Secure information regarding duration and reason for confinement in a medical or custodial institution. This can usually be done by obtaining a statement from the facility.
Temporary visits by the absent parent due to temporary leaves of absence from an institution do not affect eligibility.
If unable to verify institutionalization at initial application, continually attempt to obtain documentary verification as soon as possible.
Unless institutionalization is verified, treat the case as absent from the home until institutionalization is verified.