When DTA notifies you about the immunization rule you have 60 days to:
- bring in proof that your children's immunizations are up to date, or
- show that you have an appointment scheduled with their doctor or clinic.
DTA usually notifies you about the rule
- when you first apply,
- when a child is born, and
- when your child turns 2.
If your child is enrolled in school or a licensed childcare provider, immunization is verified by:
- Proof of enrollment in a Head Start or licensed childcare program (unless DTA pays for the Head Start or day care in which case DTA has the proof already), or
- Proof that your child is enrolled in school.
If your child is not enrolled in school or a licensed childcare provider, proof includes 1 of the following:
- A DTA immunization form filled out by your child's health care provider,
- A letter from your child's health care provider that your child is up to date on immunizations
- A copy of a MassHealth or other insurance bill showing that your child had a well-child visit within a year,
- A well child visit summary (including screen shot from provider's online portal) or a bill or receipt from a well child visit dated within a year, or
- A copy of immunizations record book
If your child is under age 2, you may be asked to show your child is still up-to-date on immunizations after they turn age 2.
If your provider has lost the records or cannot schedule an appointment for you, you can ask your DTA worker for help to get the documents or get an appointment for a well-child visit.
If within 60 days you don’t bring in proof of up-to-date immunizations, or proof that you have an appointment scheduled, you will lose your portion of the TAFDC grant. You may also lose income deductions on any earnings and other DTA support services (transportation or child care) you need to work or go to school.
Your MassHealth should not be cut. But your SNAP will not increase if your TAFDC goes down due to an immunization sanction.
Contact [email protected] if DTA sanctions you.
