MEMORANDUM

DISCUSSION:

When processing MO HealthNet for Adult, Blind or Disabled coverage, verification of resources is required as a condition of eligibility. Direct Express (DE) benefit debit cards can only be used for deposit of federal benefits such as Social Security Income (SSI), Social Security Retirement Benefits (OASDI), Railroad Retirement or Veteran's Administration benefits; however, there is no restriction on maintaining balances which may create a resource issue for MO HealthNet programs with a resource limit.

This memo will address verification options for this resource:

• Normal DE Balance Verification Process
• Health Care Entity or FSD Assistance Process
• Alternate processes

Normal DE Balance Verification Process

At this time, participants can obtain online transaction histories for free online. However, the transaction history does not provide balance information and is not useable for resource verification. In order to obtain balance verification, a participant may do the following:

• Sign up at the above address and obtain the information for a monthly fee.  The Family Support Division (FSD) will not mandate this option as it will cost the participant. or
• Obtain a balance printout at surcharge free Automatic Transaction Machines (ATM).  This option is a real-time capture and will not provide information regarding prior balances, which may be needed for prior quarter determinations.
  • A list of surcharge free ATMs may be found at
    •  www.usdirectexpress.com or
    • Toll free at (888)741-1115

Health Care Entity Assistance Process

In some instances, a participant may need assistance in obtaining the current or prior quarter balances of their DE benefit card.  Health care entities, such as physicians or hospital staff, and Family Support Division staff may assist participants in obtaining this information.

Participants can, with health care entity staff present, call Direct Express at (888)741-1115, 24 hours a day and obtain current and prior balance information.  They do not have to have their card; the automated system can be accessed with a Social Security Number or the DE card number. The health care entity may listen to the balance information provided and then complete a written attestation to provide FSD regarding the balances provided. The document should then be submitted to FSD through normal processes.

To be acceptable, the attestation must include the following:

• A statement that the balances were obtained by calling the DE Customer Service number listed above and that the health care entity heard this information during the call
• The balance or balances, including the dates of the balance for any prior quarter months
• The printed or typed name of the health care entity personnel, their signature, their title, and phone number
• The date of the call

The health care entity may develop a form to obtain this information but it is not necessary.

If a participant comes in to a local FSD office or Resource Center, FSD staff may listen to the participant call the Direct Express Customer Service Line and obtain current and prior balance information.  FSD staff do not need to complete an attestation in writing.  FSD staff must capture the balance information and comment regarding the call at the FMW0/Liquid Resource Detail screen in FAMIS.

Alternate Processes

In rare circumstances, participants still might not be able to obtain verification. If this should happen, the local FSD office should submit an IM-14, Request for Interpretation along with any information that the participant was able to provide, through normal supervisory channels detailing the issue and steps taken to get the information. Program and Policy will determine if there is sufficient information on a case-by-case basis.

NECESSARY ACTION:

• Review with appropriate staff.
• Accept health care entity attestation as needed.
• FSD staff provide assistance in obtaining the information as needed.

JG/mah