What if I can't meet the TAFDC work rules?

There are reasons I can't meet the work rules right now. What can I do?

DTA may excuse you from the work rules if you show DTA you have a good reason for not meeting the rules. This page includes information about different reasons that DTA should accept for why you can't meet the work rules right now. 

What is a domestic violence waiver?

If you can't work because of current or past domestic violence, you may be able to get a “waiver” of the work rules for a certain amount of time, such as six months or a year. 

Tell your worker if you want to apply for a domestic violence waiver, or call a DTA Domestic Violence specialist. You can apply for a waiver at any time. When it runs out you can apply for another one.

What does DTA count as good reasons for not meeting the work rules?

• Child care  - if you are not able to find or get enough hour coverage from safe child care;
• Transportation - if you do not have reliable transportation that you can afford;
• Housing search - if you are in Emergency Assistance shelter;
• Lack of community service placement - if DTA has not given you a community service placement;
• Health - if you or a family member is sick, hurt, or disabled;
• Learning disability assessment - if you asked for one and are waiting to have it;
• Illegal working conditions - if the job you were offered pays less than minimum wage, discriminates against you because of age, sex, race, religion, ethnic origin, or physical or mental disability, does not meet health and safety standards; or is not available because of a strike or lockout; or
• All other good reasons - A family crisis, an emergency or any other important situation that you can not control and that needs your attention during the hours you would normally be working or in a program.

How do I show I have a good reason?

Tell your worker that you have a good reason for not meeting the work rules and that you need "good cause" and why. Also send DTA a note saying what your reason is. If DTA needs proof, it should mail you a Verification Checklist asking for proof to support your claim. If you need help getting proof and ask for help, your worker is required by law to help you.

What if DTA lowers or stops my benefits even though I said I have a good reason?

You can file an appeal asking for a hearing. Look on the back of the notice that says DTA is lowering or stopping your benefits. There should be an appeal form. Fill it out and send it to DTA's Division of Hearings right away. You can also file an appeal by phone. Learn more here. Call your local Legal Services for help.

What if I didn't tell DTA I have a good reason before I got a notice lowering or stopping my benefits?

You can tell DTA you have a good reason even after DTA sends you a sanction notice lowering or stopping your benefits. Send in an appeal of the notice. Also contact DTA to ask for Good Cause. If you need help, call Legal Services.