MEMORANDUM

DISCUSSION:

In an effort to reduce costs associated with processing and sending benefits to Blind Pension, Supplemental Aid to the Blind, Supplemental Nursing Care, Supplement Payments, and Vendor participants, eligibility specialist (ES) should discuss the option of direct deposit by electronic fund transfer (EFT) to a checking or savings account as a preferred method of receiving MO HealthNet cash benefits.  This discussion should occur at the time of initial application, during annual reviews, and interim contacts.

ES should explain the following benefits of EFT and encourage participation:

• Benefits are available to the participant on the availability date instead of waiting for delivery by mail;
• EFT ensures safe delivery of funds without the risk of the check being lost or stolen in the mail;
• Eliminates the need to go somewhere to cash the check;
• There are no associated fees;
• Funds are immediately available for withdrawal using an ATM card or to write checks.

Following the discussion of the benefits of EFT, the ES should provide the participant with the Agreement for Direct Deposit (IM-20) form. The participant can take the form with him/her and mail at a later date.

NECESSARY ACTION:

• Review this memorandum with appropriate staff
• Discuss using direct deposit with all applicants and participants of MO Health cash assistance programs.
• Provide participants with the Agreement for Direct Deposit (IM-20) form at initial application and annual review if not enrolled.

AC/VB