(1) What is the pandemic emergency assistance fund (PEAF)?

The pandemic emergency assistance fund (PEAF) is administered by the department of social and health services and provides a one-time cash benefit to low income families with at least one qualifying child, to support them in meeting their basic needs as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

(2) The following definitions apply to PEAF:

(a) "Household" as defined in WAC 388-408-0015 or WAC 388-408-0035.

(b) "Qualifying child" means a child as defined in WAC 388-404-0005.

(3) Who is eligible for the PEAF?

Each child in your household may be eligible for PEAF if your child meets all of the following:

(a) A qualifying child lives in your home and has not already received PEAF;

(b) The household is active, eligible, and receiving TANF, SNAP, SFA, or FAP benefits in the month of issuance;

(c) The reported household income, as defined in chapter 388-450 WAC, at the time of issuance is at or below 75% of the federal poverty level;

(d) You reside in Washington state as required under WAC 388-468-0005.

(4) How do I apply for the pandemic emergency assistance fund?

(a) The department automatically reviews your eligibility for PEAF during the month of issuance:

(b) When you apply for TANF, SFA, SNAP, or FAP; or

(c) You are an active household receiving TANF, SFA, SNAP, or FAP.

(5) What benefits will I receive if I am eligible for PEAF?

(a) PEAF is issued only once per qualifying child.

(b) The amount of the PEAF benefit is the same for each qualifying child and is determined based on:

(i) The amount of available PEAF funding; and

(ii) The number of qualifying children in the month of issuance.