Effective Date of Rule: December 1, 2009.

     Purpose: The department of early learning (DEL) is adopting changes to rules that help eligible parents obtain state-paid child care subsidies under the working connections child care (WCCC) and seasonal child care (SCC) programs.

     The WCCC and SCC rules are consolidated into chapter 170-290 WAC. Seasonal child care rules in chapter 170-292 WAC are repealed.

     Chapters 170-290 and 170-292 WAC were transferred to the department of early learning (DEL) from the department of social and health services (DSHS) when the legislature created DEL in 2006 by enacting chapter 265, Laws of 2006 (2SHB 2964). Both WAC chapters were outdated, and the rules did not reflect how the programs are operated nor the child care collective bargain[ing] agreement with the Service Employees International Union Local 925 (SEIU).

     DEL is revising the child care subsidy rules in phases. The new, amended and repealed rules adopted herein represent the first phase. The rules are intended to:

•	Be clearer and easier to understand;
•	Make requirements in rule consistent with the current child care collective bargaining agreement where appropriate;
•	Clarify DEL and DSHS roles in the WCCC program as provided in 2SHB 2964. DEL and DSHS operate this program jointly. DEL adopts WCCC policy and rules, while DSHS determines a family's eligibility and authorizes child care based on chapter 170-290 WAC, and processes subsidy payments to child care providers;
•	Clarify the role of SCC contractors, which are local community agencies contracted by DEL to accept applications for SCC subsidies, and to determine family eligibility and SCC benefits;
•	Change references to DSHS-related laws, rules and programs to DEL references where appropriate; and
•	Make requirements consistent between the WCCC and SCC rules where appropriate.

     The second phase of the DEL subsidy rule changes are planned to start shortly after these first-phase rules are adopted. Revisions in the second phase are expected to be more substantive than changes made in the first phase.

     DEL plans to involve interested consumers, advocates, SEIU, DSHS and others in developing the second-phase subsidy rules. Draft materials will be circulated for informal public input before DEL prepares and files a formal proposed rule. To join a DEL mailing list of persons and groups interested in receiving information about the child care subsidy rule changes, please e-mail Rules@del.wa.gov or write to the DEL Rules Coordinator, P.O. Box 40970, Olympia, WA 98504-0970.

     Conversion Table: Revised and New WAC - to - Old or Repealed WAC.

     Citation of Existing Rules Affected by this Order: Repealing WAC     170-290-0010, 170-290-0105, 170-290-0108, 170-290-0260, 170-290-0265, 170-290-0270, 170-290-0273, 170-290-0274, 170-292-0001, 170-292-0003, 170-292-0005, 170-292-0010, 170-292-0015, 170-292-0020, 170-292-0025, 170-292-0030, 170-292-0035, 170-292-0040, 170-292-0045, 170-292-0050, 170-292-0055, 170-292-0060, 170-292-0065, 170-292-0070, 170-292-0075, 170-292-0080, 170-292-0085, 170-292-0090, 170-292-0095, 170-292-0100, 170-292-0102, 170-292-0105, 170-292-0110, 170-292-0115, 170-292-0120, 170-292-0125, 170-292-0130, 170-292-0135, 170-292-0140, 170-292-0145, 170-292-0150, 170-292-0155 and 170-292-0160; and amending WAC 170-290-0001, 170-290-0005, 170-290-0012, 170-290-0015, 170-290-0020, 170-290-0025, 170-290-0030, 170-290-0031, 170-290-0032, 170-290-0035, 170-290-0040, 170-290-0045, 170-290-0050, 170-290-0055, 170-290-0060, 170-290-0065, 170-290-0070, 170-290-0075, 170-290-0082, 170-290-0085, 170-290-0090, 170-290-0095, 170-290-0100, 170-290-0107, 170-290-0110, 170-290-0115, 170-290-0120, 170-290-0125, 170-290-0130, 170-290-0135, 170-290-0138, 170-290-0140, 170-290-0143, 170-290-0145, 170-290-0150, 170-290-0155, 170-290-0160, 170-290-0165, 170-290-0167, 170-290-0180, 170-290-0185, 170-290-0190, 170-290-0200, 170-290-0205, 170-290-0220, 170-290-0225, 170-290-0230, 170-290-0235, 170-290-0240, 170-290-0245, 170-290-0247, and 170-290-0271.

     Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 43.215.060 and 43.215.070 are statutory authority for adoption for all new and amended rules adopted by this rule-making order. RCW 43.215.060, 43.215.070, and 43.43.832(6) are statutory authority for adoption for WAC 170-290-0125, 170-290-0130, 170-290-0135, 170-290-0138, 170-290-0140, 170-290-0143, 170-290-0145, 170-290-0150 170-290-0155, 170-290-0160, 170-290-0165, and 170-290-0167, adopted by this rule-making order.

     Other Authority: Chapter 265, Laws of 2006, chapter 43.215 RCW.

      Adopted under notice filed as WSR 09-12-115 on June 3, 2009.

     Changes Other than Editing from Proposed to Adopted Version: DEL made several changes to the rules proposed on June 3, 2009, as WSR 09-12-115. Changes considered "other than editing" are described in the following table. Underlined words are words added since the proposal; words lined through are deleted from the proposed rule.

Rule as Proposed		Rule as Adopted
PART I Introduction
WAC 170-290-0001 Purpose and intent. (Subsections (2) and (3) only)		WAC 170-290-0001 Purpose and intent.
(2) The purpose of WCCC, as provided in part II of this chapter, is to: (a) Assist families lower incomes in obtaining child care subsidies for approvable activities that enable them to work, attend training, or enroll in educational programs; and (b) Consider the health and safety of children while they are in care and receiving child care subsidies.		(2) The purpose of WCCC, as provided in part II of this chapter, is to: (a) Assist eligible families with lower incomes in obtaining child care subsidies for approvable activities that enable them to work, attend training, or enroll in educational programs; and (b) Consider the health and safety of children while they are in care and receiving child care subsidies.
(3) The purpose of SCC, as provided in part III of this chapter, is to: (a) Assist families who are seasonally employed in agriculturally related work to access licensed child care; and (b) Consider the health and safety of children while they are in care and receiving child care subsidies.		(3) The purpose of SCC, as provided in part III of this chapter, is to: (a) Assist eligible families who are seasonally employed in agriculturally related work to access pay for licensed child care; and (b) Consider the health and safety of children while they are in care and receiving child care subsidies.      (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: The changes clarify wording regarding family eligibility for DEL child care subsidy programs. The changes do not alter the intent of the rule.
WAC 170-290-0003 Definitions (Subsections (9) and (10) only)		WAC 170-290-0003 Definitions
(9) "SCC" means the seasonal child care program, which is a child care subsidy program described in part III of this chapter that within available funds assists families who are seasonally employed in agriculturally related work to access licensed child care.		(9) "SCC" means the seasonal child care program, which is a child care subsidy program described in part III of this chapter that within available funds assists eligible families who are seasonally employed in agriculturally related work to access pay for licensed child care.
(10) "WCCC" means the working connections child care program, which is a child care subsidy program described in part II of this chapter that assists families with lower incomes in obtaining child care subsidies for approvable activities that enable them to work, attend training, or enroll in educational programs.		(10) "WCCC" means the working connections child care program, which is a child care subsidy program described in part II of this chapter that assists eligible families with lower incomes in obtaining child care subsidies for approvable activities that enable them to work, attend training, or enroll in educational programs. (Other subsections of this rule are unchanged.)
Reason: The changes clarify language regarding family eligibility for DEL child care subsidy programs. They do not change the intent of the rule.
PART II Working Connections Child Care
WAC 170-290-0005 Consumers (Subsection (3) only)		WAC 170-290-0005 Consumers
(3) A consumer is not eligible for WCCC benefits when he or she:		(3) A consumer is not eligible for WCCC benefits when he or she:
(a)(i) Will be away from the home for more than thirty days in a row; and (ii) Is the only parent in the household; or (b) Has a monthly copayment that is higher than the rate the state will pay for all eligible children in care.		(a) (i) Is the only parent in the family and will be away from the home for more than thirty days in a row; (ii) Is the only parent in the household; or (b) Has a monthly copayment that is higher than the rate the state will pay for all eligible children in care. (Other changes in this WAC are editing only.)
Reason: This is a technical change for clarity that does not alter the intent of the rule.
WAC 170-290-0015 Eligibility -- Family (lead paragraph and subsection (1) only)		WAC 170-290-0015 Eligibility -- Family
DSHS determines a consumer's family size by reviewing those individuals who live together in the same household as follows:		DSHS determines a consumer's family size by reviewing those individuals who live together in the same household as follows:
(1) If a consumer is:	DSHS counts the following individuals as part of the family for WCCC eligibility:	(1) If a consumer's family includes is:	DSHS counts the following individuals as part of the family for WCCC eligibility:
(a) A single parent, including a minor parent living independently.	The consumer and the consumer's children.	(a) A single parent, including a minor parent living independently.	The consumer and the consumer's children.
(b) Unmarried parents who have at least one mutual child.	Both parents and all their children living in the household.	(b) Unmarried parents who have at least one mutual child.	Both parents and all their children living in the household.
(c) Unmarried parents with no mutual children.	Unmarried parents and their respective children living in the household as separate WCCC families.	(c) Unmarried parents with no mutual children.	Unmarried parents and their respective children living in the household as separate WCCC families.
(d) Married parents.	Both parents and all their children living in the household.	(d) Married parents.	Both parents and all their children living in the household.
(e) Undocumented parents.	Parents and children, documented and undocumented, as long as the child needing care is a U.S. citizen or legally residing in the United States. All other family rules in this section apply.	(e) Undocumented parents.	Parents and children, documented and undocumented, as long as the child needing care is a U.S. citizen or legally residing in the United States. All other family rules in this section apply.
(f) A legal guardian verified by a legal or court document; adult sibling or step-sibling; nephew, niece, aunt, uncle, grandparent; or great-nephew, great-niece, great-aunt, great-uncle, or great-grandparent.	The children only (the children and their income are counted).	(f) A legal guardian verified by a legal or court document; adult sibling or step-sibling; nephew, niece, aunt, uncle, grandparent; or great-nephew, great-niece, great-aunt, great-uncle, or great-grandparent.	The children only (the children and their income are counted).
(g) A minor parent with children and lives with a parent/guardian.	Only the minor parent and their children.	(g) A minor parent with children and lives with a parent/guardian.	Only the minor parent and their children.
(h) A family member who is out of the household because of employer requirements, such as the military or training, and is expected to return to the household.	The consumer, the absent individual, and the children. Subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section apply.	(h) A family member parent who is out of the household because of employer requirements, such as the military or training, and is expected to return to the household.	The consumer, the absent parent individual, and the children. Subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section apply.
(i) A family member who is voluntarily out of the household for reasons other than requirements of the employer, such as unapproved schooling and visiting family members, and is expected to return to the household.	The consumer, the absent individual and the children. Subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section apply as well as WAC 170-290-0020.	(i) A family member parent who is voluntarily out of the household for reasons other than requirements of the employer, such as unapproved schooling and visiting family members, and is expected to return to the household.	The consumer, the absent individual parent and the children. Subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section apply as well as WAC 170-290-0020.
(j) An incarcerated family member.	The absent individual is removed from the household. We count all remaining household members. All other family rules in this section apply.	(j) An incarcerated family member parent.	The incarcerated absent individual is not part of the household count in determining income and eligibility. removed from the household DSHS counts all remaining household members. All other family rules in this section apply.
		(Changes to other subsections of this rule are editing only.)
Reason: These are technical changes for purposes of clarity that do not alter the intent of the rule. A change identical to that in subsection (1)(j) is also made in new seasonal child care WAC 170-290-3540 (1)(h).
WAC 170-290-0025 Consumer rights. (Subsection (12) only)		WAC 170-290-0025(12) Consumer rights.
When a consumer applies for or receives WCCC benefits, he or she has the right to:		When a consumer applies for or receives WCCC benefits, he or she has the right to:
...(12) Not be charged by the consumer's licensed or certified provider, or be made to pay for: (a) The difference between their private rate and the state maximum rate, when their private rate for child care or the registration fee is higher; (b) Any day when the consumer's child is absent; (c) Vacation days when the provider chooses to close; (d) A higher amount than the state allows for field trips.		...(12) Not be charged by the consumer's licensed or certified provider, or be made to pay for: (a) The difference between their the provider's private rate and the state maximum rate, when their the provider's private rate for child care or the registration fee is higher; (b) Any day when the consumer's child is absent; (c) Vacation days when the provider chooses to close; (d) A higher amount than the state allows for field trips. If the consumer requests, and the provider has a policy in place, the consumer may voluntarily pay the difference between the amount that the state allows and the actual field trip cost; (Other changes to this WAC are editing only.)
Reason: This change is needed for clarity. It allows the consumer to contribute to the cost of a field trip if the cost per child is more than what the state will pay. But the rule doesn't require the consumer to pay.
WAC 170-290-0030 Consumers' responsibilities. (First paragraph and subsections (4) through (10) only)		WAC 170-290-0030 Consumers' responsibilities. (Only subsections with substantive changes noted below)
When a consumer applies for or receives WCCC benefits, he or she must:...		When a consumer applies for or receives WCCC benefits, he or she the consumer must:...
(4) Leave the consumer's children with his or her provider while the consumer is in WCCC approved activities. If the consumer is not in an approved activity and wants to use the provider, he or she must make a plan to pay the provider if the provider wants payment;		(4) Only use WCCC benefits Leave the consumer's children with his or her provider while the consumer is in WCCC approved activities. If the consumer is not in an approved activity and wants to use the provider, he or she must make a plan to pay the provider if the provider wants payment. The provider may charge the consumer the same rate that the provider charges to other parents who are not in the WCCC program;
(5) Pay for additional child care hours that exceed the DSHS authorization based on the same fees that are charged to other families;		(5) Pay for additional child care hours that exceed the DSHS authorization based on the same fees that are charged to other families;...
...(8) Cooperate (provide the information requested) with the quality assurance review process to remain eligible for WCCC. A consumer becomes ineligible for WCCC benefits upon a determination of noncooperation by quality assurance and remains ineligible until he or she meets quality assurance requirements or thirty days from the determination of noncooperation. If DSHS determines that a consumer is not cooperating, the consumer will not be eligible for WCCC benefits. The consumer may become eligible again when he or she meets WCCC requirements in part II of this chapter, or when thirty days have passed since the consumer;		...(8)(7) Cooperate (provide the information requested) with the quality assurance review process to remain eligible for WCCC. A consumer becomes ineligible for WCCC benefits upon a determination of noncooperation by quality assurance and remains ineligible until he or she meets quality assurance requirements or thirty days from the determination of noncooperation. If DSHS determines that a consumer is not cooperating, the consumer will not be eligible for WCCC benefits. The consumer may become eligible again when he or she meets WCCC requirements in part II of this chapter, or when thirty days have passed since the consumer;
(9) Provide the information requested by DSHS's WCCC staff or the fraud early detection (FRED) investigator. If the consumer refuses to provide the information requested within a reasonable time, it could affect his or her benefits; and		(9)(8) Provide the information requested by DSHS's WCCC staff or the fraud early detection (FRED) investigator. If the consumer refuses to provide the information requested within fourteen days, it could affect his or her benefits; and (10)(9) Sign the consumer's children in and out of child care as provided Document the children's attendance as described in WAC 170-290-0138, 170-295-7030, 170-296-0520, or 170-151-460, as applicable, for that type of provider; and
(10) Sign the consumer's children in and out of child care as provided in WAC 170-290-0138, 170-295-7030, 170-296-0520, or 170-151-460, as applicable, for that type of provider.		(10) Provide to his or her in-home/relative provider the names, addresses and telephone numbers of persons who are authorized to pick up the child from care. (Other changes to this WAC are editing only.)
Reason: These changes clarify the scope of consumers' responsibilities. The requirement in new subsection (10) is moved from proposed language in WAC 170-290-0138.
WAC 170-290-0032 Failure to report changes.		WAC 170-290-0032 Failure to report changes.
If a consumer fails to report any changes as required in WAC 170-290-0031 within the stated time frames, DSHS may establish an overpayment to the consumer per WAC 170-290-0271, or the consumer may have to pay additional costs, such as:		If a A consumer's failure fails to report any changes as required in WAC 170-290-0031 within the stated time frames may cause:, DSHS may establish an overpayment to the consumer per WAC 170-290-0271, or the consumer may have to pay additional costs, such as:
(1) A higher copayment as provided in WAC 170-290-0085; or		(1) A higher copayment error. The consumer may be required to pay a higher copayment as stated as provided in WAC 170-290-0085; or
(2) Receiving an overpayment beyond what the provider is allowed to bill (see publication Child Care Subsidies, A Booklet for Licensed and Certified Child Care Providers, DEL 22-877, March 2007).		(2) A WCCC payment error. Receiving If an overpayment occurs, the consumer may receive an overpayment for beyond what the provider is allowed to bill, including billing for absent days (see publication Child Care Subsidies, A Booklet for Licensed and Certified Child Care Providers, DEL 22-877, March 2007 revised 2009).
Reason: This change clarifies the overpayment language, and makes the rule more consistent with the collective bargaining agreement.
WAC 170-290-0055 Receipt of benefits when not engaged in approved activities.		WAC 170-290-0055 Receipt of benefits when not engaged in approved activities. (A new subsection (4) is added to the rule.)
When care is approved in the situations described in subsections (1) and (2) of this section, the child needs to attend for the provider to bill.		When care is approved in the situations described in subsections (1) and (2) of this section, the child needs to attend for the provider to bill.
(1) Fourteen-day wait period. DSHS may authorize WCCC payments for a child's attendance in child care for up to fourteen consecutive days when a consumer is waiting to enter an approved activity under WAC 170-290-0040 or 170-290-0045.		(1) Fourteen-day wait period. DSHS may authorize WCCC payments for a child's attendance in child care for up to fourteen consecutive days when a consumer is waiting to enter an approved activity under WAC 170-290-0040 or 170-290-0045.
(2) Twenty-eight-day gap period. DSHS may authorize WCCC payments to ensure a child's continuing attendance in child care for up to twenty-eight consecutive days when a consumer experiences a gap in his or her employment or approved activity. The consumer may be eligible for this twenty-eight-day gap period: (a) Twice in a calendar year; and (b) For the same number of units open while the consumer is in the approved activity, not to exceed two hundred thirty hours a month.		(2) Twenty-eight-day gap period. DSHS may authorize WCCC payments to ensure a child's continuing attendance in child care for up to twenty-eight consecutive days when a consumer experiences a gap in his or her employment or approved activity. The consumer may be eligible for this twenty-eight-day gap period: (a) Twice in a calendar year; and (b) For the same number of units open while the consumer is in the approved activity, not to exceed two hundred thirty hours a month.
(3) In order for a consumer to qualify for the twenty-eight-day gap period: (a) The consumer must be currently receiving WCCC benefits; (b) The consumer must report to DSHS within ten days the loss of his or her employment or approved activity; and (c) The consumer must:		(3) In order for a consumer to qualify for the twenty-eight-day gap period: (a) The consumer must be currently receiving WCCC benefits; (b) The consumer must report to DSHS within ten days the loss of his or her employment or approved activity; and (c) The consumer must:
(i) Be looking for another job; or		(i) Be looking for another job; or
(ii) Have verbal or written assurance from the consumer's employer or approved activity that the employment or approved activity will resume within the twenty-eight-day gap period.		(ii) Have verbal or written assurance from the consumer's employer or approved activity that the employment or approved activity will resume within the twenty-eight-day gap period.
		(4) A consumer is eligible for the minimum copayment during the fourteen-day wait period or twenty-eight-day gap period.
Reason: This change clarifies the rule to be consistent with current department practice. The change is not expected to negatively impact consumers, child care providers, or the state budget. The change ensures fair application across DSHS Community Services Offices for child care providers and WCCC consumers.
WAC 170-290-0085 Change in copayment.		WAC 170-290-0085 Change in copayment. (A new subsection (1)(h) is added to this section.)
(1) Once DSHS determines that a consumer is eligible for WCCC benefits, his or her copayment may change when:		(1) Once DSHS determines that a consumer is eligible for WCCC benefits, his or her copayment may change when:
(a) The consumer's monthly income decreases; (b) The consumer's family size increases; (c) DSHS makes an error in the consumer's copayment computation; (d) The consumer did not report all income, activity and household information at the time of eligibility determination or application/reapplication; (e) The consumer is no longer eligible for the minimum copayment under WAC 170-290-0090; (f) DEL makes a mass change in benefits due to a change in law or program funding; or (g) The consumer is approved for a new eligibility period.		(a) The consumer's monthly income decreases; (b) The consumer's family size increases; (c) DSHS makes an error in the consumer's copayment computation; (d) The consumer did not report all income, activity and household information at the time of eligibility determination or application/reapplication; (e) The consumer is no longer eligible for the minimum copayment under WAC 170-290-0090; (f) DEL makes a mass change in benefits due to a change in law or program funding; or (g) The consumer is approved for a new eligibility period; or (h) The consumer is approved for the fourteen-day wait period or twenty-eight-day gap period as provided in WAC 170-290-0055. (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: This change clarifies the existing rule consistent with department practice. The change is not expected to negatively impact consumers, child care providers, or the state budget. The change ensures fair application across DSHS community services offices for child care providers and WCCC consumers.
WAC 170-290-0125 Eligible child care providers.		WAC 170-290-0125 Eligible child care providers.
(1) To receive payment under the WCCC program, a consumer's child care provider must be:		(1) To receive payment under the WCCC program, a consumer's child care provider must be:
(a) Currently licensed as required by chapter 43.215 RCW and chapters 170-295, 170-296, or 170-151 WAC;		(1) A licensed, certified, or DEL-contracted provider. (a) Licensed providers are:
(b) Meeting their state's licensing regulations, for providers who care for children in states bordering Washington. DSHS pays the lesser of the following to qualified child care facilities in bordering states: (i) The provider's private pay rate for that child; or		(i) Currently licensed as required by chapter 43.215 RCW and chapters 170-295, 170-296, or 170-151 WAC; or (ii) Meeting their provider's state's licensing regulations, for providers who care for children in states bordering Washington. DSHS pays the lesser of the following to qualified child care facilities in bordering states:
(ii) The DSHS maximum child care subsidy daily rate for the DSHS region where the child resides.		(A) The provider's ((usual daily)) private pay rate for that child; or (B) The DSHS maximum child care subsidy daily rate for the DSHS region where the child resides.
(c) Exempt from licensing but certified by DEL, such as:		(b) Certified providers are exempt from licensing but certified by DEL, such as:
(i) Tribal child care facilities that meet the requirements of tribal law; (ii) Child care facilities on a military installation; and (iii) Child care facilities operated on public school property by a school district.		(i) Tribal child care facilities that meet the requirements of tribal law; (ii) Child care facilities on a military installation; and (iii) Child care facilities operated on public school property by a school district.
(d) Seasonal day camps that have a contract with DEL to provide subsidized child care, and are:		(c) DEL-contracted seasonal day camps have a contract with DEL to provide subsidized child care; or and are:
(i) Of a duration of three months or less; (ii) Engaged in primarily recreational or educational activities; and (iii) Accredited by the American Camping Association (ACA)		(iv) Of a duration of three months or less; (v) Engaged in primarily recreational or educational activities; and (vi) Accredited by the American Camping Association (ACA)
(2) Providers other than those specified in this section shall meet the requirements in WAC 170-290-0130.		(2) An in-home/relative provider. Providers other than those specified in subsection (1) of this section shall must meet the requirements in WAC 170-290-0130.
Reason: This change deletes duplicate language and clarifies other wording of this WAC section. The requirements for contracted seasonal day camps are in DEL contracts and are not needed in the rule.
WAC 170-290-0130 In-home/relative providers -- Eligibility (Subsections (2) and (7) only)		WAC 170-290-0130 In-home/relative providers -- Eligibility
(2) Additionally, eligible in-home/relative providers must:		(2) Additionally, eligible in-home/relative providers must:
(a) Meet all applicable background check requirements in part II of this chapter; (b) Agree to provide care, supervision, and daily activities based on the child's developmental needs, including environmental, physical, nutritional, emotional, cognitive, safety, and social needs. As used in this section, "care" means that the provider must be within sight or hearing of the children in his or her care, both inside and outside; and (c) Bill only for actual hours of care provided. Those hours must be authorized by DSHS, and used by the parent for his or her DSHS approved activities or work hours.		(a) Meet all applicable background check requirements in part II of this chapter; (b) Agree to provide care, supervision, and daily activities based on the child's developmental needs, including environmental, physical, nutritional, emotional, cognitive, safety, and social needs. As used in this section, "care" means that the provider must be within sight or hearing of the children in his or her care, both inside and outside; and... (c) Bill only for actual hours of care provided. Those hours must be authorized by DSHS, and used by the parent for his or her DSHS approved activities or work hours.
...(7) WCCC consumers who choose in-home/relative care are responsible to monitor the environment and child care services they receive from their provider. Additionally, WCCC consumers are required by federal law to ensure that their children who receive subsidized child care outside of their own home are current on all Washington state immunizations, except in cases based on religious preference or medical conditions.		...(7) WCCC consumers who choose in-home/relative care are responsible to monitor the environment and child care services they receive from their provider. Additionally, WCCC consumers are required by federal law to must ensure that their children who receive subsidized child care outside of their own home are current on all Washington state immunizations, except in cases based on religious preference or medical conditions. (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: Deletes proposed language defining "care" in subsection (2)(b) as inappropriate for in-home/relative care. The change in subsection (7) does not change the intended effect of the rule.
WAC 170-290-0138 In-home/relative providers -- Responsibilities A consumer's in-home/relative provider must:		WAC 170-290-0138 In-home/relative providers -- Responsibilities An consumer's in-home/relative provider must:
(1) Provide care, supervision, and daily activities based on the child's developmental needs. As used in this section, "care" means that the provider must be within sight or hearing of the children in his or her care, both inside and outside;		(1) Provide care, supervision, and daily activities based on the child's developmental needs. As used in this section, "care" means that the provider must be within sight or hearing of the children in his or her care, both inside and outside;
(2) Report to DSHS within ten days any changes to their legal name, address or telephone number;		(2) Report to DSHS within ten days any changes to their legal name, address or telephone number;
(3) Report to DSHS within twenty-four hours any pending charges or convictions they have;		(3) Report to DSHS within twenty-four hours any pending charges or convictions they have;
(4) Report to DSHS within twenty-four hours any pending charges or convictions for anyone sixteen years of age and older who lives with the provider when care occurs in the provider's home;		(4) Report to DSHS within twenty-four hours any pending charges or convictions for anyone sixteen years of age and older who lives with the provider, including any person sixteen years of age or older who newly resides with the provider, when the provider cares for the child when care occurs in the provider's home. Background checks must be completed for all these persons as provided in WAC 170-290-0143;
(5) Bill only for actual hours of care provided. Those hours must be authorized by DSHS, and used by the consumer for his or her DSHS approved activities;		(5) Bill only for actual hours of care provided. Those hours must be authorized by DSHS, and used by the consumer for his or her DSHS approved activities;
(6) Bill for no more than six children at one time during the same hours of care;		(6) Bill for no more than six children at one time during the same hours of care;
(7) Keep daily attendance records that: (a) Show days and times the care was provided; (b) Show the consumer's full signature, or the full signature of the consumer's designee as provided in subsection (8) of this section, signing the child in and out of the provider's care; (c) Be kept for five years; and (d) Be given to DSHS or DEL, within fourteen consecutive calendar days, if DSHS or DEL asks for them.		(7) Keep daily attendance records that for five years documenting the days and hours of care provided; (8) Have the consumer sign and date the records at least weekly, verifying the accuracy of the dates and times; that: (a) Show days and times the care was provided; (b) Show the consumer's full signature, or the full signature of the consumer's designee as provided in subsection (8) of this section, signing the child in and out of the provider's care; (c) Be kept for five years; and
(8) If the consumer wishes to designate an alternate person to drop off and/or pick up the consumer's child: (a) The consumer's designee must be over the age of eighteen; and (b) There must be a signed and dated agreement between the provider and the consumer allowing the consumer's designee to leave with the consumer's child.		(89) Repay any overpayments under WAC 170-290-0268; and (910) Provide any of the records in subsections (7) and (8) of this section that are requested by Be given to DSHS or DEL, within fourteen consecutive calendar days of the request., if DSHS or DEL asks for them. (8) If the consumer wishes to designate an alternate person to drop off and/or pick up the consumer's child:
		(a) The consumer's designee must be over the age of eighteen; and (b) There must be a signed and dated agreement between the provider and the consumer allowing the consumer's designee to leave with the consumer's child.
Reasons: •     Deletes proposed language defining "care" in subsection (1) as inappropriate for in-home/relative care. •     Amends subsection (4) to clarify that the reporting requirement includes any person sixteen years of age or older who newly resides with the provider when the provider cares for the child in the provider's home, and that background checks must be completed for all these persons as provided in WAC 170-290-0143. •     As a result of a public comment on the proposal, proposed subsection (7) is amended and subsections (8) to (10) are added to clarify consumers' in-home/relative providers' responsibilities relating to attendance keeping records needed by the collective bargaining agreement. •     Deletes proposed subsection (8). This requirement is moved to a new subsection (10) of WAC 170-290-0030 Consumer's responsibilities.
WAC 170-290-0140 In-home/relative providers -- Ineligibility. (Subsection (4) only)		WAC 170-290-0140 In-home/relative providers -- Ineligibility.
(4) DSHS determines a consumer's provider is not of suitable character and competence or of sufficient physical or mental health to meet the needs of the child in care, or the household may be at risk of harm by this provider, as indicated by information other than conviction information. DSHS will use criteria, such as the following, when reviewing information about incidents, issues, reports, and findings:		(4) DSHS determines a consumer's provider is not of suitable character and competence or of sufficient physical or mental health to meet the needs of the child in care, or the household consumer's child may be at risk of harm by this provider, as indicated by information other than conviction information. DSHS will use criteria, such as the following, when reviewing information about incidents, issues, reports, and findings: (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: This change clarifies that the rule applies to care for the consumer's child rather than for the household.
WAC 170-290-0145 In-home/relative providers -- Ineligibility. (Subsection (4) only)		WAC 170-290-0145 In-home/relative providers -- Ineligibility. (Deleting subsection (4) only)
(4) It is the WCCC consumer's responsibility to monitor the in-home/relative providers' quality of care to ensure that the child's environmental, physical, nutritional, emotional, cognitive, safety and social needs are being met.		(4) It is the WCCC consumer's responsibility to monitor the in-home/relative providers' quality of care to ensure that the child's environmental, physical, nutritional, emotional, cognitive, safety and social needs are being met. (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: The language in subsection (4) duplicates wording in WAC 170-290-0030(7) Consumers' responsibilities.
WAC 170-290-0155 In-home/relative providers -- Background checks -- Subsequent steps. (Subsection (6) only)		WAC 170-290-0155 In-home/relative providers -- Background checks -- Subsequent steps. (Deleting subsection (6) only)
After DSHS receives the background information, DSHS:		After DSHS receives the background information, DSHS:
...(6) Assists the consumer in finding other child care arrangements.		...(6) Assists the consumer in finding other child care arrangements. (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: Subsection (6) relates to DSHS procedure, and is not needed in the rule.
WAC 170-290-0165 In-home/relative providers -- Background checks -- Other disqualifying information. (Subsection (1) only)		WAC 170-290-0165 In-home/relative providers -- Background checks -- Other disqualifying information.
(1) DSHS can disqualify a consumer's in-home/relative provider if the individual being checked has a background containing information other than conviction information that DSHS determines:		(1) DSHS can disqualify a consumer's in-home/relative provider if the individual being checked has a background containing information other than conviction information that DSHS determines:
(a) Makes the individual not of suitable character and competence or of sufficient physical or mental health to meet the needs of the child in care; or (b) Puts the household at risk for harm.		(a) Makes the individual not of suitable character and competence or of sufficient physical or mental health to meet the needs of the child in care; or (b) Puts the household consumer's child at risk for harm. (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: This change clarifies that the rule applies to care for the consumer's child rather than for the household.
WAC 170-290-0200 Daily child care rates -- Licensed or certified child care centers and DEL contracted seasonal day camps. (Subsection (2) only)		WAC 170-290-0200 Daily child care rates -- Licensed or certified child care centers and DEL contracted seasonal day camps.
(2) The child care center WAC 170-295-0010 allows providers to care for children from one month up to and including the day before their thirteenth birthday. The provider must obtain a child-specific and time-limited waiver from their child care licensor to provide care for a child outside the age listed on their license.		(2) The child care center WAC 170-295-0010 allows providers to care for children from one month up to and including the day before their thirteenth birthday. The provider must obtain a child-specific and time-limited waiver from their child care licensor to provide care for a child outside the age listed on their license. If the provider has a waiver to care for a child who has reached his or her thirteenth birthday, the payment rate is the same as subsection (1) of this section, and the five to twelve year age range column is used for comparison. (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: This change makes the rule consistent with language in WAC 170-290-0205(2).
WAC 170-290-0225 Special needs rates -- Child care centers and seasonal day camps.		WAC 170-290-0225 Special needs rates -- Child care centers and seasonal day camps.
(1) In addition to the rate listed in WAC 170-290-0200, DSHS authorizes special needs daily rates to licensed or certified child care centers or DEL contracted seasonal day camps according to whichever of the following is greater:		(1) In addition to the rate listed in WAC 170-290-0200, DSHS authorizes special needs daily rates to licensed or certified child care centers or DEL contracted seasonal day camps after a consumer has verified that his or her child has a special need and requires a higher level of care according to WAC 170-290-0220, according to whichever of the following is greater:
(a) The provider's reasonable documented additional cost associated with the care of the child; or (b) The daily rate listed in the table below after a consumer has verified that his or her child has a special need and requires a higher level of care according to WAC 170-290-0220:		(a) The provider's reasonable documented additional cost associated with the care of the child; or (b) The daily rate listed in the table below after a consumer has verified that his or her child has a special need and requires a higher level of care according to WAC 170-290-0220:
(2) The child care provider must verify the child's additional care needs when they request a rate above that listed in subsection (1)(b) of this section. The verification should include details about all of the child's additional needs while in child care in relevant areas such as environmental accommodations, ambulation, eating, personal hygiene, communication, and behavior.		(2) The child care provider must verify the child's additional care needs when they request a rate above that listed in subsection (1)(b) of this section. The verification should include details about all of the child's additional needs while in child care in relevant areas such as environmental accommodations, ambulation, eating, personal hygiene, communication, and behavior. (Other subsections of this WAC and the rate table following subsection (1) are unchanged.)
Reasons: •     Wording from subsection (1)(b) is moved to subsection (1) for clarity and does not change the intent of the rule. •     As a result of a public comment received on the proposal, the phrase "while in child care" in subsection (2) is deleted pending further consideration.
WAC 170-290-0230 Special needs rates -- Family home child care providers. (Subsections (1) and (2) only)		WAC 170-290-0230 Special needs rates -- Family home child care providers.
(1) In addition to the rate listed in WAC 170-290-0205, DSHS authorizes special needs daily rates to licensed or certified family home child care providers according to whichever of the following is greater:		(1) In addition to the rate listed in WAC 170-290-0205, DSHS authorizes special needs daily rates to licensed or certified family home child care providers after the consumer has verified that his or her child has a special need and requires a higher level of care according to WAC 170-290-0220, according to whichever of the following is greater:
(a) The provider's reasonable documented additional cost associated with the care of the child; or (b) The daily rate listed in the table below after the consumer has verified that his or her child has a special need and requires a higher level of care according to WAC 170-290-0220:		(a) The provider's reasonable documented additional cost associated with the care of the child; or (b) The daily rate listed in the table below after the consumer has verified that his or her child has a special need and requires a higher level of care according to WAC 170-290-0220:
(2) A family home child care provider must verify the child's additional care needs when they request a rate above that listed in subsection (1)(b) of this section. The verification should include details about all of the child's additional needs while in child care in relevant areas such as environmental accommodations, ambulation, eating, personal hygiene, communication, and behavior.		(2) A family home child care provider must verify the child's additional care needs when they request a rate above that listed in subsection (1)(b) of this section. The verification should include details about all of the child's additional needs while in child care in relevant areas such as environmental accommodations, ambulation, eating, personal hygiene, communication, and behavior. (Other subsections of this WAC and the rate table following subsection (1) are unchanged.)
Reasons: •     Wording from subsection (1)(b) is moved to subsection (1) for clarity and does not change the intent of the rule. •     As a result of a public comment received on the proposal, the phrase "while in child care" in subsection (2) is deleted pending further consideration.
WAC 170-290-0235 Special needs rates -- In-home/relative providers.		WAC 170-290-0235 Special needs rates -- In-home/relative providers.
(1) DSHS authorizes a base rate of two dollars and twenty cents an hour for in-home/relative child care when a child has verified special needs and requires a higher level of care according to WAC 170-290-0220.		(1) DSHS authorizes a base rate of two dollars and twenty cents an hour for in-home/relative child care when a child has verified special needs and requires a higher level of care according to WAC 170-290-0220.
(2) In addition to the base rate, the state authorizes whichever of the following is greater:		(2) In addition to the base rate, the state authorizes whichever of the following is greater:
(a) Sixty-two cents per hour, for a total of two dollars and eighty-two cents per hour; or (b) The provider's reasonable documented additional cost associated with the care for that child while the child is in the child care setting.		(a) Sixty-two cents per hour, for a total of two dollars and eighty-two cents per hour; or (b) The provider's reasonable documented additional cost associated with the care for that child while the child is in the child care setting.
(3) The in-home/relative provider must verify the child's additional care needs when they request a rate above that listed in subsection (2)(a) of this section. The verification must include details about all the child's additional needs while in child care in relevant areas such as environmental accommodations, ambulation, eating, personal hygiene, communication, and behavior.		(3) The in-home/relative provider must verify the child's additional care needs when they request a rate above that listed in subsection (2)(a) of this section. The verification must include details about all the child's additional needs while in child care in relevant areas such as environmental accommodations, ambulation, eating, personal hygiene, communication, and behavior.
(4) If other children in the home are also authorized for in-home/relative care with the same provider, DSHS authorizes the lesser of the following:		(4) If other children in the home are also authorized for in-home/relative care with the same provider, DSHS authorizes the lesser of the following:
(a) Two dollars and twenty cents per hour for the child who needs the greatest number of hours of care and two dollars and seventeen cents per hour for the care of each additional child in the family; or (b) An amount less than the state's rate.		(a) T two dollars and twenty cents per hour for the child who needs the greatest number of hours of care and two dollars and seventeen cents per hour for the care of each additional child in the family; or (b) An amount less than the state's rate.
Reasons: •     As a result of a public comment received, DEL is deleting the phrases "while in the child care setting" in subsection (2) and "while in child care" in subsection (3) pending further consideration. •     As a result of a public comment received on the proposal, subsection (4) was changed to make it consistent with the child care collective bargaining agreement.
WAC 170-290-0240 Child care subsidy rates -- In-home/relative providers. (Subsection (1) only)		WAC 170-290-0240 Child care subsidy rates -- In-home/relative providers.
1) When a consumer employs an in-home/relative provider, the maximum DSHS pays for child care is the lesser of the following:		1) When a consumer employs an in-home/relative provider, the maximum DSHS pays for child care is the lesser of the following:
(a) Two dollars and twenty cents per hour for the child who needs the greatest number of hours of care and two dollars and seventeen cents per hour for the care of each additional child in the family; or (b) An amount less than the state's rate...		(a) Ttwo dollars and twenty cents per hour for the child who needs the greatest number of hours of care and two dollars and seventeen cents per hour for the care of each additional child in the family; or (b) An amount less than the state's rate... (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: As a result of a public comment received on the proposal, subsection (1) was changed to make the language consistent with the child care collective bargaining agreement, pending further review.
WAC 170-290-0247 Field trip fees. (Subsection (2) only)		WAC 170-290-0247 Field trip fees. (Subsection (2) only)
(2) The field trip fee can only be reimbursed for children three years of age and older. In-home/relative and licensed family home child care providers are exempt from this subsection.		(2) The field trip fee can only be reimbursed for children three years of age and older. In-home/relative and licensed family home child care providers are exempt from this subsection. (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: Deletes language in subsection (2) pending further discussion on potential fiscal impact.
WAC 170-290-0268 Payment discrepancies -- Provider overpayments.		WAC 170-290-0268 Payment discrepancies -- Provider overpayments.
(1) An overpayment occurs when a provider receives a payment that is more than the provider is eligible to receive. DSHS establishes overpayments for providers when that provider:		(1) An overpayment occurs when a provider receives a payment that is more than the provider is eligible to receive. DSHS establishes Provider overpayments are established for providers when that provider:
(a) Bills and receives payment for services not provided; (b) Does not have attendance records that comply with WAC 170-290-0138 and chapters 170-151, 170-295, or 170-296 WAC, or for in-home/relative providers as provided in this chapter. Only attendance records meeting WAC requirements will be accepted for attendance verification; (c) Bills and receives payment for more than they are eligible to bill; or (d) With respect to licensed or certified providers only, is caring for a WCCC child outside of their licensed allowable age range without a waiver.		(a) Bills and receives payment for services not provided; (b) Does not have Bills without attendance records that support their billing comply with WAC 170-290-0138 and chapters 170-151, 170-295, or 170-296 WAC, or for in-home/relative providers as provided in this chapter. Only attendance records meeting WAC requirements will be accepted for attendance verification; (c) Bills and receives payment for more than they are eligible to bill; or (d) With respect to licensed or certified providers only, is caring for a WCCC child outside of their licensed allowable age range without a waiver.
(2) DEL's or DSHS's WCCC program staff may request documentation from a provider when preparing to establish an overpayment. The provider has fourteen consecutive calendar days to supply any requested documentation.		(2) DEL's or DSHS's WCCC program staff may request documentation from a provider when preparing to establish an overpayment. The provider has fourteen consecutive calendar days to supply any requested documentation.
(3) Providers are required to repay any payments that they were not eligible to receive.		(3) Providers are required to repay any payments that they were not eligible to receive.
(4) If an overpayment was made through departmental error, the provider is still required to repay that amount.		(4) If an overpayment was made through departmental error, the provider is still required to repay that amount.
(5) When establishing an overpayment, DSHS reduces the overpayment by the amount of the underpayment when applicable.		(5) When establishing an overpayment, DSHS reduces the overpayment by the amount of the underpayment when applicable.
(6) Absent days can be added to an overpayment when care is used or billed when the consumer was not eligible as provided in WAC 170-290-0032 or care is billed incorrectly.		(6) Absent days can be added to an overpayment when care is used or billed when the consumer was not eligible as provided in WAC 170-290-0032 or care is billed incorrectly.
Reason: As a result of a public comment received on the proposal, subsection (1) is amended to clarify that provider overpayments are established when providers bill without attendance records that support their billing. Proposed subsection (5) is deleted to make the rule consistent with current practice. Proposed subsection (6) is deleted because it duplicates similar revised wording in WAC 170-290-0271.
WAC 170-290-0271 Payment discrepancies -- Consumer overpayments.		WAC 170-290-0271 Payment discrepancies -- Consumer overpayments.
(1) DSHS establishes overpayments for past or current consumers when:		(1) DSHS establishes overpayments for past or current consumers when the consumer:
(a) The consumer is no longer eligible for benefits;		(a) Received benefits when he or she was not eligible; The consumer is no longer eligible for benefits;
(b) The consumer is eligible for a smaller amount of care than authorized, such as using care for an unapproved activity or for children not in his or her WCCC household;		(b) The consumer is eligible for a smaller amount of care than authorized, such as using Used care for an unapproved activity or for children not in his or her WCCC household;
(c) The consumer fails to report information to DSHS that results in an error in determining eligibility, amount of care authorized, or copayment;		(c) The consumer fails Failed to report information to DSHS that results resulting in an error in determining eligibility, amount of care authorized, or copayment;
(d) The consumer's provider is not an eligible per WAC 170-290-0125; or		(d) The consumer's Used a provider that was is not an eligible per WAC 170-290-0125; or
(e) The consumer's child is not eligible per WAC 170-290-0015 or 170-290-0020.		(e) The consumer's Received benefits for a child who was is not eligible per WAC 170-290-0015 or 170-290-0020.
(2) DEL's or DSHS's staff may request documentation from a consumer when preparing to establish an overpayment. The consumer has fourteen consecutive calendar days to supply any requested documentation.		(2) DEL's or DSHS's staff may request documentation from a consumer when preparing to establish an overpayment. The consumer has fourteen consecutive calendar days to supply any requested documentation.
(3) Consumers are required to repay any benefits paid by DSHS that they were not eligible to receive.		(3) Consumers are required to repay any benefits paid by DSHS that they were not eligible to receive.
(4) If an overpayment was made through departmental error, the consumer is still required to repay that amount.		(4) If an overpayment was made through departmental error, the consumer is still required to repay that amount.
(5) When establishing an overpayment, DSHS reduces the overpayment by the amount of the underpayment when applicable.		(5) When establishing an overpayment, DSHS reduces the overpayment by the amount of the underpayment when applicable.
(6) Absent days can be added to an overpayment when care is used or billed when the consumer was not eligible as provided in WAC 170-290-0032 or care was billed incorrectly.		(6) (5) If a consumer is not eligible under WAC 170-290-0032 and the provider has billed correctly, the consumer is responsible for the entire overpayment, including any absent days. Absent days can be added to an overpayment when care is used or billed when the consumer was not eligible as provided in WAC 170-290-0032 or care was billed incorrectly.
Reason: The changes to subsection (1)(a) and (b) remove procedural language. Proposed subsection (5) is deleted to make the rule consistent with current practice. The revised subsection (6), renumbered as subsection (5), makes the rule consistent with current practice and the child care collective bargaining agreement.
WAC 170-290-0280 Right to request an administrative hearing.		WAC 170-290-0280 Right to request an administrative hearing.
(1) WCCC consumers have a right to request a hearing under chapter 388-02 WAC on any action affecting WCCC benefits except for mass changes resulting from a change in policy or law.		(1) WCCC consumers have a right to request a hearing under chapter 388-02 WAC on any action affecting WCCC benefits except for mass changes resulting from a change in policy or law.
(2) Licensed or certified child care providers or in-home/relative providers may request hearings under chapter 388-02 WAC only for WCCC overpayments.		(2) Licensed or certified child care providers or in-home/relative providers may request hearings under this chapter and chapter 388-02 WAC only for WCCC overpayments.
(3) To request a hearing, a consumer, the licensed/certified provider, or in-home/relative provider: (a) Contacts the office which sent them the notice; or (b) Writes to the office of administrative hearings, P.O. Box 42488, Olympia, WA 98504-2488; and (c) Makes the request for a hearing within: (i) Ninety days of the date a decision is received for consumers; or (ii) Twenty-eight days of the date a decision is received for providers.		(3) To request a hearing, a consumer, the licensed/certified provider, or in-home/relative provider: (a) Contacts the DSHS office which sent them the notice; or (b) Writes to the office of administrative hearings, P.O. Box 424898, Olympia, WA 98504-24898; and (c) Makes the request for a hearing within: (i) Ninety days of the date a decision is received for consumers; or (ii) Twenty-eight days of the date a decision is received for providers.
(4) The office of administrative hearings administrative law judge enters orders in overpayment cases under WAC 388-02-0217.		(4) The office of administrative hearings administrative law judge enters initial or final orders as provided orders in overpayment cases under WAC 388-02-0217. Initial orders may be appealed to a DSHS review judge under chapter 388-02 WAC.
(5) To request a hearing under the seasonal child care program, see WAC 170-290-3910 and 170-290-3920.		(5) To request a hearing under the seasonal child care program, see WAC 170-290-39103860 and 170-290-39203865.
Reason: As a result of a comment received on the proposal, the rule was revised for clarity and accuracy.
WAC 170-290-0285 Receipt of WCCC benefits pending the outcome of an administrative hearing. (Subsection (1) only)		WAC 170-290-0285 Receipt of WCCC benefits pending the outcome of an administrative hearing.
(1) A consumer may receive WCCC benefits pending the outcome of a hearing if he or she requests the hearing:		(1) A consumer may receive WCCC benefits pending the outcome of a hearing if he or she requests the hearing:
(a) On or before the effective date of an action; or (b) No more than ten days after DSHS sends the consumer a notice of adverse action.		(a) On or before the effective date of an action; or (b) No more than ten days after DSHS sends the consumer a notice of adverse action.
"Adverse action" means an action to reduce or terminate a consumer's WCCC benefits.		As used in this section, "adverse action" means an action to reduce or terminate a consumer's WCCC benefits. (Other portions of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: The added wording clarifies that the definition of the term "adverse action" applies only to this WAC section, and not to the term as it may be used in other DEL rules.
Part III Seasonal Child Care Program
WAC 170-290-3540 Eligibility -- Family size. (Lead paragraph and subsection (1) only)		WAC 170-290-3540 Eligibility -- Family size.
DEL determines a consumer's family size by reviewing those individuals who live together in the same household as follows:		DEL determines a consumer's family size by reviewing those individuals who live together in the same household as follows:
(1) If a consumer is:	DSHS counts the following individuals as part of the family for WCCC eligibility:	(1) If a consumer's family includes is:	Then DEL counts the following individuals as part of the family for WCCC eligibility:
(a) A single parent, including a minor parent living independently.	The consumer and the consumer's children.	(a) A single parent, including a minor parent living independently.	The consumer and the consumer's children.
(b) Unmarried parents who have at least one mutual child.	Both parents and all their children living in the household.	(b) Unmarried parents who have at least one mutual child.	Both parents and all their children living in the household.
(c) Unmarried parents with no mutual children.	Unmarried parents and their respective children living in the household as separate WCCC families.	(c) Unmarried parents with no mutual children.	Unmarried parents and their respective children living in the household as separate WCCC families.
(d) Married parents.	Both parents and all their children living in the household.	(d) Married parents.	Both parents and all their children living in the household.
(e) A legal guardian verified by a legal or court document; adult sibling or step-sibling; nephew, niece, aunt, uncle, grandparent; or great-nephew, great-niece, great-aunt, great-uncle, or great-grandparent.	The children only (the children and their income are counted).	(e) A legal guardian verified by a legal or court document; adult sibling or step-sibling; nephew, niece, aunt, uncle, grandparent; or great-nephew, great-niece, great-aunt, great-uncle, or great-grandparent.	The children only (the children and their income are counted).
(f) A family member who is out of the household because of employer requirements, such as the military or training, and is expected to return to the household.	The consumer, the absent individual, and the children.	(f) A family member parent who is out of the household because of employer requirements, such as the military or training, and is expected to return to the household.	The consumer, the absent parent individual, and the children.
(g) A family member who is voluntarily out of the household for reasons other than requirements of the employer, such as unapproved schooling and visiting family members, and is expected to return to the household.	The consumer, the absent individual and the children. Subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section apply as well as WAC 170-290-0020.	(g) A family member parent who is voluntarily out of the household for reasons other than requirements of the employer, such as unapproved schooling and visiting family members, and is expected to return to the household.	The consumer, the absent individual parent and the children. Subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section apply as well as WAC 170-290-0020.
(h) An incarcerated family member.	The absent individual is removed from the household. We count all remaining household members. All other family rules in this section apply.	(h) An incarcerated family member parent.	The incarcerated absent individual is not part of the household count in determining income and eligibility. removed from the household. We count all remaining household members. All other family rules in this section apply.
		(Other portions of this rule are unchanged.)
Reason: The changes clarify the rule without altering its intended effect and make the rule consistent with current practice.
WAC 170-290-3555 Eligibility -- Approved activities.		WAC 170-290-3555 Eligibility--Approved activities.
(3) Travel time between the child care location and the employment location only;		(3) The SCC contractor may authorize care for: (a) Travel time between the child care location and the employment location only;
(4) Job search, of no more than five days, if the consumer's seasonally available agricultural related work ends and he or she is still eligible and continues to need child care; and		(4)(b) Job search, of no more than five days, if the consumer's seasonally available agricultural related work ends and he or she is still eligible and continues to need child care; and or
(5) Sleep time, up to eight hours per day when needed, if the consumer works nights and sleeps days.		(5)(c) Sleep time, up to eight hours per day when needed, if the consumer works nights and sleeps days. (Other subsections of this rule are unchanged.)
Reason: The change is needed for clarity, otherwise proposed subsections (3), (4) and (5) (subsections (3)(a), (b) and (c) in the final rule) would not have a clear context.
WAC 170-290-3565 Consumers' responsibilities. (Subsections (5) and (8) only)		WAC 170-290-3565 Consumers' responsibilities.
When a consumer applies for or receives SCC benefits, he or she must:		When a consumer applies for or receives SCC benefits, he or she must:
...(5) Pay, or make arrangements for someone to pay, the consumer's SCC copayment directly to the child care provider. The child care plan tells the consumer and the provider that the subsidy benefits are approved, when the subsidy benefits begin and when benefits stop, and how many hours a day benefits are approved;		...(5) Pay, or make arrangements for someone to pay, the consumer's SCC copayment directly to the child care provider. The child care plan tells the consumer and the provider that the subsidy benefits are approved, when the subsidy benefits begin and when benefits stop, and how many hours a day benefits are approved;
...(8) Provide the information requested by the SCC contractor or the department of social and health services fraud early detection (FRED) investigator. If the consumer refuses to provide the information requested within ten days, it could affect his or her benefits. If the SCC contractor determines that a consumer is not cooperating with the requested information, the consumer will not be eligible for SCC benefits. The consumer may become eligible again when he or she meets SCC requirements in part III of this chapter, or when thirty days have passed since the consumer became eligible.		...(8) Provide the information requested by the SCC contractor or the department of social and health services fraud early detection (FRED) investigator. If the consumer refuses to provide the information requested within ten fourteen days, it could affect his or her benefits. If the SCC contractor determines that a consumer is not cooperating by supplying with the requested information, the consumer will not be eligible for SCC benefits. The consumer may become eligible again when he or she meets SCC requirements in part III of this chapter, or when thirty days have passed since the consumer became eligible. (Other subsections of this WAC are unchanged.)
Reason: •     The description of the "child care plan" in proposed subsection (5) duplicates the definition in WAC 170-290-3510, making the description unnecessary. •     Deleted wording in subsection (8) is not consistent with department practice and is deleted or changed as appropriate. A consumer may reapply for SCC benefits without a waiting period.
WAC 170-290-3590 SCC contractor's responsibilities to consumers. (Subsection (7) only)		WAC 170-290-3590 SCC contractor's responsibilities to consumers.
SCC contractors are community agencies that contract with DEL to perform SCC program authorizations. The SCC contractors and their staff must:		SCC contractors are community agencies that contract with DEL to perform SCC program authorizations. The SCC contractors and their staff must:
...(7) Authorize payments only to a child care provider of a consumer's choice who meets the requirements in WAC 170-290-3750, and who allows the consumer to access his or her children whenever they are in care;		...(7) Authorize payments only to a child care provider of a consumer's choice who meets the requirements in WAC 170-290-3750, and who allows the consumer to access his or her children whenever they are in care; (Other subsections of this rule are unchanged.)
Reason: The deleted wording in WAC 170-290-3590(7) duplicates a requirement in the DEL child care licensing rules and DEL contracts with seasonal day camps.
WAC 170-290-3640 Determining income eligibility and copayment. (Subsection (2) only)		WAC 170-290-3640 Determining income eligibility and copayment.
(2) If a consumer's family's income is above the FPG as defined in WAC 170-290-0075, his or her family is not eligible for the SCC program.		(2) If a consumer's family's income is above two hundred percent of the FPG as defined in WAC 170-290-0075, his or her family is not eligible for the SCC program. (Other portions of this WAC section are unchanged.)
Reason: The words "two hundred percent of" were left out inadvertently. The change makes this rule consistent with WAC 170-290-0075.
WAC 170-290-3650 Change in copayment.		WAC 170-290-3650 Change in copayment.
A consumer's SCC program copayment could change when:		(1) A consumer's SCC program copayment could change when:
(1) DEL makes a mass change in subsidy benefits due to a change in law or program funding;		(1a) DEL makes a mass change in subsidy benefits due to a change in law or program funding;
(2) The consumer's family size increases;		(2b) The consumer's family size increases;
(3) The SCC contractor makes an error in the consumer's copayment computation;		(c) The SCC contractor makes an error in the consumer's copayment computation;
(4) The consumer did not report all income, activity and household information at the time of eligibility determination or application/reapplication; or		(d) The consumer did not report all income, activity and household information at the time of eligibility determination or application/reapplication; or
(5) The consumer is approved for a new eligibility period; or		(e) The consumer is approved for a new eligibility period; or
(6) If a consumer's copayment changes during his or her eligibility period, the change is effective:		(2) If a consumer's copayment changes during his or her eligibility period, the change is effective:
(a) On the first day of the month following the change, when:		(a) On the first day of the month following the change, when:
(i) The report is made to the SCC contractor or the information is learned by the contractor within ten or more days after the change as provided in WAC 170-290-3570;		(i) The report is made to the SCC contractor or the information is learned by the contractor within ten or more days after the change as provided in WAC 170-290-3570;
(ii) The consumer receives ten days written notice; and		(ii) The consumer receives ten days written notice; and
(iii) The copayment is increasing; or		(iii) The copayment is increasing; or
(b) On the first day of the month that the change occurred when;		(b) On the first day of the month that the change occurred when;
(i) The report is made to the SCC contractor or the information is learned by the contractor within ten days or less after the change as provided in WAC 170-290-3570; and		(i) The report is made to the SCC contractor or the information is learned by the contractor within ten days or less after the change as provided in WAC 170-290-3570; and
(ii) The copayment is decreasing.		(ii) The copayment is decreasing.
Reason: Subsections of this rule are renumbered for clarity. Subsection (1) and subsection (2) in the final rule are separate requirements.
WAC 170-290-3750 Eligible child care providers. (Subsection (4) only)		WAC 170-290-3750 Eligible child care providers.
To receive payment under the SCC program, a consumer's child care provider must be:		To receive payment under the SCC program, a consumer's child care provider must be:
...(4) Seasonal day camps that have a contract with DEL to provide subsidized child care and are:		...(4) Seasonal day camps that have a contract with DEL to provide subsidized child care and are:
(a) Of a duration of three months or less;		(a) Of a duration of three months or less;
(b) Engaged primarily in recreational or educational activities; and		(b) Engaged primarily in recreational or educational activities; and
(c) Accredited by the American Camping Association (ACA).		(c) Accredited by the American Camping Association (ACA). (Other subsections of this rule are unchanged.)
Reason: The wording in subsection (4)(a), (b) and (c) is covered in the DEL contracts with eligible seasonal day camps, and is not needed in the rule.
WAC 170-290-3790 When additional SCC subsidy payments are authorized. (First paragraph only)		WAC 170-290-3790 When additional SCC subsidy payments are authorized.
DEL may authorize additional SCC program subsidy payments for more than the basic child care subsidy daily rate when:...		DEL may authorize additional SCC program subsidy payments for more than the basic child care subsidy daily rate when:... (Other subsections of this rule are unchanged.)
Reason: This change was made for clarity and does not change the intent of the rule.
WAC 170-290-3860 Right to request an administrative hearing.		WAC 170-290-3860 Right to request an administrative hearing.
(1) SCC consumers have a right to request a hearing under chapters 170-03 WAC and 34.05 RCW on any action affecting SCC benefits except for mass changes resulting from a change in policy or law.		(1) SCC consumers, licensed or certified child care providers, and DEL-contracted seasonal day camps must follow have a right to request a hearing under chapters chapter 170-03 WAC to request a hearing and 34.05 RCW.
(2) Licensed or certified child care providers may request hearings under this chapter, chapters 170-03 WAC and 34.05 RCW, only for SCC overpayments.		(2) SCC consumers have a right to request a hearing on any action affecting SCC benefits except for mass changes resulting from a change in policy or law.
(3) To request an administrative hearing, consumers must write to the office of administrative hearings at the address in WAC 170-03-0070 within ninety days of the date any decision of an action is received.		(2)(3) Under this part, licensed or certified child care providers, or DEL-contracted seasonal day camps have a right to may request hearings under this chapter, chapters 170-03 WAC and 34.05 RCW, only for SCC overpayments.
		(4)(3) A SCC consumer, licensed or certified child care provider, or DEL-contracted seasonal day camp must make a request for a hearing as required by WAC 170-03-0050 and 170-03-0060.
		(a) A SCC consumer must request a hearing To request an administrative hearing, consumers must write to the office of administrative hearings at the address in WAC 170-03-0070 within ninety days of the date any decision of an action is received.
		(b) A licensed or certified child care provider or DEL-contracted seasonal day camp must request a hearing within twenty eight days of the date a decision is received.
Reason: As a result of comment received, the rule was changed for clarity and accuracy. DEL will propose an amendment to WAC 170-05-0050 (DEL hearing rules) to make that WAC consistent with the change to WAC 170-290-3865 (4)(a) allowing SCC consumers ninety days to appeal a decision affecting the consumer's SCC benefits, which has been department practice.

     Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.

     Number of Sections Adopted at Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.

     Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's Own Initiative: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.

     Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 45, Amended 52, Repealed 43.

     Number of Sections Adopted Using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0;      Pilot Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 45, Amended 52, Repealed 43.

     Date Adopted: October 28, 2009.

Elizabeth M. Hyde

Director

OTS-2242.5

     (2) The purpose of ((working connections child care ())WCCC(())), as provided in part II of this chapter, is to:

     (((1) Help families with children pay child care costs for approvable activities to find jobs, keep their jobs, and get better jobs)) (a) Assist eligible families in obtaining child care subsidies for approvable activities that enable them to work, attend training, or enroll in educational programs; and

     (((2))) (b) Consider the health and safety of children while they are in care and receiving child care subsidies.

     (3) The purpose of SCC, as provided in part III of this chapter, is to:

     (a) Assist eligible families who are seasonally employed in agriculturally related work to pay for licensed child care; and

     (b) Consider the health and safety of children while they are in care and receiving child care subsidies.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0001, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0001, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0001, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) Determining child care subsidy policy for the WCCC and SCC programs, including determining thresholds for eligibility and copayment amounts and establishing rights and responsibilities. DEL is also designated as the lead agency for child care and development funds (CCDF) and oversees expenditure of CCDF funds;

     (b) Contracting with community organizations to meet with families to see if they are eligible for the SCC program. SCC contractors are located in several communities across the state, and must follow the rules that DEL has established for the SCC program; and

     (c) Serving as the designated representative for the state to implement the collective bargaining agreement under RCW 41.56.028 for in-home/relative providers as defined in WAC 170-290-0003(7), and for all licensed family child care providers.

     (2) The responsibilities of the department of social and health services (DSHS) include, but are not limited to, service delivery for the working connections child care (WCCC) program, including determining who is eligible for WCCC benefits, authorizing payments, and managing payments made to providers that receive WCCC subsidies.

     (3) This allocation between DEL and DSHS is pursuant to section 501(2), chapter 265, Laws of 2006 (2SHB 2964), in which the legislature transferred all of the powers, duties, and functions relating to the WCCC program from DSHS to DEL, except for eligibility staffing and eligibility payment functions, which remain in DSHS.

[]

     (1) "Collective bargaining agreement" or "CBA" means the most recent agreement that has been negotiated and entered into between the exclusive bargaining representative for all licensed and license-exempt family child care providers as defined in chapter 41.56 RCW.

     (2) "Consumer" or "eligible consumer" means the person applying for or receiving:

     (a) WCCC benefits as described in part II of this chapter; or

     (b) SCC benefits as described in part III of this chapter.

     (3) "Copayment" means the amount of money the consumer is responsible to pay the child care provider toward the cost of child care each month.

     (4) "DEL" means the department of early learning.

     (5) "DSHS" means the department of social and health services.

     (6) "Days" means calendar days unless otherwise specified.

     (7) "In-home/relative provider," referred to in the collective bargaining agreement as "license-exempt provider," means those providers who meet the requirements in WAC 170-290-0130 through 170-290-0167.

     (8) "In loco parentis" means the adult caring for an eligible child in the absence of the biological, adoptive, or step-parents, and who is not a relative, court-ordered guardian, or custodian.

     (9) "SCC" means the seasonal child care program, which is a child care subsidy program described in part III of this chapter that assists eligible families who are seasonally employed in agriculturally related work to pay for licensed child care.

     (10) "WCCC" means the working connections child care program, which is a child care subsidy program described in part II of this chapter that assists eligible families in obtaining child care subsidies for approvable activities that enable them to work, attend training, or enroll in educational programs.

[]

     (1) In WCCC, an eligible consumer ((is one of the following individuals who)) has parental control of one or more children, lives in the state of Washington, and is the child's:

     (a) Parent, either biological or adopted;

     (b) Stepparent;

     (c) Legal guardian verified by a legal or court document;

     (d) Adult sibling or step-sibling;

     (e) Nephew or niece;

     (f) Aunt;

     (g) Uncle;

     (h) Grandparent; or

     (i) Any of the relatives in (f) ((through)), (g), or (h) of this subsection with the prefix great((, such as)) (for example, great-aunt).

     (2) ((You are not an eligible consumer when you:

     (a) Are the only parent in the household; and

     (b) Will be away from the home for more than thirty days in a row.)) Consumers may be eligible for WCCC benefits if they:

     (a) Meet eligibility requirements for WCCC described under part II of this chapter;

     (b) Participate in an approved activity under WAC 170-290-0040, 170-290-0045, 170-290-0050, or have been approved per WAC 170-290-0055;

     (c) Comply with any special circumstances that might affect WCCC eligibility under WAC 170-290-0020; and

     (d) Have countable income at or below two hundred percent of the federal poverty guidelines (FPG) (under WAC 170-290-0065).

     (3) A consumer is not eligible for WCCC benefits when he or she:

     (a) Is the only parent in the family and will be away from the home for more than thirty days in a row; or

     (b) Has a monthly copayment that is higher than the rate the state will pay for all eligible children in care.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0005, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0005, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0005, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (4) We)) A consumer must provide information to DSHS to determine eligibility when:

     (a) The consumer initially applies for benefits;

     (b) The consumer reapplies for benefits;

     (c) A change of circumstances occurs, which is either reported by the consumer or determined by DSHS;

     (d) DSHS finds out that the consumer's circumstances may have changed; or

     (e) The information DSHS has is inconsistent, conflicting, or outdated.

     (2) DSHS may accept any verification that ((you)) the consumer can easily ((get)) obtain when it reasonably supports ((your)) the consumer's statement or circumstances. The verification ((you give to us)) that the consumer gives to DSHS must:

     (a) Clearly relate to ((what you are trying to verify)) the information DSHS is requesting;

     (b) Be from a reliable source; and

     (c) Be accurate, complete, and consistent.

     (((5) We cannot make you give us a specific type or form of verification.

     (6) If the only type of verification that you can get costs money, we pay for it.

     (7))) (3) If DSHS requires verification from a consumer that costs money, DSHS must pay for the consumer's reasonable costs.

     (4) If the verification that ((you give to us)) a consumer provides to DSHS is ((questionable or confusing)) inconsistent, conflicting, or outdated, ((we)) DSHS may:

     (a) Ask ((you to give us)) the consumer to provide DSHS with more verification or provide a collateral contact (a "collateral contact" is a statement from someone outside of ((your)) the consumer's residence that knows ((your)) the consumer's situation); or

     (b) Send an investigator from the division of fraud investigations (DFI) to make an unannounced visit to ((your)) the consumer's home to verify ((your)) the consumer's circumstances. See WAC ((388-290-0025(10))) 170-290-0025(9).

     (((8) If you do not give us all of the verification that we have asked for, we determine if you are eligible based on the information that we already have. If we cannot determine that you are eligible based on this information, we deny or stop your benefits per WAC 388-290-0107 or 388-290-0115.)) (5) If a consumer does not provide all of the verification requested, DSHS will determine if a consumer is eligible based on the information already available to DSHS.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0012, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0012, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04.]

(1) If ((you are)) a consumer's family includes:	((We)) DSHS counts the following individuals as part of the family for WCCC eligibility:
(a) A single parent, including a minor parent living independently((;)).	((You and your)) The consumer and the consumer's children.
(b) Unmarried parents who have at least one mutual child((;)).	Both parents and all their children living in the household.
(c) Unmarried parents with no mutual children((;)).	Unmarried parents and their respective children living in the household as separate WCCC families.
(d) Married parents((;)).	Both parents and all their children living in the household.
(e) Undocumented parents((;)).	Parents and children, documented and undocumented, as long as the child needing care is a U.S. citizen or legally residing in the United States. All other family rules in this section apply.
(f) ((A consumer as defined in WAC 388-290-0005 (1)(c) through (i);)) A legal guardian verified by a legal or court document; adult sibling or step-sibling; nephew, niece, aunt, uncle, grandparent; or great-nephew, great-niece, great-aunt, great-uncle, or great-grandparent.	The children only((.)) (the children and their income are counted((.))) .
(g) A minor parent with children and lives with a parent/guardian((;)).	Only the minor parent and their children.
(h) A ((family member)) parent who is out of the household because of employer requirements, such as the military or training, and is expected to return to the household.	((You)) The consumer, the absent ((individual)) parent, and the children. Subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section apply.
(i) A ((family member)) parent who is voluntarily out of the household for reasons other than requirements of the employer, such as unapproved schooling and visiting family members, and is expected to return to the household.	((You)) The consumer, the absent ((individual)) parent, and the children. Subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section apply as well as WAC ((388-290-0020)) 170-290-0020.
(j) An incarcerated ((family member)) parent.	The ((absent)) incarcerated individual is ((removed from the household)) not part of the household count in determining income and eligibility. ((We)) DSHS counts all remaining household members. All other family rules in this section apply.
(2) If ((your)) the consumer's household includes:	((We)) DSHS counts the following individuals as part of the family for WCCC eligibility:
(a) Eighteen year old siblings of the children who require care and are enrolled in high school or general equivalency diploma (GED) program.	The eighteen year olds (unless they are a parent themselves), until they turn nineteen or complete high school/GED, whichever comes first. All other family rules in this section apply.
(b) Siblings of the children requiring care who are up to twenty-one years of age and who are participating in an approved program through the school district's special education department under RCW 28A.155.020.	The individual participating in an approved program through RCW 28A.155.020 up to twenty-one years of age (unless they are a parent themselves). All other family rules in this section apply.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0015, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0015, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0015, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0015, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) An employee ((of the same)) at a child care center where ((your children)) the consumer's child receives care and ((you do)) the consumer does not provide direct care to ((your)) his or her own children during the time WCCC is requested;

     (b) A sanctioned WorkFirst participant or an applicant who was terminated by a sanction review panel and in an activity needed to remove a sanction penalty or to reopen ((your)) his or her case;

     (c) A parent in a two-parent family and one parent is not able or available to provide care for ((your)) the children while the other is working, looking for work, or preparing for work;

     (i) "Able" means physically and mentally capable of caring for a child in a responsible manner. If ((you)) a consumer claims one parent is unable to care for the children, ((you)) the consumer must provide written documentation from a licensed professional (see WAC 388-448-0020) that states the:

     (A) Reason the parent is unable to care for the children;

     (B) Expected duration and severity of the condition that keeps ((them)) the parent from caring for the children; and

     (C) Treatment plan if the parent is expected to improve enough to be able to care for the children. The parent must provide evidence from a medical professional showing ((they are)) he or she is cooperating with treatment and ((are)) is still unable to care for the children.

     (ii) "Available" means free to provide care when not participating in an approved work activity under WAC ((388-290-0040, 388-290-0045, 388-290-0050, or 388-290-0055)) 170-290-0040, 170-290-0045, 170-290-0050, or 170-290-0055 during the time child care is needed((.)); or

     (d) A married consumer described under WAC ((388-290-0005)) 170-290-0005 (1)(d) through (i). Only ((you)) the consumer or ((your)) the consumer's spouse must be participating in activities under WAC ((388-290-0040, 388-290-0045, 388-290-0050, or 388-290-0055)) 170-290-0040, 170-290-0045, 170-290-0050, or 170-290-0055.

     (2) ((You)) A consumer might be eligible for WCCC if ((your)) his or her children are legally residing in the country, are living in Washington state, and are:

     (a) Less than age thirteen; or

     (b) Less than age nineteen, and:

     (i) Have a verified special need, according to WAC ((388-290-0220)) 170-290-0220; or

     (ii) Are under court supervision.

     (3) Any of ((your)) a consumer's children who receive care at the same place where ((you)) the consumer works (other than (1)(a) of this ((subsection)) section) are not eligible for WCCC payments but ((can)) may be included in ((your)) the consumer's household if they meet the requirements of WAC ((388-290-0015)) 170-290-0015. This includes if ((you)) a consumer works:

     (a) In a family home child care in any capacity and ((your)) his or her children are receiving care at the same home during ((your)) the consumer's hours of employment; or

     (b) In ((your)) their own home or another location and ((your)) his or her children receive care at the same location during ((your)) the consumer's hours of employment.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0020, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.04.055, 74.04.057, 74.08.090, 74.08A.260, chapter 74.08A RCW. 06-10-035, § 388-290-0020, filed 4/27/06, effective 6/1/06. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0020, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0020, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0020, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0020, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) Be ((treated politely and fairly without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, national origin, religion, age, gender, disability, or birthplace)) free from discrimination in accordance with all applicable federal and state nondiscrimination laws, regulations, and policies;

     (2) Have WCCC eligibility determined within thirty days from ((your)) his or her application date per WAC ((388-290-0100)) 170-290-0100(2);

     (3) Be informed, in writing, of ((your)) his or her legal rights and responsibilities related to WCCC benefits;

     (4) ((Only have your information shared with other agencies when required by federal or state regulations;

     (5) Get)) Receive a written notice at least ten days before ((we)) DSHS makes changes to lower or stop benefits except as stated in WAC ((388-290-0120)) 170-290-0120;

     (((6))) (5) Ask for ((a fair)) an administrative hearing if ((you do)) he or she does not agree with ((us)) DSHS about a decision per WAC ((388-290-0260.)) 170-290-0280;

     (((7))) (6) Ask a supervisor or administrator to review a decision or action affecting ((your)) the consumer's benefits without affecting the right to ((a fair)) an administrative hearing;

     (((8))) (7) Have an interpreter or translator service provided by DSHS within a reasonable amount of time and at no cost to ((you)) the consumer;

     (((9))) (8) Choose ((your)) a provider as long as the provider meets the requirements in WAC ((388-290-0125)) 170-290-0125; ((and

     (10))) (9) Ask the fraud early detection (FRED) investigator from the division of fraud investigations (DFI) to come back at another time. ((You do)) A consumer does not have to let an investigator into ((your)) his or her home. ((You may ask the investigator to come back at another time.)) This request will not affect ((your)) the consumer's eligibility for benefits. If ((you)) the consumer refuses to cooperate (provide the information requested) with the investigator, it could affect ((your)) his or her benefits;

     (10) Access his or her child at all times while the child is in child care;

     (11) Terminate child care without cause and without notice to the provider. Notice must be given to DSHS within five days of termination;

     (12) Not be charged by the consumer's licensed or certified provider, or be made to pay for:

     (a) The difference between the provider's private rate and the state maximum rate, when the provider's private rate for child care or the registration fee is higher;

     (b) Any day when the consumer's child is absent;

     (c) Vacation days when the provider chooses to close;

     (d) A higher amount than the state allows for field trips. If the consumer requests, and the provider has a policy in place, the consumer may voluntarily pay the difference between the amount that the state allows and the actual field trip cost;

     (e) A preschool tuition fee in addition to regular child care services; or

     (f) Child care services after the final day of care, when the provider chooses to stop caring for the consumer's children.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0025, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0025, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0025, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) Give ((us)) DSHS correct and current information so ((we)) DSHS can determine ((your)) eligibility and authorize child care payments correctly;

     (2) Choose a provider who meets requirements of WAC ((388-290-0125)) 170-290-0125;

     (3) Pay, or make a plan to have someone pay, ((your)) the WCCC copayment directly to ((your)) the child care provider;

     (4) ((Leave your children with your provider)) Only use WCCC benefits while ((you are)) the consumer is in WCCC approved activities. If ((you are)) the consumer is not in an approved activity and ((you)) wants to use the provider, ((you)) he or she must make a plan to pay the provider ((yourself)) if the provider wants payment. The provider may charge the consumer the same rate that the provider charges to other parents who are not in the WCCC program;

     (5) ((If you use an in-home/relative provider, make sure)) Pay the provider the same late fees that are charged to other families, if the consumer pays a copayment late or picks up the child late;

     (6) Ensure that care is ((being)) provided in the ((right)) correct home per WAC ((388-290-0130.

     (6) Cooperate (provide the information requested) with the quality assurance review process to remain eligible for WCCC. You become ineligible for WCCC benefits upon a determination of noncooperation by quality assurance and remain ineligible until you meet quality assurance requirements or thirty days from the determination of noncooperation.

     (7) Cooperate with)) 170-290-130 if the consumer uses an in-home/relative provider, and monitor the in-home/relative provider's quality of care to ensure that the child's environmental, physical, nutritional, emotional, cognitive, safety, and social needs are being met;

     (7) Cooperate (provide the information requested) with the quality assurance review process to remain eligible for WCCC. A consumer becomes ineligible for WCCC benefits upon a determination of noncooperation by quality assurance and remains ineligible until he or she meets quality assurance requirements. If DSHS determines that a consumer is not cooperating, the consumer will not be eligible for WCCC benefits. The consumer may become eligible again when he or she meets WCCC requirements in part II of this chapter;

     (8) Provide the information requested by DSHS's WCCC staff or the fraud early detection (FRED) investigator. If ((you)) the consumer refuses to ((cooperate ())provide the information requested(() with the investigator)) within fourteen days, it could affect ((your)) his or her benefits;

     (9) Document the children's attendance as described in WAC 170-290-0138, 170-295-7030, 170-296-0520, or 170-151-460, as applicable, for that type of provider; and

     (10) Provide to his or her in-home/relative provider the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of persons who are authorized to pick up the child from care.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0030, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0030, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0030, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0030, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) Notify DSHS's WCCC staff, within five days, of any change in providers;

     (2) Notify ((your)) the consumer's provider within ten days when ((we)) DSHS changes ((your)) his or her child care authorization;

     (3) ((Provide notice to)) Notify DSHS's WCCC staff within ten days of any change in:

     (a) The number of child care hours ((you)) the consumer needs (more or less hours);

     (b) ((Your)) The consumer's household income, including any TANF grant or child support increases or decreases;

     (c) ((Your)) The consumer's household size such as any family member moving in or out of ((your)) his or her home;

     (d) Employment, school or approved TANF activity (starting, stopping or changing);

     (e) The address and telephone number of ((your)) the consumer's in-home/relative provider;

     (f) ((Your)) The consumer's home address and telephone number; and

     (g) ((Your)) The consumer's legal obligation to pay child support((.));

     (4) Report to ((your child care authorizing worker)) DSHS's WCCC staff, within twenty-four hours, any pending charges or conviction information ((you)) the consumer learns about ((your)) his or her in-home/relative provider((.)); and

     (5) Report to ((the child care authorizing worker)) DSHS's WCCC staff, within twenty-four hours, any pending charges or conviction information ((you)) the consumer learns about anyone sixteen years of age and older who lives with the provider when care occurs outside of the child's home.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0031, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0031, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04.]

     (1) ((Paying higher)) A copayment error. The consumer may be required to pay a higher copayment as stated in WAC 170-290-0085; or

     (2) ((Paying for extra hours of care when your activity requires more than ten hours a day of care;

     (3) Receiving)) A WCCC payment error. If an overpayment occurs, the consumer may receive an overpayment for ((the number of days your child was absent including the absences the licensed/certified or DSHS seasonal contracted day care)) what the provider is allowed to bill, including billing for absent days (see publication Child Care Subsidies, A Booklet for Licensed and Certified Child Care Providers, ((DSHS)) DEL 22-877, revised 2009). ((An overpayment for absent days can occur when care is used when you are not eligible for WCCC and can be up to five days a month;))

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0032, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0032, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0032, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04.]

     (1) Treat consumers in accordance with all applicable federal and state nondiscrimination laws, regulations, and policies;

     (2) Determine ((your)) a consumer's eligibility within thirty days from the date ((you)) the consumer applied (application date as described in WAC ((388-290-0100)) 170-290-0100(2))((.));

     (((2))) (3) Allow ((you)) a consumer to choose ((your)) his or her provider as long as ((they)) the provider meets the requirements in WAC ((388-290-0125)) 170-290-0125;

     (((3))) (4) Review ((your)) a consumer's chosen in-home/relative provider's background ((information.)) check results;

     (((4))) (5) Authorize payments only to child care providers who allow ((you)) a consumer to ((see your)) access his or her children whenever they are in care;

     (((5))) (6) Only authorize payment when no adult in ((your WCCC)) a consumer's family (under WAC 170-290-0015) is "able" or "available" (under WAC 170-290-0020) to care for ((your)) the consumer's children (((under WAC 388-290-0020).));

     (((6))) (7) Inform ((you)) a consumer of:

     (a) ((Your)) His or her rights and responsibilities under the WCCC program at the time of application and reapplication;

     (b) The types of child care providers ((we)) DSHS can pay;

     (c) The community resources that can help ((you)) a consumer select child care when needed; and

     (d) Any change in ((your)) a consumer's copayment during the authorization period except under WAC ((388-290-0120)) 170-290-0120(5).

     (((7))) (8) Respond to ((you)) a consumer within ten days if ((you)) the consumer reports a change of circumstance that affects ((your)) the consumer's:

     (a) WCCC eligibility;

     (b) Copayment; or

     (c) Providers.

     (((8))) (9) Provide prompt child care payments to ((your)) a consumer's child care provider; and

     (10) Provide an interpreter or translator service within a reasonable amount of time and at no cost to the consumer.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0035, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0035, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0035, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0035, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0035, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) An approved WorkFirst activity under WAC 388-310-0200;

     (2) Employment or self-employment. ((We consider)) "Employment" or "work" ((to)) means:

     (a) Engaging in any legal, income generating activity that is taxable under the United States Tax Code or that would be taxable with or without a treaty between an Indian Nation and the United States; or

     (b) Working in a federal or state paid work study program. ((You)) The consumer may receive WCCC for paid work study and transportation hours (not for the time ((you are)) the consumer is in an unapproved activity).

     (3) Transportation time between the location of child care and ((your)) the consumer's place of employment or approved activity;

     (4) Up to ten hours per week of study time before or after regularly scheduled classes or up to three hours of study time per day when needed to cover time between approved classes; and

     (5) Up to eight hours per day of sleep time when it is needed, such as if ((you)) the consumer works nights and sleeps days.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0040, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0040, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0040, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0040, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) Up to a maximum of sixteen hours ((maximum)) per day, including travel, study, and sleep time, for the hours of ((your)) his or her participation in the following:

     (a) Full- or part-time employment or self-employment under WAC ((388-290-0050)) 170-290-0050. ((We consider)) "Employment" or "work" ((to)) means:

     (i) Legal, income generating activity taxable under the United States Tax Code or that would be taxable with or without a treaty between an Indian Nation and the United States((.)); or

     (ii) Federal or state paid work study.

     (b) VISTA volunteers, AmeriCorps, JobCorps, and Washington Service Corps (WSC) if the income is taxed((.));

     (c) High school (HS) or general equivalency diploma (GED) program until ((you reach your)) the consumer reaches his or her twenty-second birthday (((you can)) the consumer may be enrolled in a HS or GED program without a minimum number of employment hours)((.));

     (d) Approved WorkFirst activities according to WAC 388-310-0200 or 388-310-0700 if ((you are)) the consumer is a TANF applicant((.)); or

     (e) Food stamp employment and training program under chapter 388-444 WAC.

     (2) If ((you are)) a consumer is participating in an activity listed in subsections (3) through (8) of this section, ((you)) he or she may be eligible for WCCC benefits as described in subsection (1) of this section if ((you are)) the consumer is actually working either:

     (a) Twenty or more hours per week; or

     (b) Sixteen or more hours per week in a paid federal or state work study program.

     (3) Adult basic education (ABE).

     (4) English as a second language (ESL).

     (5) High school or GED completion if ((you are)) the consumer is twenty-two years of age or older.

     (6) Vocational education (Voc Ed). The Voc Ed program must:

     (a) ((Must)) Lead to a degree or certificate in a specific occupation((.));

     (b) Cannot include prerequisite classes or programs((.

     (c) Is)); and

     (c) Be offered by the following accredited entities only:

     (i) Public and private technical college or school((.));

     (ii) Community college((.)); or

     (iii) Tribal college.

     (7) Job skills training: For no more than fourteen consecutive days. Job skills training is not tied to a specific occupation but is training in specific skills directly related to employment, such as CPR/First Aid, keyboarding, computer programs, project management, and oral and written communication skills. Training offered or required by a current employer, at or off ((your)) the consumer's job site, may extend past the fourteen consecutive day limit.

     (8) Post-employment services under WAC 388-310-1800.

     (9) Child care for participation in Voc Ed is limited to thirty-six months regardless of the length of the educational program. The thirty-six months includes the months in which the following occurred at the same time:

     (a) WCCC benefits were paid to support ((your)) the consumer's participation in a Voc Ed program((.)); or

     (b) ((You)) The consumer or someone in ((your)) his or her household received TANF benefits.

     (10) WCCC may be approved for activities listed in WAC ((388-290-0040 (3) through (5))) 170-290-0040 (2)(b) through (d), when needed.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0045, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.12.340. 06-12-094, § 388-290-0045, filed 6/6/06, effective 7/7/06. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0045, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0045, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0045, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (c) After the first six months, the number of hours of WCCC you can get each month is based on the lesser of subsections (4)(b)(i) or (ii) of this section.)) (1) Consumers receiving TANF. If a consumer receives TANF and is also self-employed:

     (a) The consumer must have an approved self-employment plan in the consumer's IRP under WAC 388-310-1700;

     (b) The amount of WCCC a consumer receives for self-employment is equal to the number of hours in his or her approved plan; and

     (c) Income from self-employment while the consumer is receiving TANF is determined by WAC 388-450-0085.

     (2) Consumers not receiving TANF. If a consumer does not receive TANF at the time of application for WCCC and is establishing a new self-employment business (established less than six months):

     (a) The hours of care the consumer is eligible to receive for the first six months is based on his or her report of how many hours are needed, up to sixteen hours per day; and

     (b) The consumer's self-employment income is based on WAC 170-290-0060.

     (c) A consumer is eligible for the calculation discussed in (a) of this subsection one time only. If the consumer changes self-employment during the initial six-month period, any months left are covered by child care according to (a) of this subsection.

     (d) After the first six months of self-employment, the number of hours of WCCC a consumer can receive each month is based on the lesser of (e)(i) or (ii) of this subsection.

     (e) For an established self-employment business (established for six months or more) the number of hours of child care the consumer is eligible to receive is based on whichever is greater:

     (i) The consumer's work hours reported in his or her business records; or

     (ii) The average number of monthly hours equal to dividing the consumer's monthly self-employment income by the federal or state minimum wage (whichever minimum wage is lower).

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0050, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0050, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0050, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0050, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) ((We can authorize WCCC payments for a child's attendance in child care for up to fourteen consecutive days when you're waiting to enter an approved activity under WAC 388-290-0040 or 388-290-0045.

     (2) We can authorize WCCC payments for a child's attendance in child care for up to twenty-eight consecutive days if you or the other parent in the household experience a gap in your approved activity.

     (3) Your household may be eligible for payment described in subsection (2) of this section:

     (a) Twice in a calendar year;

     (b) For the same number of units open while you were in the approved activity, not to exceed two hundred thirty hours a month;

     (c) If you report the loss of activity or employment timely following WAC 388-290-0031; and

     (d) If you receive WCCC immediately before the loss of employment or approved activity, and:

     (i) Your employment, or the approved activity, will resume within that period; or

     (ii) You are looking for another job.)) Fourteen-day wait period. DSHS may authorize WCCC payments for a child's attendance in child care for up to fourteen consecutive days when a consumer is waiting to enter an approved activity under WAC 170-290-0040 or 170-290-0045.

     (2) Twenty-eight-day gap period. DSHS may authorize WCCC payments to ensure a child's continuing attendance in child care for up to twenty-eight consecutive days when a consumer experiences a gap in his or her employment or approved activity. The consumer may be eligible for this twenty-eight-day gap period:

     (a) Twice in a calendar year; and

     (b) For the same number of units open while the consumer is in the approved activity, not to exceed two hundred thirty hours a month.

     (3) In order for a consumer to qualify for the twenty-eight-day gap period:

     (a) The consumer must be currently receiving WCCC benefits;

     (b) The consumer must report to DSHS within ten days the loss of his or her employment or approved activity; and

     (c) The consumer must:

     (i) Be looking for another job; or

     (ii) Have verbal or written assurance from the consumer's employer or approved activity that the employment or approved activity will resume within the twenty-eight-day gap period.

     (4) A consumer is eligible for the minimum copayment during the fourteen-day wait period or twenty-eight-day gap period.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0055, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0055, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0055, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0055, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) A TANF grant, except when ((exempt under WAC 388-290-0070 (1)(h))) the grant is for the first three consecutive calendar months after the consumer starts a new job. The first calendar month is the month in which he or she starts working;

     (2) Child support payments;

     (3) Supplemental Security Income (SSI);

     (4) Other Social Security payments, such as SSA and SSDI;

     (5) Refugee assistance payments;

     (6) Payments from the Veterans' Administration, disability payments, or payments from labor and industries (L&I);

     (7) Unemployment compensation;

     (8) Other types of income not listed in WAC ((388-290-0070)) 170-290-0070;

     (9) VISTA volunteers, ((Americorps)) AmeriCorps, and Washington Service Corps (WSC) if the income is taxed;

     (10) Gross wages from employment or self-employment. Gross wages includes any wages that are taxable. "Self-employment income" means ((your)) a consumer's gross income from self-employment minus allowable business expenses in WAC 388-450-0085;

     (11) Lump sums as money ((you get)) a consumer receives from a one-time payment such as back child support, an inheritance, or gambling winnings; and

     (12) Income for the sale of property as follows:

     (a) If ((you)) a consumer sold the property before application, ((we)) DSHS considers the proceeds an asset and ((do)) does not count as income;

     (b) If ((you)) a consumer sold the property in the month ((you apply)) he or she applies or during ((your)) his or her eligibility period, ((we)) DSHS counts it as a lump sum payment as described in WAC ((388-290-0065(3).)) 170-290-0065(2);

     (c) Property does not include small personal items such as furniture, clothes, and jewelry.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0060, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0060, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0060, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) To determine ((your)) a consumer's income ((we)), DSHS:

     (a) Determines the number of months, weeks or pay periods it took ((your family)) the consumer's WCCC household to earn the income and divide the income by the same number of months, weeks or pay periods to ((get)) determine an average monthly amount; or

     (b) Uses the best available estimate of ((your family's)) the consumer's WCCC household's current income when ((you)) he or she begins new employment, or if ((you don't)) the consumer does not have an income history to make an accurate estimate of ((your)) his or her future income, ((we)) DSHS may ask ((your)) the consumer's employer to verify ((your)) his or her income.

     (2) If ((you)) a consumer receives a lump sum payment (such as money from the sale of property or back child support payment) in the month of application or during ((your)) his or her WCCC eligibility ((we)):

     (a) DSHS divides the lump sum payment by twelve to come up with a monthly amount; ((and))

     (b) DSHS adds the monthly amount to ((your)) the consumer's expected average monthly income for the month it was received and the remaining months of the current authorization period; and

     (c) ((You)) The consumer must meet income guidelines for WCCC after the lump sum payment is applied to remain eligible for WCCC.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0065, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0065, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0065, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) Income types as defined in WAC 388-450-0035, 388-450-0040, and 388-450-0055;

     (b) Compensatory awards, such as an insurance settlement or court-ordered payment for personal injury, damage, or loss of property;

     (c) Adoption support assistance and foster care payments;

     (d) Reimbursements, such as an income tax refund;

     (e) Diversion cash assistance;

     (f) Income in-kind that is untaxed, such as working for rent;

     (g) Military housing and food allowance;

     (h) The TANF grant for the first three consecutive calendar months after ((you)) the consumer starts a new job. The first calendar month is the month in which ((you)) he or she starts working;

     (i) Payments to ((you)) the consumer from ((your)) his or her employer for benefits such as medical plans;

     (j) Earned income of a WCCC family member defined under WAC ((388-290-0015)) 170-290-0015(2);

     (k) Income of consumers described in WAC ((388-290-0005)) 170-290-0005 (1)(c) through (i);

     (l) Earned income from a minor child who ((we)) DSHS counts as part of ((your)) the consumer's WCCC household; and

     (m) Benefits received by children of Vietnam War veterans who are diagnosed with ((all)) any forms ((or)) of manifestations of spina bifida ((())except spina bifida occulta(())).

     (2) WCCC deducts the amount ((you)) a consumer pays for child support under court order, division of child support administrative order, or tribal government order, from ((your)) the consumer's other countable income when figuring ((your)) his or her eligibility and ((copay)) copayment for the WCCC program.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0070, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0070, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0070, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) Determine ((your)) the consumer's family size (under WAC ((388-290-0015)) 170-290-0015); and

     (b) Determine ((your)) the consumer's countable income (under WAC ((388-290-0065)) 170-290-0065).

     (2) If ((your)) the consumer's family's countable monthly income falls within the range below, then ((your)) his or her copayment is:

((YOUR)) IF A CONSUMER'S INCOME IS:	((YOUR)) THEN THE CONSUMER'S COPAYMENT ((is)) IS:
At or below 82% of the ((FPL)) federal poverty guidelines (FPG)	$15
Above 82% of the ((FPL)) FPG up to 137.5% of the ((FPL)) FPG	$50
Above 137.5% of the ((FPL-)) FPG through 200% of the ((FPL)) FPG	The dollar amount equal to subtracting 137.5% of ((FPL)) FPG from countable income, multiplying by 44%, then adding $50
((Income)) Above 200% of the ((FPL)) FPG, ((you are)) a consumer is not eligible for WCCC benefits.

     (3) ((We do)) DSHS does not prorate the copayment when ((you)) a consumer uses care for part of a month.

     (4) The FPG is updated every year on April 1. The WCCC eligibility level is updated at the same time every year to remain current with the FPG.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0075, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0075, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-14-067, § 388-290-0075, filed 6/27/02, effective 8/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0075, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0082, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0082, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04.]

     (a) ((Your)) The consumer's monthly income decreases;

     (b) ((Your)) The consumer's family size increases;

     (c) ((We)) DSHS makes an error in ((your)) the consumer's copayment computation;

     (d) ((You)) The consumer did not report all income, activity and household information at the time of eligibility determination or application/reapplication;

     (e) ((You are)) The consumer is no longer eligible for the minimum copayment under WAC ((388-290-0090)) 170-290-0090;

     (f) ((We)) DEL makes a mass change in benefits due to a change in law or program funding; ((or))

     (g) ((You are)) The consumer is approved for a new eligibility period; or

     (h) The consumer is approved for the fourteen-day wait period or twenty-eight-day gap period as provided in WAC 170-290-0055.

     (2) If ((your)) a consumer's copayment changes during ((your)) his or her eligibility period, the change is effective on the first day of the month following ((our)) DSHS becoming aware of the change.

     (3) ((We do)) DSHS does not increase ((your)) a consumer's copayment during ((your)) his or her current eligibility period when ((your)) his or her countable income remains at or below two hundred percent of the ((FPL)) FPG, and:

     (a) ((Your)) The consumer's monthly countable income increases; or

     (b) ((Your)) The consumer's family size decreases.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0085, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0085, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-14-067, § 388-290-0085, filed 6/27/02, effective 8/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0085, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (5) If you received child care benefits within the last thirty days immediately prior to the eligibility period and you do not meet the qualifications in subsections (1) through (4) of this section, your copayment will be computed according to WAC 388-290-0075.)) (1) The minimum copayment is paid when the consumer has countable monthly income at or below eighty-two percent of the federal poverty guidelines.

     (2) First application. The consumer pays the minimum copayment when he or she first applies for WCCC, and benefits are paid. The consumer pays the minimum copayment beginning in the month that DSHS pays for WCCC child care services, and the first full calendar month thereafter.

     (3) Reapplication. The consumer pays the minimum copayment when the consumer reapplies for WCCC after a break of at least thirty days in his or her approved activity. The consumer pays the minimum copayment beginning in the month that DSHS pays for WCCC child care services, and the first full calendar month thereafter.

     (4) The consumer pays the minimum copayment when he or she is a minor parent, and:

     (a) Receives TANF; or

     (b) Is part of the parent's or relative's TANF assistance unit.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0090, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0090, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0090, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) The consumer's eligible provider (under WAC ((388-290-0125)) 170-290-0125) is caring for ((your)) his or her children; and

     ((you are)) (2) The consumer is participating in an approved activity under WAC ((388-290-0040 or 388-290-0055)) 170-290-0040 or 170-290-0055.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0095, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0095, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0095, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0095, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) ((You have)) The consumer has turned in all ((your)) information within thirty days of ((your)) his or her application date;

     (b) ((You)) The consumer meets all eligibility requirements; and

     (c) ((Your)) The consumer's eligible provider (under WAC ((388-290-0125)) 170-290-0125) is caring for ((your)) his or her children.

     (2) ((Your)) The consumer's application date is whichever is earlier:

     (a) The date ((your)) the consumer's application is entered into ((our)) DSHS's automated system; or

     (b) The date ((your)) the consumer's application is date stamped as received.

     (3) If ((you)) a consumer fails to turn in all ((your)) information within thirty days from ((your)) his or her application date ((you)), the consumer must restart ((your)) the application process. ((Your)) The consumer's begin date for benefits is described in subsection (2) of this section.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0100, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0100, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0100, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) Withdraws ((your)) his or her request;

     (2) ((Are))Is not eligible due to ((your;)) the consumer's:

     (a) Family composition;

     (b) Income; or

     (c) Activity.

     (3) Did not provide information ((necessary)) required to determine ((your)) the consumer's eligibility according to WAC ((388-290-0012)) 170-290-0012;

     (4) If a consumer turns in information or otherwise meets eligibility requirements after DSHS sends the consumer a denial letter, DSHS determines the consumer's benefit begin date by:

     (a) WAC 170-290-0095 if the consumer is a TANF consumer; or

     (b) WAC 170-290-0100 if the consumer is not receiving TANF.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0107, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0107, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04.]

     (a) Requests application information before the end date of the consumer's current WCCC eligibility period; and

     (b) Verifies the requested information for completeness and accuracy.

     (2) A consumer may be eligible for WCCC benefits for a new eligibility period if:

     (a) DSHS receives the consumer's application information no later than the last day of the current eligibility period;

     (b) The consumer's provider is eligible for payment under WAC 170-290-0125; and

     (c) The consumer meets all WCCC eligibility requirements.

     (3) If DSHS determines that a consumer is eligible for WCCC benefits based on his or her application information, DSHS notifies the consumer of the new eligibility period and copayment.

     (4) When a TANF consumer submits an application after the last day of his or her current eligibility period, the consumer's benefits begin when:

     (a) The consumer is participating in an approved TANF/WorkFirst activity; and

     (b) The consumer's child is being cared for by his or her eligible WCCC provider.

     (5) When a consumer who is not receiving TANF submits an application after the last day of his or her current eligibility period, his or her benefits begin:

     (a) On the date that the consumer's application is date-stamped as received in DSHS's community service office (CSO) or entered into the CSO automated system, whichever date is earlier;

     (b) When the consumer is participating in an approved activity; and

     (c) The consumer's child is being cared for by his or her eligible WCCC provider.

[]

     (a) The consumer's monthly copayment is higher than the state maximum monthly rate for all of the consumer's children in care under WAC 170-290-0005; or

     (b) The consumer does not:

     (i) Pay copayment fees assessed by ((us)) DSHS and ((you do)) the consumer does not make mutually acceptable arrangements with ((your)) his or her child care provider to pay the copayment;

     (((b))) (ii) Complete the requested ((reapplication)) application before the deadline noted in WAC ((388-290-0105)) 170-290-0109 (2)(a);

     (((c))) (iii) Meet other WCCC eligibility requirements related to family size, income and approved activities; or

     (((d))) (iv) Cooperate with the quality assurance review process or with the DSHS division of fraud investigations.

     (2) ((You might)) A consumer may be eligible for WCCC again when ((you)) the consumer meets all WCCC eligibility requirements, and:

     (a) The consumer paid back copayment fees ((are paid));

     (b) ((You make)) The consumer made mutually acceptable payment arrangements with ((your)) his or her child care provider; or

     (c) ((You cooperate)) The consumer cooperated with the quality assurance review process or with the DSHS division of fraud investigations.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0110, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0110, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0110, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (((2) "Advance and adequate notice," means a written notice of a WCCC reduction, suspension, or termination that is mailed at least ten days before the date of the intended action which includes the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) supporting the action, and your right to request a fair hearing.))

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0115, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0115, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) ((You)) The consumer tells ((us you)) DSHS that he or she no longer wants WCCC;

     (2) ((Your)) The consumer's whereabouts are unknown to ((us)) DSHS;

     (3) ((You are)) The consumer is receiving duplicate child care benefits;

     (4) ((Your)) The consumer's current eligibility period is scheduled to end;

     (5) ((Your)) The consumer's new eligibility period results in a change in child care benefits;

     (6) The location where child care occurs does not meet requirements under WAC ((388-290-0130(2))) 170-290-0130; or

     (7) ((We)) DSHS determines ((your)) that a consumer's in-home/relative provider:

     (a) Is not of suitable character and competence;

     (b) May cause a risk of harm to ((your)) the consumer's children based on the provider's physical or mental health; or

     (c) Has been convicted of, or has charges pending for crimes ((posted)) on the ((DSHS secretary's list of permanently disqualifying convictions for ESA. You can find the complete list at http://www1.dshs.wa.gov/esa/dccel/)) DEL director's list in WAC 170-06-0120.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0120, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0120, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0120, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0120, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) A licensed, certified, or DEL-contracted provider.

     (a) Licensed providers are:

     (i) Currently licensed as required by chapter ((74.15)) 43.215 RCW and chapters ((388-155, 388-295, or 388-151)) 170-295, 170-296, or 170-151 WAC; or

     (((2))) (ii) Meeting ((their)) the provider's state's licensing regulations, for providers who care for children in states bordering Washington. ((We)) DSHS pays the lesser of the following to qualified child care facilities in bordering states:

     (((a))) (A) The provider's ((usual daily)) private pay rate for that child; or

     (((b))) (B) The DSHS maximum child care subsidy daily rate for the DSHS region where the child resides.

     (((3))) (b) Certified providers are exempt from licensing but certified by ((us)) DEL, such as:

     (((a))) (i) Tribal child care facilities that meet the requirements of tribal law;

     (((b))) (ii) Child care facilities on a military installation; and

     (((c))) (iii) Child care facilities operated on public school property by a school district.

     (((4))) (c) DEL-contracted seasonal day camp((s that)) have a contract with ((us)) DEL to provide subsidized child care ((and are:

     (a) Of a duration of three months or less;

     (b) Engaged primarily in recreational or educational activities; and

     (c) Accredited by the American Camping Association (ACA).

     (5) An in-home/relative meeting)); or

     (2) An in-home/relative provider. Providers other than those specified in subsection (1) of this section must meet the requirements in WAC ((388-290-0130)) 170-290-0130.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0125, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0125, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0125, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0125, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (b) Have one back up provider (licensed or an in-home/relative provider).)) to care for children under WCCC, the applicant must be:

     (a) Eighteen years of age or older;

     (b) A citizen or legal resident of the U.S.; and

     (c) Meet all of the requirements listed in WAC 170-290-0135.

     (2) Additionally, eligible in-home/relative providers must:

     (a) Meet all applicable background check requirements in part II of this chapter;

     (b) Agree to provide care, supervision, and daily activities based on the child's developmental needs, including environmental, physical, nutritional, emotional, cognitive, safety, and social needs; and

     (c) Bill only for actual hours of care provided. Those hours must be authorized by DSHS, and used by the parent for his or her DSHS approved activities or work hours.

     (3) The following eligible in-home/relative providers, except those providers residing with a disqualified person, may provide care in either their home or the child's home:

     (a) Adult siblings that live outside the child's home;

     (b) Extended tribal family members;

     (c) Grandparent or great-grandparent; or

     (d) Aunt or uncle, or great-aunt or great-uncle.

     (4) All other eligible providers, including other family members, friends, neighbors, or nannies must provide care in the child's home only.

     (5) The following persons are not eligible to provide in-home/relative care under part II of this chapter:

     (a) The child's biological, adoptive, or step-parent;

     (b) The child's legal guardian or the guardian's spouse or live-in partner; or

     (c) Another adult acting in loco parentis or that adult's spouse or live-in partner.

     (6) WCCC consumers may have up to two in-home/relative providers authorized for payment during the consumer's eligibility period, plus one back-up provider, either licensed or in-home/relative also authorized to care for the consumer's children.

     (7) WCCC consumers who choose in-home/relative care are responsible to monitor the environment and child care services they receive from their provider. WCCC consumers must ensure that their children who receive subsidized child care outside of their own home are current on all Washington state immunizations, except in cases based on religious preference or medical conditions.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0130, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0130, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0130, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0130, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0130, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (c) The home where care is provided is safe for the care of the children.)) (1) When a consumer chooses in-home/relative child care, the consumer and the provider must give DSHS the following information:

     (a) The in-home/relative provider's legal name, address, and telephone number;

     (b) A copy of the provider's valid Social Security card;

     (c) A copy of the provider's photo identification;

     (d) A completed, signed and dated background check form; and

     (e) A completed WCCC application form, signed and dated by the consumer and the provider, in which they both attest that the provider is:

     (i) Of suitable character and competence;

     (ii) Of sufficient physical and mental health to be a safe child care provider and meet the needs of the children in care;

     (iii) Able to work with the children without using corporal punishment or psychological abuse;

     (iv) Able to accept and follow instructions;

     (v) Able to maintain personal cleanliness;

     (vi) Prompt and regular in job attendance; and

     (vii) Informed about basic health practices, prevention and control of infectious disease, and immunizations.

     (2) If DSHS requests it, the consumer and/or the provider must provide written medical or legal evidence that the in-home/relative provider is of sufficient physical and mental health to provide safe, reliable and developmentally appropriate child care services.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0135, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0135, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0135, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0135, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0135, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (c) Be given to us, within fourteen consecutive calendar days, if we ask for them.)) An in-home/relative provider must:

     (1) Provide care, supervision, and daily activities based on the child's developmental needs;

     (2) Report to DSHS within ten days any changes to their legal name, address or telephone number;

     (3) Report to DSHS within twenty-four hours any pending charges or convictions they have;

     (4) Report to DSHS within twenty-four hours any pending charges or convictions for anyone sixteen years of age and older who lives with the provider, including any person sixteen years of age or older who newly resides with the provider, when the provider cares for the child in the provider's home. Background checks must be completed for these persons as provided in WAC 170-290-0143;

     (5) Bill only for actual hours of care provided. Those hours must be authorized by DSHS, and used by the consumer for his or her DSHS approved activities;

     (6) Bill for no more than six children at one time during the same hours of care;

     (7) Keep attendance records for five years documenting the days and hours of care provided;

     (8) Have the consumer sign and date the records at least weekly, verifying the accuracy of the dates and times;

     (9) Repay any overpayments under WAC 170-290-0268; and

     (10) Provide any of the records in subsections (7) and (8) of this section that are requested by DSHS or DEL, within fourteen consecutive calendar days of the request.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0138, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0138, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05.]

     (e) Relationship to the direct care of a child including health, mental health, learning, and safety.)) DSHS does not pay for the cost of child care provided by an in-home/relative provider if:

     (1) The provider does not meet the requirements listed in WAC 170-290-0130, 170-290-0135, and 170-290-0138;

     (2) The provider has been convicted of, or has charges pending for crimes on the DEL director's list in WAC 170-06-0120;

     (3) DSHS has not received all background check results under WAC 170-290-0143(1) and 170-290-0150; or

     (4) DSHS determines a consumer's provider is not of suitable character and competence or of sufficient physical or mental health to meet the needs of the child in care, or the consumer's child may be at risk of harm by this provider, as indicated by information other than conviction information. DSHS will use criteria, such as the following, when reviewing information about incidents, issues, reports, and findings:

     (a) Recency;

     (b) Seriousness;

     (c) Type;

     (d) Frequency; and

     (e) Relationship of the information obtained to the direct care of a child, including but not limited to, impacts to the child's environmental, physical, nutritional, emotional, cognitive, safety, and social needs.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0140, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0140, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0140, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0140, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (2) A background check must be completed for:

     (a) All in-home/relative providers who apply to care for a WCCC consumer's child; and

     (b) Any individual sixteen years of age or older who is residing with a provider when the provider cares ((occurs outside of the child's)) for the child in the provider's own home.

     (((2))) (3) A background check must be completed for individuals listed in subsection (((1))) (2)(a) and (b) of this section at least every two years.

     (((3))) (4) Additional background checks must be completed for individuals listed in subsection (((1))) (2)(a) and (b) of this section when:

     (a) Any individual sixteen years of age or older is newly residing with a provider when the provider cares ((occurs outside of the child's)) for the child in the provider's own home;

     (b) ((We have)) DSHS has a valid reason to ((do a)) check more frequently;

     (c) An in-home/relative provider applies to provide care for a family, such as when:

     (i) A break in service occurs to the current consumer;

     (ii) There is a break in consumer eligibility; or

     (iii) A provider is currently providing care and there are no prior background results for this provider.

     (((4) We do)) (5) DSHS does not need to request a new background check for an individual in subsection (((1))) (2)(a) or (b) if:

     (a) ((We have)) DSHS has results that were received no more than ninety days prior to the current requested start date of care; and

     (b) The results indicate ((that)) there is no record.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 388-290-0143, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0143, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-14-066, § 388-290-0143, filed 6/27/02, effective 7/1/02.]

     (a) Help safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of children;

     (b) Reduce the possible risk of harm from persons who have been convicted or have charges pending of certain crimes having access to WCCC children; and

     (c) Help ((you)) consumers make informed decisions about individuals who have access to ((your)) their children.

     (2) ((We notify you,)) DSHS notifies the WCCC consumer((:

     (a) Whether we can approve the provider for the WCCC program; and

     (b) Of the following results from the background check:

     (i))), after receiving the results of the background checks, if the consumer's chosen provider is an eligible provider under the WCCC rules.

     (3) DSHS also notifies the consumer of the following results from the completed background checks:

     (a) No background information is found given current sources of information;

     (((ii))) (b) Background information is found, but the information will not disqualify the individual being checked; or

     (((iii))) (c) Background information is found that disqualifies the individual being checked.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0145, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0145, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-14-066, § 388-290-0145, filed 6/27/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0145, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (2))) DSHS obtains background information, at a minimum, from the Washington state patrol under chapter 10.97 RCW and RCW 43.43.830 through 43.43.837 via the background check central unit (BCCU).

     (2) The background information includes, at a minimum, criminal convictions and pending charges. Additional sources may include:

     (a) Child/adult protective service case information; ((and))

     (b) Civil judgments, determinations, or disciplinary board final decisions of abuse or neglect((.

     (3) We obtain background information, at a minimum, from the Washington state patrol under chapter 10.97 RCW via the background check central unit (BCCU).

     (4) Additional sources of the background information may be obtained from:

     (a) Child/adult protective service case files;

     (b) Other states and federally recognized Indian tribes;

     (c) The department of corrections and the courts;

     (d) Law enforcement records of convictions and pending charges in other states or locations if:

     (i) The individual being checked has lived in another state; and

     (ii) Reports from credible community sources indicate a need to investigate another state's records.

     (e) The individual being checked self-discloses information.));

     (c) Other states and federally recognized Indian tribes;

     (d) The department of corrections and the courts;

     (e) The individual being checked, if he or she self-discloses information; and

     (f) Law enforcement records of convictions and pending charges in other states or locations if reports from credible community sources indicate a need to investigate another state's records.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0150, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0150, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-14-066, § 388-290-0150, filed 6/27/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0150, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) Compares the background information with convictions ((posted on the DSHS secretary's crime and action list for background checks for economic services administration (ESA). You can find the complete list at http://www1.dshs.wa.gov/esa/dccel/policy.shtml.)) of, or charges pending for crimes on the DEL director's list in WAC 170-06-0120;

     (2) Reviews the background information using the following rules:

     (a) ((We)) DSHS gives the same weight to a pending charge for a crime as a conviction;

     (b) If the conviction has been renamed, ((we)) DSHS gives the same weight as the previous named conviction. For example, larceny is now called theft;

     (c) ((We)) DSHS gives convictions whose titles are preceded with the word "attempted" the same weight as those titles without the word "attempted"; and

     (d) ((We do)) DSHS does not consider the crime a conviction for the purposes of WCCC when:

     (i) It has been pardoned; or

     (ii) A court of law acts to expunge, dismiss, or vacate the conviction record.

     (3) ((Notify you whether or not we are able to approve the provider for WCCC.

     (4) Allow you, the consumer, to decide character and suitability of the provider when an individual is not automatically disqualified due to the background information from the record of arrests and prosecutions (RAP) sheet.

     (5) Deny or stop payment when the background information disqualifies the individual being checked.

     (6) Assist you in finding other child care arrangements.)) Notifies the consumer whether or not the provider has been disqualified for WCCC;

     (4) Allows the consumer to decide character and suitability of the provider when an individual is not automatically disqualified due to the background information from the record of arrests and prosecutions (RAP) sheet or other information available to DSHS; and

     (5) Denies or stops payment when the background information disqualifies the individual being checked.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0155, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0155, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0155, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-14-066, § 388-290-0155, filed 6/27/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0155, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (2) If the conditions in WAC ((388-290-0167)) 170-290-0167 (1)(a) and (b) are met, the disqualifying background of an individual sixteen years of age or over living with the provider may not permanently disqualify the provider.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0160, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0160, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-14-066, § 388-290-0160, filed 6/27/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0160, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) Makes the individual not of suitable character and competence or of sufficient physical or mental health to meet the needs of the child in care; or

     (b) Puts the ((household)) consumer's child at risk for harm.

     (2) If an individual being checked has a background containing a five-year disqualifying conviction ((posted)) for crimes on the ((DSHS secretary's list of disqualifying convictions for ESA)) DEL director's list in WAC 170-06-0120(2), ((your)) the consumer's provider is disqualified as an in-home/relative ((child care)) provider for WCCC for five years after the conviction date. ((You can find the complete list at http://www1.dshs.wa.gov/esa/dccel/.))

     (3) If an individual being checked has:

     (a) A conviction listed in subsection (2) of this section, and it has been more than five years; or

     (b) Any conviction other than those ((posted)) crimes on the ((DSHS secretary's list of disqualifying convictions for ESA we will)) DEL director's list in WAC 170-06-0120, DSHS allows ((you)) the consumer to determine the provider's character, suitability, and competence by reviewing important information such as the:

     (i) Amount of time that has passed since the conviction;

     (ii) Seriousness of the crime that led to the conviction;

     (iii) Individual's age at the time of conviction;

     (iv) Individual's behavior since the conviction;

     (v) Number and types of convictions in the individual's background; and

     (vi) Individual's verification, if any, of successful completion of all court-ordered programs and restitution.

     (4) If conditions in WAC ((388-290-0167)) 170-290-0167 (1)(a) and (b) are met, the disqualifying background of an individual sixteen years of age or over living with the provider may not disqualify the provider.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0165, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0165, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-14-066, § 388-290-0165, filed 6/27/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0165, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (c) You may be subject to an overpayment under WAC 388-290-0270.)) (1) If a consumer's in-home/relative provider is disqualified based only on the disqualifying background of a person living with the provider, then:

     (a) Child care is allowed only in the child's home away from the disqualified individual, regardless of whether or not the provider meets the other qualifications listed in WAC 170-290-0130; and

     (b) The consumer and provider sign an agreement with DSHS stating that:

     (i) Care will occur only in the child's home; and

     (ii) There is no contact between the child and disqualified person during child care hours.

     (2) The consumer may also choose to select a licensed child care center or family child care home provider, or submit an application for a different in-home/relative provider.

     (3) If DSHS becomes aware that the consumer and provider are not meeting the conditions in subsection (1)(a) and (b) of this section:

     (a) DSHS may terminate payments without notice; and

     (b) The consumer may be subject to an overpayment under WAC 170-290-0271.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0167, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0167, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-14-066, § 388-290-0167, filed 6/27/02, effective 7/1/02.]

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0180, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2005 c 518 § 207(3). 05-20-051, § 388-290-0180, filed 9/30/05, effective 11/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0180, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0180, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) The preschool rate for a child who has not entered kindergarten; or

     (2) The school-age rate for a child who has entered kindergarten.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0185, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0185, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) ((Basic child care hours, either full-day,)) Half-day ((or hourly. We)) care, which is less than one hundred ten hours per calendar month; and

     (b) Full-day care, which is one hundred ten or more hours per calendar month.

     (2) DSHS authorizes:

     (((i))) (a) Full-day child care to licensed or certified facilities and ((DSHS)) DEL contracted seasonal day camps when ((your)) a consumer's children need care for five or more hours per day;

     (((ii))) (b) Half-day child care to licensed or certified facilities and ((DSHS)) DEL contracted seasonal day camps when ((your)) a consumer's children need care for less than five hours per day; ((and

     (iii))) (c) Hourly child care for in-home/relative child care((.));

     (((b))) (d) A registration fee (under WAC ((388-290-0245)) 170-290-0245);

     (((c))) (e) A field trip fee (under WAC ((388-290-0245)) 170-290-0247); ((and

     (d))) (f) Special needs care when the child has a documented need for a higher level of care (under WAC ((388-290-0220, 388-290-0225, 388-290-0230, and 388-290-0235)) 170-290-0220, 170-290-0225, 170-290-0230, and 170-290-0235); and

     (g) A nonstandard hours bonus under WAC 170-290-0249.

     (((2) We)) (3) DSHS may authorize up to the provider's ((usual daily)) private pay rate if:

     (a) The parent is a ((mandatory)) WorkFirst participant; and

     (b) Appropriate child care, at the ((DSHS)) state rate, is not available within a reasonable distance from the home or work (activity) site.

     "Appropriate" means licensed or certified child care ((approvable)) under WAC ((388-290-0125)) 170-290-0125, or an approved in-home/relative provider under WAC 170-290-0130.

     "Reasonable distance" is determined by comparing what other local families must travel to access appropriate child care.

     (((3) We)) (4) DSHS authorizes an additional amount of care if:

     (a) More than ten hours of care is provided per day (up to a maximum of sixteen hours a day); and

     (b) The provider's policy is to charge all families for these extra hours.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0190, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.12.340. 06-12-094, § 388-290-0190, filed 6/6/06, effective 7/7/06. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2005 c 518 § 207(3). 05-20-051, § 388-290-0190, filed 9/30/05, effective 11/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0190, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0190, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0190, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) The provider's ((usual daily)) private pay rate for that child; or

     (b) The ((DSHS)) maximum child care subsidy daily rate for that child as listed in the following table:

		Infants (One month - 11 mos.)	Toddlers (12 - 29 mos.)	Preschool (30 mos. - 5 yrs)	School-age (5 - 12 yrs)
Region 1	Full-Day Half-Day	$((25.89)) 28.53 $((12.95)) 14.28	$((21.77)) 23.99 $((10.89)) 12.00	$((20.57)) 22.67 $((10.29)) 11.34	$((19.36)) 21.34 $((9.68)) 10.67
Spokane County	Full-Day Half-Day	$((26.48)) 29.18 $((13.25)) 14.61	$((22.27)) 24.54 $((11.14)) 12.28	$((21.04)) 23.19 $((10.53)) 11.61	$((19.80)) 21.83 $((9.90)) 10.91
Region 2	Full-Day Half-Day	$((26.14)) 28.81 $((13.07)) 14.41	$((21.83)) 24.05 $((10.92)) 12.03	$((20.23)) 22.30 $((10.12)) 11.15	$((17.91)) 19.73 $((8.96)) 9.88
Region 3	Full-Day Half-Day	$((34.60)) 38.13 $((17.30)) 19.07	$((28.84)) 31.79 $((14.42)) 15.89	$((24.92)) 27.46 $((12.46)) 13.73	$((24.20)) 26.67 $((12.10)) 13.34
Region 4	Full-Day Half-Day	$((40.27)) 44.38 $((20.14)) 22.63	$((33.63)) 37.06 $((16.82)) 18.54	$((28.21)) 31.09 $((14.11)) 15.55	$((25.40)) 28.00 $((12.70)) 14.00
Region 5	Full-Day Half-Day	$((29.52)) 32.54 $((14.76)) 16.26	$((25.40)) 28.00 $((12.70)) 14.00	$((22.36)) 24.65 $((11.18)) 12.32	$((19.85)) 21.88 $((9.93)) 10.95
Region 6	Full-Day Half-Day	$((29.03)) 31.99 $((14.52)) 16.01	$((24.92)) 27.46 $((12.46)) 13.73	$((21.77)) 23.99 $((10.89)) 12.00	$((21.29)) 23.46 $((10.65)) 11.74

     (i) Centers in Clark County are paid Region 3 rates.

     (ii) Centers in Benton, Walla Walla, and Whitman counties are paid Region 6 rates.

     (2) The child care center WAC ((388-295-0010)) 170-295-0010 allows providers to care for children from one month up to and including the day before their thirteenth birthday. The provider must obtain a child-specific and time-limited waiver from their child care licensor to provide care for a child outside the age listed on ((their)) the center's license. If the provider has a waiver to care for a child who has reached his or her thirteenth birthday, the payment rate is the same as subsection (1) of this section, and the five to twelve year age range column is used for comparison.

     (3) If the center provider cares for a child who is thirteen or older, the provider must have a child-specific and time-limited waiver and the child must meet the special needs requirement according to WAC ((388-290-0220)) 170-290-0220.

     (((4) Rates for Spokane County are subject to special funding allocated by the Legislature in the state operating budget. If the special funds are not allocated Region 1 rates apply to Spokane County.))

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0200, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2005 c 518 § 207(3). 05-20-051, § 388-290-0200, filed 9/30/05, effective 11/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0200, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0200, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0200, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) The provider's ((usual daily)) private pay rate for that child; or

     (b) The ((DSHS)) maximum child care subsidy daily rate for that child as listed in the following table.

		Infants (Birth - 11 mos.)	Enhanced Toddlers (12 - 17 mos.)	Toddlers (((12)) 18 - 29 mos.)	Preschool (30 mos. - 5 yrs)	School-age (5 - 11 yrs)
Region 1	Full-Day Half-Day	$((21.29)) 24.29 $((10.65)) 12.14	$24.29 $12.14	$((19.16)) 21.12 $((9.58)) 10.56	$((19.16)) 21.12 $((9.58)) 10.56	$((17.04)) 18.78 $((8.52)) 9.39
Spokane County	Full-Day Half-Day	$((21.78)) 24.84 $((10.89)) 12.42	$24.84 $12.42	$((19.60)) 21.60 $((9.80)) 10.80	$((19.60)) 21.60 $((9.80)) 10.80	$((17.43)) 19.21 $((8.71)) 9.60
Region 2	Full-Day Half-Day	$((21.29)) 25.65 $((10.65)) 12.82	$25.65 $12.82	$((20.23)) 22.30 $((10.12)) 11.15	$((18.10)) 19.95 $((9.05)) 9.97	$((18.10)) 19.95 $((9.05)) 9.97
Region 3	Full-Day Half-Day	$((30.88)) 34.03 $((15.44)) 17.02	$34.03 $17.02	$((26.62)) 29.33 $((13.31)) 14.67	$((23.42)) 25.81 $((11.71)) 12.91	$((21.29)) 23.46 $((10.65)) 11.74
Region 4	Full-Day Half-Day	$((31.94)) 40.04 $((15.97)) 20.03	$40.04 $20.03	$((31.59)) 34.81 $((15.80)) 17.42	$((26.62)) 29.33 $((13.31)) 14.67	$((25.55)) 28.16 $((12.78)) 14.08
Region 5	Full-Day Half-Day	$((23.42)) 26.99 $((11.71)) 13.50	$26.99 $13.50	$((21.29)) 23.46 $((10.65)) 11.74	$((20.23)) 22.30 $((10.12)) 11.15	$((18.10)) 19.95 $((9.05)) 9.97
Region 6	Full-Day Half-Day	$((23.42)) 26.99 $((11.71)) 13.50	$26.99 $13.50	$((21.29)) 23.46 $((10.65)) 11.74	$((21.29)) 23.46 $((10.65)) 11.74	$((20.23)) 22.30 $((10.12)) 11.15

     (2) The family home child care WAC ((388-296-0020 and 388-296-1350)) 170-296-0020 and 170-296-1350 allows providers to care for children from birth up to and including the day before their twelfth birthday. The provider must obtain a child-specific and time-limited waiver from their child care licensor to provide care for a child outside the age listed on their license. If the provider has a waiver to care for a child who has reached their twelfth birthday, the payment rate is the same as subsection (1) of this section, and the five to eleven year age range column is used for comparison.

     (3) If the family home provider cares for a child who is thirteen or older, the provider must have a child-specific and time-limited waiver and the child must meet the special needs requirement according to WAC ((388-290-0220)) 170-290-0220.

     (4) ((We)) DSHS pays family home child care providers at the licensed home rate regardless of their relation to the children (with the exception listed in subsection (5) of this section). Refer to subsection (1) and the five to eleven year age range column for comparisons.

     (5) ((We)) DSHS cannot pay family home child care providers to provide care for children in their care if the provider is:

     (a) The child's biological, adoptive or step-parent;

     (b) ((The child's nonneedy or needy relative or that relative's spouse or live-in partner;

     (c))) The child's legal guardian or the guardian's spouse or live-in partner; or

     (((d))) (c) Another adult acting in loco parentis or that adult's spouse or live-in partner.

     (((6) Rates for Spokane County are subject to special funding allocated by the Legislature in the state operating budget. If the special funds are not allocated Region 1 rates apply to Spokane County.))

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0205, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2005 c 518 § 207(3). 05-20-051, § 388-290-0205, filed 9/30/05, effective 11/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0205, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0205, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0205, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (1) Be thirteen up to nineteen years old and be under court supervision; or

     (2) Be ((under)) less than nineteen years old((,)); and((;))

     (a) Have a verified physical, mental, emotional, or behavioral condition that requires a higher level of care while in the care of ((the)) a licensed or certified facility, a ((DSHS)) DEL contracted seasonal day camp or an in-home/relative provider; and

     (b) Have their condition and need for higher level of care verified by an individual who is not employed by the child care facility and is either a:

     (i) Health, mental health, education or social service professional with at least a master's degree; or

     (ii) Registered nurse.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0220, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0220, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0220, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) The provider's reasonable documented additional cost associated with the care of the child; or

     (b) The daily rate listed in the table below ((after you have verified that your child has a special need and requires a higher level of care according to WAC 388-290-0220)):

		Infants (One month - 11 mos.)	Toddlers (12 - 29 mos.)	Preschool (30 mos. - 5 yrs)	School-age (5 - 12 yrs)
Region 1	Full-Day Half-Day	$7.30 $3.65	$6.14 $3.07	$5.80 $2.90	$5.45 $2.73
Region 2	Full-Day Half-Day	$7.36 $3.68	$6.15 $3.08	$5.70 $2.85	$5.05 $2.52
Region 3	Full-Day Half-Day	$9.75 $4.88	$8.13 $4.06	$7.02 $3.51	$6.82 $3.41
Region 4	Full-Day Half-Day	$11.35 $5.67	$9.48 $4.74	$7.95 $3.98	$7.16 $3.58
Region 5	Full-Day Half-Day	$8.32 $4.16	$7.16 $3.58	$6.30 $3.15	$5.59 $2.80
Region 6	Full-Day Half-Day	$8.18 $4.09	$7.02 $3.51	$6.14 $3.07	$6.00 $3.00

     (i) Centers in Clark County are paid Region 3 rates.

     (ii) Centers in Benton, Walla Walla, and Whitman counties are paid Region 6 rates.

     (2) The child care provider must verify the child's additional care needs when they request a rate above that listed in subsection (1)(b) of this section. The verification should include details about all of the child's additional needs in relevant areas such as environmental accommodations, ambulation, eating, personal hygiene, communication, and behavior.

     (3) If a provider is requesting one-on-one supervision or direct care for the child with special needs the person providing the one-on-one care must be:

     (a) At least eighteen years of age; and

     (b) Meet the requirements for being an assistant under chapter ((388-295)) 170-295 WAC.

     (4) If the provider has a waiver to care for a child who:

     (a) Is thirteen years or older; and

     (b) Has special needs according to WAC ((388-290-0220)) 170-290-0220, ((we)) DSHS authorizes the special needs payment rate as described in subsection (1) of this section using the five to twelve year age range for comparison.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0225, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0225, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0225, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0225, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) The provider's reasonable documented additional cost associated with the care of the child; or

     (b) The daily rate listed in the table below ((after you have verified that your child has a special need and requires a higher level or care according to WAC 388-290-0220)):

		Infants (Birth - 11 mos.)	Toddlers (12 - 29 mos.)	Preschool (30 mos. - 5 yrs)	School-age (5 - 11 yrs)
Region 1	Full-Day Half-Day	$6.00 $3.00	$5.40 $2.70	$5.40 $2.70	$4.80 $2.40
Region 2	Full-Day Half-Day	$6.00 $3.00	$5.70 $2.85	$5.10 $2.55	$5.10 $2.55
Region 3	Full-Day Half-Day	$8.70 $4.35	$7.50 $3.75	$6.60 $3.30	$6.00 $3.00
Region 4	Full-Day Half-Day	$9.00 $4.50	$8.90 $4.45	$7.50 $3.75	$7.20 $3.60
Region 5	Full-Day Half-Day	$6.60 $3.30	$6.00 $3.00	$5.70 $2.85	$5.10 $2.55
Region 6	Full-Day Half-Day	$6.60 $3.30	$6.00 $3.00	$6.00 $3.00	$5.70 $2.85

     (2) A family home child care provider must verify the child's additional care needs when they request a rate above that listed in subsection (1)(b) of this section. The verification should include details about all of the child's additional needs in relevant areas such as environmental accommodations, ambulation, eating, personal hygiene, communication, and behavior.

     (3) If the provider has a waiver to care for a child who:

     (a) Is twelve years or older; and

     (b) Has special needs according to WAC ((388-290-0220)) 170-290-0220, ((we)) DSHS authorizes the special needs payment rate as described in subsection (1) of this section using the five to eleven year age range for comparison.

     (4) If a provider is requesting one-on-one supervision/direct care for the child with special needs((.)), the person providing the one-on-one care must be:

     (a) At least eighteen years old; and

     (b) Meet the requirements for being an assistant under chapter ((388-155)) 170-296 WAC.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0230, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0230, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0230, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0230, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (2) In addition to the base rate, ((we)) the state authorizes whichever of the following is greater:

     (a) Sixty-two cents per hour, for a total of two dollars and eighty-two cents per hour; or

     (b) The provider's reasonable documented additional cost associated with the care for that child.

     (3) The in-home/relative provider must verify the child's additional care needs when they request a rate above that listed in subsection (((1))) (2)(a) of this section. The verification must include details about all the child's additional needs in relevant areas such as environmental accommodations, ambulation, eating, personal hygiene, communication, and behavior.

     (4) If other children in the home are also authorized for in-home/relative care with the same provider, ((we)) DSHS authorizes((:

     (a))) two dollars and ((six cents an hour for the child needing the most care; and

     (b) One dollar and three cents an hour for any additional children)) twenty cents per hour for the child who needs the greatest number of hours of care and two dollars and seventeen cents per hour for the care of each additional child in the family.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0235, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0235, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0235, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a))) two dollars and ((six)) twenty cents per hour for the child who needs the greatest number of hours of care and ((one)) two dollars and ((three)) seventeen cents per hour for the care of each additional child in the family((; or

     (b) The provider's usual hourly rate for that care)).

     (2) ((We)) DSHS may pay above the maximum hourly rate for children who have special needs under WAC ((388-290-0235)) 170-290-0235.

     (3) ((We)) DSHS makes the WCCC payment directly to ((your)) a consumer's eligible provider.

     (4) When appropriate, ((we)) DSHS pays ((your ())the employer's(())) share of the following:

     (a) Social Security and medicare taxes (FICA) up to the wage limit;

     (b) Federal Unemployment Taxes (FUTA); and    

     (c) State unemployment taxes (SUTA) when applicable.

     (5) If an in-home/relative ((child care)) provider receives less than the wage base limit per family in a calendar year, ((we)) DSHS refunds all withheld taxes to the provider.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0240, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0240, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0240, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0240, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (b) The children change child care providers and the new provider meets subsection (1)(a) and (b) of this section.)) when:

     (a) A child is first enrolled by the consumer for child care with a provider;

     (b) A consumer enrolls their child with a new child care provider during their eligibility period; or

     (c) A child has more than a sixty-day break in child care services with the same provider, and it is the provider's policy to charge all parents this fee when there is a break in service.

     (2) A registration fee will be paid only once per calendar year for children who are cared for by the same provider, even if the provider receives subsidy payments under different subsidy programs during this time period for the enrolled children, unless there is a break of sixty days or more as provided in subsection (1)(c) of this section.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0245, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0245, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.13.085. 02-12-069, § 388-290-0245, filed 5/31/02, effective 7/1/02. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050 and C.F.R. Parts 98 and 99 (Child Care Development Fund Rules). 02-01-135, § 388-290-0245, filed 12/19/01, effective 1/19/02.]

     (a) Admission;

     (b) Transportation (not to include the provider's gas and insurance); and

     (c) The cost of hiring a nonemployee to provide an in-house field trip activity.

     (2) The field trip fee can only be reimbursed for children three years of age and older.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0247, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0247, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04.]

     (a) The provider is licensed or certified;

     (b) The provider provides at least forty hours of nonstandard hours care during one month; and

     (c) The total cost of the NSHB to the state does not exceed the amount appropriated for this purpose by the legislature for the current state fiscal year.

     (2) Nonstandard hours are defined as:

     (a) Weekdays before 6 a.m. or after 6 p.m.;

     (b) Saturdays and Sundays; and

     (c) Legal holidays, as defined in RCW 1.16.050.

[]

     (2) For providers or consumers not covered under WAC 170-290-0267 through 170-290-0275, payment discrepancies are subject to chapter 388-410 WAC (benefit errors).

     (3) For providers covered under the collective bargaining agreement, all other payment discrepancy issues are covered under WAC 170-290-0275.

[]

     (2) Underpayment requests will only be considered by DSHS if the provider submitted his or her original invoice for payment to DSHS no later than twelve months after the date of service.

[]

     (a) Bills and receives payment for services not provided;

     (b) Bills without attendance records that support their billing;

     (c) Bills and receives payment for more than they are eligible to bill; or

     (d) With respect to licensed or certified providers only, is caring for a WCCC child outside their licensed allowable age range without a waiver.

     (2) DEL's or DSHS's WCCC program staff may request documentation from a provider when preparing to establish an overpayment. The provider has fourteen consecutive calendar days to supply any requested documentation.

     (3) Providers are required to repay any payments that they were not eligible to receive.

     (4) If an overpayment was made through departmental error, the provider is still required to repay that amount.

[]

     (1) Meets all WCCC eligibility requirements during the time he or she is claiming an underpayment; and

     (2) Verifies all copayments made by the consumer to the provider during the time the consumer is claiming an underpayment.

[]

     (((1) You are no longer)) (a) Received benefits when he or she was not eligible ((or you are eligible for a smaller amount of care, such as using));

     (b) Used care for an unapproved activity or for children not in ((your)) his or her WCCC household;

     (((2) You fail)) (c) Failed to report information to ((us that results)) DSHS resulting in an error in ((our determination of:

     (a) Your)) determining eligibility((;

     (b) The)), amount of care authorized((;)), or

     (((c) The amount of your)) copayment((.));

     (((3) Your)) (d) Used a provider ((is)) that was not ((an)) eligible ((provider)) per WAC ((388-290-0140)) 170-290-0125; or

     (((4) Your)) (e) Received benefits for a child ((is)) who was not eligible per WAC ((388-290-0015 or 388-290-0020)) 170-290-0015 or 170-290-0020.

     (2) DEL's or DSHS's staff may request documentation from a consumer when preparing to establish an overpayment. The consumer has fourteen consecutive calendar days to supply any requested documentation.

     (3) Consumers are required to repay any benefits paid by DSHS that they were not eligible to receive.

     (4) If an overpayment was made through departmental error, the consumer is still required to repay that amount.

     (5) If a consumer is not eligible under WAC 170-290-0032 and the provider has billed correctly, the consumer is responsible for the entire overpayment, including any absent days.

[08-08-047, recodified as § 170-290-0271, filed 3/27/08, effective 3/27/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, and 74.13.085. 05-22-078, § 388-290-0271, filed 10/31/05, effective 12/1/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 74.04.050, 74.12.340, 74.13.085, and 2003 1st sp.s. c 25. 04-08-021 and 04-08-134, § 388-290-0271, filed 3/29/04 and 4/7/04, effective 5/28/04.]

     (2) For in-home/relative and licensed family home child care providers, disputes regarding underpayments shall be grievable.

     (3) Beginning July 1, 2007, there are different time frames for how far back a payment discrepancy may be corrected. The time frames, as provided in this subsection are based on:

     (a) When services were provided;

     (b) When the request for the underpayment was made; and

     (c) The type of provider: Family home or in-home/relative provider.

     (4) Family home and in-home/relative providers must submit a claim for payment no later than twelve months after the date of service. "Submitting a claim for payment" means turning the original invoice in to DSHS for services no later than twelve months after the date of service. If the claim for payment is made within the twelve-month period, the time limits for correcting payment errors are:

     (a) Two years back if the error is on rates paid by age and/or region, unless discovered by a federal audit. This means the provider has up to two years after the date of service to ask for a corrected payment; or

     (b) Three years back if the error was for any other reason, including those discovered by a federal audit. This means the provider has up to three years after the date of service to ask for a corrected payment.

[]

     (2) Licensed or certified child care providers or in-home/relative providers may request hearings under chapter 388-02 WAC only for WCCC overpayments.

     (3) To request a hearing, a consumer, the licensed/certified provider, or in-home/relative provider:

     (a) Contacts the DSHS office which sent them the notice; or

     (b) Writes to the office of administrative hearings, P.O. Box 42489, Olympia, WA 98504-2489; and

     (c) Makes the request for a hearing within:

     (i) Ninety days of the date a decision is received for consumers; or

     (ii) Twenty-eight days of the date a decision is received for providers.

     (4) The office of administrative hearings administrative law judge enters initial or final orders as provided in WAC 388-02-0217. Initial orders may be appealed to a DSHS review judge under chapter 388-02 WAC.

     (5) To request a hearing under the seasonal child care program, see WAC 170-290-3860 and 170-290-3865.

[]

     (a) On or before the effective date of an action; or

     (b) No more than ten days after DSHS sends the consumer a notice of adverse action.

     As used in this section, "adverse action" means an action to reduce or terminate a consumer's WCCC benefits.

     (2) If a consumer loses a hearing, any WCCC benefit that a consumer uses between the date of the adverse action and the date of the hearing decision is an overpayment to the consumer.

     (3) A consumer may not receive WCCC benefits pending the outcome of a hearing if he or she requests payment to a provider who is not eligible under WAC 170-290-0125.

     (4) A consumer may receive WCCC benefits for another eligible provider, pending the outcome of the hearing.

[]

[]

     (1) "Application interview date" means the first date a consumer, as defined in WAC 170-290-0003, meets with the SCC contractor to see if the consumer is eligible for subsidy benefits.

     (2) "Child care plan" means a state form filled out by the SCC contractor that tells the consumer and provider:

     (a) When benefits start and end;

     (b) The amount of the copayment; and

     (c) The approved hours of care.

     (3) "SCC contractor" means the agency that DEL has contracted with to meet with families to see if they are eligible for the seasonal child care program. SCC contractors are located in several communities across the state. SCC contractors are responsible to follow the SCC rules that DEL has established.

     (4) "Seasonally available labor" or "seasonally available agricultural related work" means labor that is available only in a specific season during part of the calendar year. The labor is directly related to the cultivation, production, harvesting or processing of fruit trees or crops.

     (5) "Waiting list" means a list of families who are currently working and waiting for seasonal child care subsidies when funding is not available to meet the requests from all eligible families.

[]

     (a) Parent, either biological or adopted;

     (b) Stepparent;

     (c) Legal guardian as verified by a legal or court document;

     (d) Adult sibling or step-sibling;

     (e) Aunt;

     (f) Uncle;

     (g) Niece or nephew;

     (h) Grandparent; or

     (i) Any of the above relatives in (e), (f), or (h) of this subsection, with the prefix "great," such as great-aunt.

     (2) Consumers may be eligible for SCC benefits if they:

     (a) Meet eligibility requirements in this chapter;

     (b) Participate in an approved activity under WAC 170-290-3555; and

     (c) Have countable income at or below two hundred percent of the federal poverty guidelines (FPG) described in WAC 170-290-3640.

     (3) Consumers are not eligible for SCC benefits if they:

     (a) Have a copayment, under WAC 170-290-0075, that is higher than the maximum monthly state rate for all of the consumer's children in care;

     (b) Were employed with one employer more than eleven months in the previous twelve months;

     (c) Are receiving TANF benefits; or

     (d) Are the only parent in the household and will be away from the home for more than thirty days in a row.

[]

     (a) The consumer initially applies for benefits;

     (b) The consumer reapplies for benefits; or

     (c) A change of circumstances occurs.

     (2) The SCC contractor may accept any verification that the consumer can easily obtain when it reasonably supports the consumer's statement of his or her circumstances. The verification that the consumer gives to the SCC contractor must:

     (a) Clearly relate to information the SCC contractor is requesting;

     (b) Be from a reliable source; and

     (c) Be accurate, complete, current and consistent.

     (3) The SCC contractor will accept a variety of forms of verification to show the consumer is eligible. For example, any of the following documents are accepted to show the child is in the home: School records, immunization records or birth certificates, or other type of documents.

     (4) If the verification that a consumer gives to the SCC contractor is inconsistent, conflicting, outdated or confusing, the SCC contractor may:

     (a) Ask a consumer to provide the SCC contractor with more information or documentation or provide a collateral contact (a "collateral contact" is a statement from someone outside of the consumer's residence that knows the consumer's situation); or

     (b) Ask for an investigator from the DSHS division of fraud investigations (DFI) to make an unannounced visit to the consumer's home to verify the consumer's circumstances.

     (5) If a consumer does not provide the SCC contractor with all of the verification that the SCC contractor has requested, the SCC contractor will determine if the consumer is eligible based on the information already available to the SCC contractor.

[]

(1) If a consumer's family includes:	Then DEL counts the following individuals as part of the family for SCC program eligibility:
(a) A single parent, including a minor parent, living independently or residing in her/his parent's home with her/his children.	The consumer and the consumer's children.
(b) Unmarried parents living together who have at least one mutual child.	Both parents and all their children living in the household.
(c) Unmarried parents living together with no mutual children.	Each parent and their own children, as separate families.
(d) Married parents living together.	Both parents and all their children living in the household.
(e) A legal guardian verified by a legal or court document; adult sibling or step-sibling; nephew or niece; aunt; uncle; grandparent; or great-aunt, great-uncle, or great-grandparent.	Only the children and their income.
(f) A parent who is voluntarily out of the household for reasons other than employment, such as visiting a family member.	The consumer, the absent parent and the children.
(g) A parent who is out of the household because of employer requirements, such as working in a different community, and is expected to return to the household.	The consumer, the absent parent, and the children. Subsection (1)(b) and (d) of this section apply.
(h) An incarcerated parent.	The incarcerated person is not part of the household count in determining income and eligibility. DEL counts all remaining household members. All other family rules in this section apply.
(2) If the consumer's household includes:	Then in addition, DEL counts the sibling as part of the family for SCC program eligibility as follows:
(a) Eighteen year old siblings of the children who require care and are enrolled in secondary education or general equivalency diploma (GED) program.	The eighteen year olds (unless they are a parent themselves), until they turn nineteen or complete high school/GED, whichever comes first. All other family rules in this section apply.
(b) Siblings of the children requiring care who are up to twenty-one years old who are participating in a program through the school district's special education department under RCW 28A.155.020.	The person participating in the approved program through RCW 28A.155.020 up to twenty-one years of age (unless they are a parent themselves). All other family rules in this section apply.

[]

     (a) Has children living with them in Washington state who are:

     (i) Younger than age thirteen; or

     (ii) Thirteen to nineteen years old and under court supervision; or

     (iii) Less than nineteen years old and have a verified special need according to WAC 170-290-0220;

     (b) Is a parent in a two-parent family in which both parents work in seasonally available agricultural related work.

     (2) If both parents are not employed in seasonally agricultural related work, the consumer may be eligible for SCC only when the other parent is "unable" to provide care for the children because of physical or mental restrictions. If a consumer claims one parent is unable to care for the children, the consumer must provide written documentation from a licensed medical or mental health professional that states the:

     (a) Reason the parent is unable to care for the children; and

     (b) Expected duration and severity of the condition that keeps the parent from caring for the children.

     (3) For the previous twelve months before applying for SCC benefits, fifty percent or more of the family's earned income must have come from seasonally available agricultural related work.

[]

     (a) Washington state; or

     (b) A bordering state within forty miles of Washington state.

     (2) When the consumer is part of a two-parent family, both parents must be employed as described in subsection (1) of this section;

     (3) The SCC contractor may authorize care for:

     (a) Travel time between the child care location and the employment location only;

     (b) Job search, of no more than five days, if the consumer's seasonally available agricultural related work ends and he or she is still eligible and continues to need child care; or

     (c) Sleep time, up to eight hours per day when needed, if the consumer works nights and sleeps days.

[]

     (1) Be free from discrimination in accordance with all applicable federal and state nondiscrimination laws, regulations and policies;

     (2) Have the consumer's application accepted and acted upon within thirty days;

     (3) Be informed, in writing, of the consumer's legal rights and responsibilities related to SCC benefits;

     (4) Have the consumer's information shared with other agencies only when required by federal or state regulations;

     (5) Be allowed to choose a provider as long as the provider meets requirements in WAC 170-290-3750;

     (6) Receive a written notice at least ten days before changes are made to lower or stop benefits except as stated in WAC 170-290-3730;

     (7) Ask for an administrative hearing if the consumer does not agree with a decision per WAC 170-290-3860;

     (8) Ask to speak to the SCC contractor's supervisor or administrator to review a decision or action affecting the consumer's benefits without affecting the consumer's right to an administrative hearing;

     (9) Have interpreter or translator services provided by the SCC contractor within a reasonable amount of time and at no cost to the consumer;

     (10) Refuse to speak to a fraud early detection (FRED) investigator from the department of social and health services division of fraud investigations when they ask to come into your home. This request will not affect eligibility for SCC program subsidies. If the consumer refuses to cooperate with the investigator at a later date, it could affect his or her benefits;

     (11) Access his or her child at all times while the child is in child care;

     (12) Terminate child care without cause and without notice to the provider. Notice must be given to the SCC contractor within five days of termination; and

     (13) Not be charged by the consumer's licensed or certified provider, or be made to pay, for:

     (a) The difference between their private rate and the state maximum child care subsidy rate, when their private rate for child care or the registration fee is higher;

     (b) Any day when the consumer's child is absent;

     (c) Vacation days when the provider chooses to close;

     (d) A higher amount than the state allows for field trips;

     (e) A preschool tuition fee in addition to regular child care services; or

     (f) Child care services after the final day of care, when the provider chooses to stop caring for the consumer's children.

[]

     (1) Give the SCC contractor correct and current information so that the SCC contractor can determine the consumer's eligibility and authorize child care payments correctly;

     (2) Choose a provider who meets requirements of WAC 170-292-3750;

     (3) Leave the consumer's children with his or her provider while the consumer is in SCC approved activities. If the consumer is not in an approved activity and wants to use the provider, he or she must pay the provider if the provider wants payment;

     (4) Pay for additional child care that exceeds the authorization based on the same fees that are charged to other families;

     (5) Pay, or make arrangements for someone to pay, the consumer's SCC copayment directly to the child care provider;

     (6) Pay the provider the same late fees that are charged to other families, if the consumer pays a copayment late or picks up the child late;

     (7) Sign his or her children in and out of child care as provided in WAC 170-295-7030, 170-296-0520, or 170-151-460, as applicable, for that type of provider; and

     (8) Provide the information requested by the SCC contractor or the department of social and health services fraud early detection (FRED) investigator. If the consumer refuses to provide the information requested within fourteen days, it could affect his or her benefits. If the SCC contractor determines that a consumer is not cooperating by supplying the requested information, the consumer will not be eligible for SCC benefits. The consumer may become eligible again when he or she meets SCC requirements in part III of this chapter.

[]

     (1) Notify the SCC contractor, within five days, of any change in providers;

     (2) Notify his or her provider within ten days when the SCC contractor changes his or her child care authorization;

     (3) Notify the SCC contractor within ten days of any change in the consumer's:

     (a) Number of child care hours needed (more or less hours);

     (b) Child becoming eligible for migrant Head Start or another child care program;

     (c) Household income, including any new receipt of a TANF grant or child support increases or decreases;

     (d) Household size such as any family member moving in or out of his or her home;

     (e) Employment hours such as starting, stopping or changing employers;

     (f) Home address and telephone number; or

     (g) Child support payments made by the consumer.

[]

     (2) The consumer may receive an overpayment for what the provider is allowed to bill to include billing for absent days (see publication Child Care Subsidies, A Booklet for Licensed and Certified Child Care Providers, DEL 22-877, revised 2009).

[]

     (1) Treat consumers in accordance with all applicable federal and state nondiscrimination laws, regulations and policies;

     (2) Authorize SCC program subsidies for a consumer's children based on eligibility criteria established by DEL, as defined in this chapter;

     (3) Ask if a consumer has received, or is currently receiving, child care services from another subsidy program; and if he or she has received a copy of his or her termination letter from that program;

     (4) Ask if a consumer has applied, and been denied, for working connections child care (WCCC); and if he or she has, verify his or her denial from that program;

     (5) Complete intake documents in a consumer's presence, based on information he or she provides;

     (6) Accept a variety of forms of verification and may not specify the type of documentation required;

     (7) Authorize payments only to a child care provider of a consumer's choice who meets the requirements in WAC 170-290-3750;

     (8) Authorize payments only when no adult in a consumer's family (under WAC 170-290-3540) is able or available to care for the consumer's children as defined in WAC 170-290-3550;

     (9) Give a consumer a SCC program approved child care plan in order to enroll his or her children in licensed or certified child care;

     (10) Inform a consumer of:

     (a) The consumer's copayment amount as determined in WAC 170-290-3620 and defined in WAC 170-290-0075;

     (b) The consumer's rights and responsibilities under the SCC program when he or she applies or reapplies;

     (c) The types of child care providers the SCC program will pay;

     (d) The community resources that can help the consumer select child care when needed;

     (e) Other options for child care subsidies, if the consumer does not qualify for SCC program subsidies; and

     (f) The consumer's rights to an administrative hearing under the SCC program;

     (11) Provide prompt child care authorizations to a consumer's child care provider;

     (12) Respond to a consumer within ten days if the consumer reports a change of circumstance that affects the consumer's:

     (a) SCC eligibility;

     (b) Copayment; or

     (c) Providers; and

     (13) Provide an interpreter or translator service at no cost to the consumer to explain information related to the SCC program.

[]

     (1) Wages and commissions earned from employment;

     (2) Unemployment compensation;

     (3) A TANF or other welfare grant;

     (4) Child support payments received;

     (5) Supplemental Security Income (SSI);

     (6) Other Social Security payments, such as Social Security Administration (SSA) and Social Security disability insurance (SSDI);

     (7) Refugee assistance payments;

     (8) Payments from the Veterans' Administration;

     (9) Pensions or retirement income;

     (10) Payments from labor and industries (L&I), or disability payments;

     (11) Inheritance;

     (12) Reportable gambling winnings; and

     (13) Other types of income not listed in WAC 170-290-3630.

[]

[]

     (a) Savings accounts;

     (b) Money received from sale of real property, such as a house, or personal property, such as a car;

     (c) Tax refunds;

     (d) Earned income credits;

     (e) One-time insurance settlement payments;

     (f) Capital gains;

     (g) Basic Food program;

     (h) Income earned by children as described in WAC 170-290-3540;

     (i) Benefits received by children of Vietnam War veterans who are diagnosed with any form or manifestation of spina bifida except spina bifida occulta; and

     (j) Government economic stimulus payments.

     (2) SCC deducts the amount a consumer pays for child support from his or her countable income when figuring his or her eligibility and copayment for the SCC.

[]

     (a) The consumer's family size as defined under WAC 170-290-3540;

     (b) The consumer's average monthly income as calculated under WAC 170-290-3620;

     (c) The consumer's family's average monthly income as compared to the federal poverty guidelines (FPG); and

     (d) The consumer's family's average monthly income as compared to the copayment chart defined in WAC 170-290-0075.

     (2) If a consumer's family's income is above two hundred percent of the FPG as defined in WAC 170-290-0075, his or her family is not eligible for the SCC program.

     (3) SCC does not prorate the copayment when a consumer uses care for part of a month.

     (4) The FPG is updated every year on April 1. The SCC eligibility level is updated at the same time every year to remain current with the FPG.

     (5) SCC shall assign a copayment amount based on the family's countable income. The copayment amount will be on the consumer's child care plan. The consumer pays the copayment directly to the provider.

[]

     (a) DEL makes a mass change in subsidy benefits due to a change in law or program funding;

     (b) The consumer's family size increases;

     (c) The SCC contractor makes an error in the consumer's copayment computation;

     (d) The consumer did not report all income, activity and household information at the time of eligibility determination or application/reapplication; or

     (e) The consumer is approved for a new eligibility period.

     (2) If a consumer's copayment changes during his or her eligibility period, the change is effective:

     (a) On the first day of the month following the change, when:

     (i) The report is made to the SCC contractor or the information is learned by the contractor within ten or more days after the change as provided in WAC 170-290-3570;

     (ii) The consumer receives ten days written notice; and

     (iii) The copayment is increasing; or

     (b) On the first day of the month that the change occurred when;

     (i) The report is made to the SCC contractor or the information is learned by the contractor within ten days or less after the change as provided in WAC 170-290-3570; and

     (ii) The copayment is decreasing.

[]

[]

     (1) The SCC contractor authorizes child care subsidies when:

     (a) The consumer turns in all of his or her eligibility paperwork to the SCC contractor;

     (b) The SCC contractor determines that the consumer is eligible for the program; and

     (c) The consumer starts his or her children in care with an approved child care provider.

     (2) After the SCC contractor decides that a consumer is eligible, the date the subsidy begins depends upon when the consumer applied and when the consumer turned in all of the paperwork needed as follows:

If at the time of application the consumer:	And the consumer turns all paperwork in:	Then the child care benefits begin:
(a) Has not begun work yet,	Within 14 days of the job starting,	The first day of the job.
(b) Has not begun work yet,	15-29 days after the job starts,	The day after the paperwork is turned in.
(c) Has not begun work yet,	30 days after the job starts,	The application is denied and the consumer must reapply.
(d) Is working,	Within 14 days of the application interview date,	The day the consumer either calls or comes into the SCC contractor's office to apply for SCC benefits.
(e) Is working,	15-29 days after the application interview date,	The day after the paperwork is turned in.
(f) Is working,	30 days after the application interview date,	The application is denied and the consumer must reapply.

[]

     (a) The consumer meets all eligibility criteria for the SCC program;

     (b) The consumer has employment verification that shows a future start date; and

     (c) The program does not have a waiting list.

     (2) Child care benefits begin according to the table in 170-290-3665.

[]

     (a) Is not eligible due to the consumer's:

     (i) Family composition;

     (ii) Income; or

     (iii) Activity; or

     (b) Did not provide information required to determine the consumer's eligibility according to WAC 170-290-3530.

     (2) If a consumer turns in information or otherwise meets eligibility requirements after the denial letter is sent, the consumer's benefits begin according to WAC 170-290-3665.