolled in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Workforce One Activity(ies): Supervised Job Search Training.

The county agency and the Employment Services Provider (ESP) may require participation in supervised job search and/or supervised job search training when completing the participant’s Employment Plan (EP). Requirements must be clearly specified in the EP so the participant knows and understands all expectations. If a participant accepts part-time employment the person must continue participation in a SNAP E&T component, such as supervised job search, in order to remain enrolled; employed part-time cannot be the only open activity. The ESP must have on-going contact with the participant to determine progress, compliance, and any counseling or service needs. The ESP must have, at minimum, 1 monthly contact with each participant for these purposes, and this contact must be case noted.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 WORKFARE 5.11 ● Workfare is a work component in which SNAP recipients perform work in a private or public non-profit agency as a condition

of eligibility. In lieu of wages, workfare participants receive compensation in the form of their household’s monthly benefit allotment. The primary goal of workfare is to improve employability and encourage individuals to move into regular employment while returning something of value to the community. Workfare assignments cannot replace or prevent the employment of regular employees and assignments must provide the same benefits and working conditions provided to regular employees performing comparable work for comparable hours. The maximum number of hours of work required of a household each month is determined by dividing the household’s SNAP benefit allotment by the federal or state minimum wage, whichever is higher. The county agency or Employment Services Provider (ESP) must round the number of hours arrived at through this computation down to the next full hour. For time-limited participants, the work requirement is considered to be met when the maximum number of hours are obtained. This component requires the provider to enter into a worksite agreement which specifies days/hours of work and responsibilities of the participant and supervisor. Workforce One Activity(ies): Workfare.

A contractual agreement is required between the ESP and the agency providing the workfare slot. The participant’s previous training, experience, and skills should be considered when making a placement in a workfare position. The ESP must ensure that no work assignment results in: ● Termination, layoff, or reduction of work hours of an employee for the purpose of hiring a workfare participant.

● The hiring of a workfare participant if any other person is on layoff, including seasonal layoff, from the same or a substantially

equivalent job.

● Any infringement of the promotional opportunities of any currently employed individual.

● The impairment of an existing contract for services or a collective bargaining agreement.

● A participant filling an established unfilled position vacancy. The employer must provide the same or equivalent working conditions to workfare employees as it does to similarly situated employees. The job slot cannot involve political or partisan activities. Participation in a workfare work site is voluntary for all participants. No participant shall be required to participate in workfare. Priority for work site placement should be given to participants who cannot “earn” additional months of SNAP benefits in another way. Within the limits of program funding, participants must be reimbursed for any out-of-pocket costs of participating. It is recommended that job seeking be continued in addition to the workfare placement so that suitable employment is located early. The participant's ESP must include the length of time needed in the workfare program, the need to continue job seeking activities while participating in workfare, and the participant's employment goals. After each 6 months of a person’s participation in a workfare job placement, and at the conclusion of each workfare assignment under this section, the ESP must reassess and revise, as appropriate, the participant's employment plan. The ESP must maintain records of hours worked, work sites, and hours assigned, and must maintain communications with the county agency regarding work site operations. All records must be maintained for a minimum of 10 years after termination from the program. After a participant has been assigned to a workfare position for 9 months, the participant may not continue in that assignment, unless the maximum number of hours the participant works does not exceed the SNAP benefit divided by the rate of pay for individuals employed in the same or similar occupations by the same employer at the same site. A participant has good cause for failure to cooperate with a workfare placement if, in the judgment of the county agency or ESP, the reason for failure is reasonable and justified.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 WORKFARE 5.11 Workfare participants who are in an ESP-approved work site qualify for the Injury Protection Program (IPP). This state-funded program provides payment for medical treatment, permanent partial disability compensation, and compensation for injuries resulting in death for people who are injured while performing work under the workfare program. Compensation under the IPP is limited to reimbursement for reasonable medical expenses and permanent partial disability compensation in amounts comparable to those allowed under the state’s Workers’ Compensation program. Compensation for injuries resulting in death includes reasonable medical expenses and burial expenses, in addition to payment to the participant's estate in an amount up to $200,000. Payments made by the IPP are reduced by any proceeds received from any insurance policy covering the loss (excluding Health Care payments). The IPP does not provide payment for pain and suffering, lost wages, or other benefits provided under Workers’ Compensation. Complete the Injury Protection Program Participant Information and Authorization to Release Medical Information (DHS-3994) (PDF) prior to placing a participant in workfare.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 WORK EXPERIENCE 5.12 ● Work Experience is a component designed to improve the employability of participants through actual work experience and

to enable them to move into regular employment. Work experience assignments may not replace the employment of a regularly employed individual and they must provide the same benefits and working conditions provided to regularly employed individuals performing comparable work for comparable hours. In contrast to the workfare component, it is permissible to place E&T participants in work experience positions with private, for-profit companies. Households that include uncompensated work experience participants must not be required to work more hours monthly than the total obtained by dividing the household’s monthly SNAP allotment by the higher of the applicable Federal or State minimum wage. The county agency or ESP must round the number of hours arrived at through this computation down to the next full hour. Labor standards apply in any work experience setting where an employee/employer relationship, as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act, exists. Workforce One Activity(ies): Uncompensated Work Experience.

Work experience is uncompensated work at either: ● A work site selected by the participant. It is possible that the participant may locate an uncompensated work position to obtain

work experience. The work site must be approved by the county agency or Employment Services Provider (ESP) and must provide structured, supervised work duties for the required number of hours.

● An ESP-located work site/placement in an ESP developed work slot which provides the required number of hours of supervised work.

The participant’s previous training, experience, and skills should be considered when making a placement in a work experience position. The ESP must ensure that no work assignment results in: ● Termination, layoff, or reduction of work hours of an employee for the purpose of hiring a work experience participant.

● The hiring of a work experience participant if any other person is on layoff, including seasonal layoff, from the same or a

substantially equivalent job.

● Any infringement of the promotional opportunities of any currently employed individual.

● The impairment of an existing contract for services or a collective bargaining agreement.

● A participant filling an established unfilled position vacancy. The employer must provide the same or equivalent working conditions to work experience employees as it does to similarly situated employees. The job slot cannot involve political or partisan activities. Participation in a work experience work site is voluntary for all participants. No participant shall be required to participate in a work experience work site. Priority for work site placement should be given to participants who cannot “earn” additional months of SNAP benefits in another way. Within the limits of program funding, participants must be reimbursed for any out-of-pocket costs of participating. It is recommended that job seeking be continued in addition to the work experience placement so that suitable employment is located early. The participant's ESP must include the length of time needed in the work experience program, the need to continue job seeking activities while participating in work experience, and the participant's employment goals. After each 6 months of a person’s participation in a work experience job placement, and at the conclusion of each work experience assignment under this section,

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 WORK EXPERIENCE 5.12 the ESP must reassess and revise, as appropriate, the participant's employment plan. The ESP must maintain records of hours worked, work sites, and hours assigned, and must maintain communications with the county agency regarding work site operations. All records must be maintained for a minimum of 10 years after termination from the program. After a participant has been assigned to a work experience position for 9 months, the participant may not continue in that assignment, unless the maximum number of hours the participant works does not exceed the SNAP benefit divided by the rate of pay for individuals employed in the same or similar occupations by the same employer at the same site. A participant has good cause for failure to cooperate with a work experience job placement if, in the judgment of the county agency or ESP, the reason for failure is reasonable and justified. Work experience participants who are in an ESP-approved work site qualify for the Injury Protection Program (IPP). This state-funded program provides payment for medical treatment, permanent partial disability compensation, and compensation for injuries resulting in death for people who are injured while performing work under the work experience program. Compensation under the IPP is limited to reimbursement for reasonable medical expenses and permanent partial disability compensation in amounts comparable to those allowed under the state’s Workers’ Compensation program. Compensation for injuries resulting in death includes reasonable medical expenses and burial expenses, in addition to payment to the participant's estate in an amount up to $200,000. Payments made by the IPP are reduced by any proceeds received from any insurance policy covering the loss (excluding Health Care payments). The IPP does not provide payment for pain and suffering, lost wages, or other benefits provided under Workers’ Compensation. Complete the Injury Protection Program Participant Information and Authorization to Release Medical Information (DHS-3994) (PDF) prior to placing a participant in uncompensated work experience.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 WORK BASED LEARNING 5.12.3 ● Work Based Learning is a component comprised of structured work activities, including on-the-job training (OJT),

apprenticeship, and subsidized employment, that combine in some form education and/or training and paid work. Unlike regular employment, this requires an additional structured activity (beyond regular work hours).

Apprenticeship — A combination of on-the-job training and related instruction in which workers learn the practical and theoretical aspects of a skilled occupation that provides the industry-specific knowledge needed to perform highly skilled work. Apprenticeship programs can be sponsored by individual employers, joint employer and labor groups, and/or employer associations. Pre-Apprenticeship programs provide individuals with the basic and technical skills necessary to enter an apprenticeship program and should be directly linked to an apprenticeship program. On-The-Job Training (OJT) – A work placement made through a contract with an employer or registered apprenticeship program sponsor in the public, private non-profit, or private sector. An OJT contract must be limited to the period of time required for a participant to become proficient in the occupation for which the training is being provided. In determining the appropriate length of the contract, consideration should be given to the skill requirements of the occupation, the academic and occupational skill level of the participant, prior work experience, and the participant's individual employment plan. Wages are reimbursed at a set percentage by the organization to the employer for the length of the contract. OJT also carries the expectation that the participant will be hired by the employer in a permanent position when the contract ends. Subsidized Employment – A temporary work placement made through a contract with an employer. Wages are paid by an entity other than the employer. Subsidized employment placements help participants by providing them with employment skills, work history, and wages. SNAP E&T funds cannot be used to reimburse participant wages. Workforce One Activity(ies): Apprenticeship, OJT, Subsidized Employment.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS 5.13 ● Educational Programs is a component that improves basic skills or otherwise improves employability by expanding job

search abilities. Only educational components that establish a direct link to job-readiness will be approved, although programs that involve articulated career pathways or stackable credentials that ultimately lead to employment are encouraged and allowed. Allowable educational programs may include:

Basic/Foundational Skills Instruction (includes High School Equivalency) - Programs that offer academic instruction and education services below the post-secondary level that increase an individual’s ability to read, write, and speak in English and perform mathematics or other activities necessary for the attainment of a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent; transition to postsecondary education and training; and obtain employment. Such programs include Adult Basic Education (ABE), basic literacy, and high school equivalency (GED). Minnesota only allows reimbursement for ABE/GED services provided to participants aged 21 or over. These services must be substantially differentiated from those already provided by existing education programs currently being offered at no cost to the general public. If these services are provided to persons other than E&T participants, the costs charged to E&T must be the same. Workforce One Activity(ies): Adult Basic Education, Adult Diploma Program, GED Training.

Career/Technical Education Programs or Other Vocational Training - Organized activities at the post-secondary level that provide individuals with the academic and technical knowledge and skills necessary to prepare for further education and for careers in current or emerging employment sectors. Programs are primarily designed for those who are beyond the age of compulsory high school attendance. Ideally, such programs should be employer-driven and lead to industry-recognized certificates or credentials. Post-secondary training is limited to a 2-year associate degree level or lesser. Workforce One Activity(ies): Credentialed Training.

English Language Acquisition - Designed to help English language learners achieve competence in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension of the English language. Workforce One Activity(ies): ESL/ELL Training.

Integrated Education and Training (IET)/Bridge Programs - Programs that provide adult education and literacy activities concurrently and contextually with workforce preparation activities and workforce training for a specific occupation or group of occupations for the purpose of educational and career advancement. Workforce One Activity(ies): Integrated Education Training (IET)/Bridge Programs.

Work Readiness Training - Intensive programs that include skill assessment and educational remediation services that prepare individuals for the workforce. Work readiness skills may include both foundational cognitive skills such as reading for information, applied mathematics, locating information, problem solving, and critical thinking and non-cognitive skills, or soft skills, which are defined as personal characteristics and behavioral skills that enhance an individual’s interactions, job performance, and career prospects such as adaptability, integrity, cooperation, and workplace discipline. Workforce One Activity(ies): Non-Credentialed Training.

Participants must make satisfactory progress toward completion of their overall employment goals. Participants will vary in their ability to benefit from educational programs, and programs will vary in their definitions of satisfactory progress. The ESP should become familiar with the standards for satisfactory progress in the program the participant plans to attend. If the participant had good cause for failing to attend or make satisfactory progress, the EP should be revised if necessary. The ESP may not be charged more than the general public would pay for education. Federal regulations require that federal funds used for an educational component must not be used to supplant non-federal funds for existing educational services and activities. Basic/Foundational Skills Instruction (includes High School Equivalency)

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS 5.13 If the lack of basic education is a barrier to obtaining suitable employment, it will generally be identified during the employability assessment. In other cases, this issue may present itself during supervised job search or supervised job search training. In still other cases, it may not be identified until an ESP or another professional works more closely with the participant. Regardless of when the lack of basic skills is identified as an issue, the ESP may include Adult Basic Education (ABE), Adult Diploma Program (ADP), or General Education Development (GED) course work in the EP. Examples of when to include these activities in an EP include: ● ABE, ADP, or GED is considered the best path to employment.

● Low skill levels make it difficult to complete job applications, interfere with the ability to get, keep, or advance on the job, or

are otherwise a barrier to self-sufficiency.

● The participant is very close (1 to 3 months) to completing 1 of these activities at the time of the assessment. Career/Technical Education Programs or Other Vocational Training Classroom training and educational activities may be included in an EP, but are limited to a 2-year associate degree or lesser. This may include prerequisite courses (other than a remedial course) that meet the requirements of a career or technical education program. In order for a post-secondary education program to be approved, the participant or the ESP must ensure that: ● The goals in the participant's EP could be met with the post-secondary training.

● There is a market for employees with the proposed training where the participant will (or is willing to) reside upon completion

of the program.

● The participant can meet the requirements for admission into the program.

● There is a reasonable expectation that the participant will complete the training program based on such factors as their current assessment, previous education, training, work history, current motivation, and circumstances.

The ESP must ensure that the participant is making satisfactory progress in the program. Satisfactory progress must be defined in the participant's EP. The ESP may accept or modify the definition of satisfactory progress used by the educational institution where the participant is enrolled. Both classroom and study hours count toward the work requirement for time-limited participants. Though self-initiated students are not subject to the work and time limit provisions, to remain SNAP eligible, self-initiated students must maintain satisfactory progress in the program. English Language Acquisition When the ESP determines that the lack of English proficiency is a significant barrier to obtaining suitable employment, the ESP must address the issue when developing the participant's EP and should consider including participation in an English as a Second Language (ESL) or English Language Learner (ELL) program. While it may sometimes be more difficult to find work with a limited ability to speak English, there are jobs that are available to participants with limited English language abilities. Participants who are not proficient in English should be informed of the opportunity to increase their income through work, and should be encouraged and assisted with job search if they are able to work immediately. Integrated Education and Training (IET)/Bridge Programs IET/Bridge programs are designed to build the foundational skills of individuals whose academic abilities do not meet the minimum requirements of a traditional post-secondary degree or certificate program. IET/Bridge programming provides enhanced support and programming for individuals through contextualized foundational instruction. For example, for a participant entering a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, the reading instruction would be focused on healthcare terms and vocabulary. There may be an ABE/ESL/ELL instructor in the classroom teaching alongside the CNA instructor.

SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS 5.13 Most entry-level career pathways programs will fit into this activity. This activity may be used in conjunction with classroom training or other educational programs. For example, if a participant is attending ESL/ELL or ABE outside of the IET/Bridge program training, both activities must be opened in Workforce One (WF1). IET/Bridge programs may be included in an EP, but are limited to a 2-year associate degree or lesser. In order for this program to be approved, the participant or the ESP must ensure that: ● The goals in the participant's EP could be met with additional training that will allow the participant entrance into a career

pathway.

● The participant can meet the requirements for eligibility and/or admission into the program.

● There is a reasonable expectation that the participant will complete the training program based on such factors as their current assessment, previous education, training, work history, current motivation, and circumstances.

The ESP must ensure that the participant is making satisfactory progress in the program. Satisfactory progress must be defined in the participant's EP. The ESP may accept or modify the definition of satisfactory progress used by the educational institution where the participant is enrolled. Both classroom and study hours count toward the work requirement for time-limited participants. Though self-initiated students are not subject to the work and time limit provisions, to remain SNAP eligible, self-initiated students must maintain satisfactory progress in the program. Work Readiness Training Work readiness training includes intensive programs that include skill assessment and educational remediation services that prepare individuals for the workforce. Work readiness skills may include both foundational cognitive skills such as reading for information, applied mathematics, locating information, problem solving, and critical thinking and non-cognitive skills, or soft skills, which are defined as personal characteristics and behavioral skills that enhance an individual’s interactions, job performance, and career prospects such as adaptability, integrity, cooperation, and workplace discipline. Work readiness training is intended to increase employability, but does not result in a recognized credential.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 SELF-EMPLOYMENT TRAINING 5.14 ● Self-Employment Training is a component that improves the employability of participants by providing training in setting up

and operating a small business or other self-employment venture. Workforce One Activity(ies): Self-Employment Training.

Participants enrolled in self-employment training receive technical assistance in developing business plans and in creating financial marketing plans. Participants also learn how to access small business grants and other business support services.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 JOB RETENTION 5.15 ● Job Retention services may be provided to SNAP E&T participants who have secured employment after participating in

another E&T component. Only individuals who have received other employment and/or training services under the E&T program are eligible for job retention services. This component is meant to help participants who have secured employment achieve satisfactory performance, retain employment, or to increase earnings over time. Such services and reimbursable participant costs may include, but are not limited to: - Case management. - Life skill classes. - Referrals to other services. - Dependent care assistance. - Transportation assistance. - Clothing required for the job. - Equipment or tools required for the job. -Test fees. - Union dues. - Licensing and bonding fees. Individual circumstances may warrant job retention services that begin at various times, such as on the day a job offer is accepted, the day the individual reports the information to their E&T case manager, the 1st day of the job, or other time based on the availability and type of services. Retention services must be provided for a minimum of 30 days, but not more than 90 days. The provider may identify when the 90 days of job retention services start, however, the household must have been receiving SNAP in the month of or the month prior to beginning job retention services. Workforce One Activity(ies): Retention.

Job retention services are available to a participant for each new job or promotion the individual obtains, as long as the improvement was gained as a result of participation in SNAP E&T. For example, if an individual gains employment through a new job, receives 90 days of job retention services, and then later finds a different job, they would generally not be eligible for a new 90-day period of job retention services. However, if the individual re-engaged in SNAP E&T services and then gains new employment, they would be eligible for additional job retention services. There may be circumstances where an individual participates in job search, gains employment and receives 30 to 90 days of job retention services. This individual may later reengage with SNAP E&T after a job loss to search for work or obtain career or technical training to find a better job and could qualify for an additional 90 days of job retention services.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 11/2019 SUPPORT SERVICES 5.23 SNAP E&T Essential Cost Principles: ● E&T expenses must be directly related to an approved E&T program component.

● Costs must be reasonable and necessary. A cost is reasonable if, in its nature and amount, it does not exceed that which a

prudent person would pay under the circumstances prevailing at the time the decision was made to incur this cost. Necessary costs are incurred to carry out essential functions, cannot be avoided without adversely affecting program operation, and do not duplicate existing efforts.

The county agency must arrange for or provide support services needed to enable participants to participate in SNAP E&T, within the limit of available funds. For a list of allowed and disallowed costs, see Guidance on Costs and Reimbursements (PDF). For more information, see the USDA SNAP E&T Employment and Training Toolkit. Transportation costs for participants to engage in SNAP E&T activities are reimbursable. Transportation costs would not be reimbursable if they are associated with a participant's job, unless the participant is engaged in retention. The following guidelines should be used to assess whether a participant’s expense is an approvable reimbursement: ● Participant’s expense must be a necessary and reasonable SNAP E&T program component.

● Participant’s expense must not be used to overcome barriers to participation that would make the participant exempt from

Work Registration.

● Payment for the expense may not be available through another government program or available at no cost to the participant through private sources such as charitable donations.

● The expense cannot be for a participant’s regular employment, unless the participant is engaged in retention.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 SNAP WORK REGISTRATION 6.3 Work registration is a national SNAP program requirement and there is a close relationship between work registration and SNAP E&T. SNAP recipients who are exempt from work registration are also exempt from SNAP E&T participation. Participation in SNAP E&T is voluntary for all SNAP recipients. See Combined Manual 0028.06.12 (Who is Exempt From SNAP Work Registration).

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 ABLE-BODIED ADULTS WITHOUT DEPENDENTS (ABAWDS) 6.6 Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) are applicants or recipients between the ages of 18 and 50. Unless an ABAWD lives in a waived area, meets work provisions, regains eligibility, or meets an exemption, they are eligible for SNAP for only 3 months in any 36-month period and are considered to be time-limited. ABAWDs may “earn” additional months of eligibility, or avoid using 1 of their 3 entitled months, when they work or participate in work activities an average of 20 hours per week (80 hours per month), meeting their work provisions. These do not have to be consecutive months. For each month that the person works or participates in work activities at this level, the person “earns” a month of SNAP benefits. Countable work or work program activities are: ● Working, including paid employment, self-employment, in-kind, and unpaid work. This includes use of accrued sick or

vacation time, if available.

● Participating in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) services equal to or more than the ABAWD work requirement of 20 hours per week, averaged 80 hours per month.

● Participating in Trade Adjustment Act (TAA) services equal to or more than the ABAWD work requirement of 20 hours per week, averaged 80 hours per month.

● Participating in SNAP E&T activities. NOTE: For an ABAWD, participation in job search is not a countable activity unless it makes up less than 50% of the required 80 hours per month, or the ABAWD is co-enrolled in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).

See Combined Manual 0011.24 (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents).

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 WHO IS EXEMPT FROM SNAP E&T 6.9.3 Participation in SNAP E&T is voluntary for all SNAP recipients. Referrals to Workforce One for enrollment in SNAP E&T are sent for all time-limited SNAP recipients when eligibility is approved, however, any person receiving SNAP can participate. An exemption from the time-limit may be determined at a later date. Through ongoing assessment and monthly contact, changes in participant circumstances may become evident and require a change to work registration status. Communicate these types of changes to the county eligibility worker for determination. For more information on who is exempt, see Combined Manual 0028.06.10 (Who is Exempt From SNAP E&T).

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH WORK REQUIREMENTS 6.12 When the Employment Service Provider (ESP) determines that a participant has failed, without good cause to accept any bona fide offer of suitable employment, quit a job of 30 or more hours per week or reduced work effort to less than 30 hours per week, the ESP must inform the county eligibility worker. The eligibility worker will follow SNAP policy requirements in Combined Manual 0028.30.09 (Refusing or Terminating Employment). For information regarding suitable employment, see Combined Manual 0028.18.03 (Suitable/Unsuitable Work). Using information provided by the ESP and any information the participant presents, the county eligibility worker must make the final determination of good cause for non-compliance with requirements. If the county eligibility worker determines that the participant had good cause for refusing to accept suitable employment, a sanction must not be imposed. For information regarding good cause, see Combined Manual 0028.21 (Good Cause Non-Compliance-SNAP/MSA/GA/GRH). Participants are expected to participate in and complete the activities specified in their employment plan. Exit the person’s SNAP E&T record in Workforce One within 30 days of non-engagement. The record should be exited within 30 days of failed contact and a corresponding exit date entered. If the participant is time-limited or is a SNAP eligible student based on enrollment in SNAP E&T, the employment service provider must also communicate this with the county or tribal point of contact.

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SNAP E&T MANUAL ISSUE DATE 07/2019 SATISFACTORY PROGRESS 6.18 Participants must make satisfactory progress toward their overall employment goals and on the activities that lead toward those goals. The employment goal, activities, and standards for satisfactory progress should all be specified in the participant’s Employment Plan (EP). There are no specific state standards for establishing or monitoring satisfactory progress in SNAP E&T. Include other agencies or service organizations that help provide the services specified in the participant’s EP when establishing satisfactory progress criteria. Participants are expected to participate in and complete the activities specified in their employment plan. Exit the person’s SNAP E&T record in Workforce One within 30 days of non-engagement and a corresponding exit date entered. If the participant is time-limited or is a SNAP eligible student based on enrollment in SNAP E&T, the employment service provider must also communicate this with the county or tribal point of contact.

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