You may have received new enrollment forms (SOC 426) along with updates on the fingerprinting requirement, mandatory provider orientation, and other information in the mail.

Some of this information, which has been sent by the state to the counties, has been confusing, contradictory, incomplete or, in some cases, possibly illegal.

UDW is working with the counties and other organizations representing providers and clients to try to solve these problems.

In the meantime, the new provider enrollment requirements including background checks and fingerprinting are still in place, and have not been stopped by litigation.

YOU SHOULD THEREFORE FILL OUT THE NEW ENROLLMENT FORMS AND RETURN THEM TO THE ADDRESS PROVIDED IN THE INSTRUCTIONS FROM YOUR COUNTY.

Although the law states current providers have until July 1, 2010 to comply it can take SIX WEEKS or longer after you have submitted all the documentation, for the county to process background checks etc. The payroll computer is set to terminate any provider that has not been completely processed by July 1, 2010.

IT IS THEREFORE NOW IMPORTANT TO ACT
WITHOUT DELAY.

There is one exception: If you are asked to sign a “Form 426″ which includes the question about whether you have ever been convicted “of a serious crime or misdemeanor” respectfully refuse to sign the document and refer the
county official to All County Letter (ACL) No. 09-78
More information and copy of ACL

LATEST LETTER (ACL) REGARDING QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ON CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR IHSS PROVIDERS

*Note: Current providers (those who are recognized in the state’s payrolling system from January 1, 2001 to October 31, 2009) are NOT required to attend orientation meetings in person. As a current provider you have the right to receive the orientation materials by mail.  All providers must still go to their county office to sign and return the acknowledgment form in person, however not all counties are making this option clear.

Detail on each specific change to IHSS caused by state budget reductions are listed below.

If you have further questions, contact your local UDW officeor call our toll-free number: 1-800-621-5016.