Verification Requirements
Medical Statements
The primary source of the verification of incapacity/disability for a determination of unemployability, is the “General Assistance Program - Request for Medical Information” (SCD 1400). Any other written statement from a physician, psychiatrist, dentist, chiropractor, psychologist, nurse practitioner, physician's assistant, psychiatric social worker; or other State-licensed medical practitioner may be accepted. The form or written statement must include the following information:
- A diagnosis and prognosis which indicates that the applicant/recipient, has a physical or mental incapacity, which prevents them from engaging in any employment activities.
- Specific functional limitations.
- Probable duration of incapacity. A re-assessment must be completed at the end of the duration date indicated on the SCD 1400 or other medical verification provided.
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Note: If the SCD 1400 or other medical verification clearly indicates that the disability is permanent, then a re-assessment is not required. However, if there is questionable/inconsistent information, clarification must be obtained from the medical professional. [Refer to the "Questionable/Inconsistent Information" section below]. Example:Example:
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- Date of the next appointment.
- Practitioner's name, address, telephone number, signature and the date of completion.
Important: Applicants/recipients whose disability is expected to last at least 12 months, or has lasted 12 months or longer, MUST apply for SSI, and they must meet all requirements for GA. Refer to Referrals to SSI Advocacy.
Verification from Social Security
Award letters or other written verification from the Social Security Administration, are acceptable verification of applicant’s/recipient’s incapacity or disability; provided the information indicates:
- The applicant/recipient is disabled and/or is receiving Title II Social Security Disability benefits, or
- The applicant/recipient had previously received SSI/SSP, but was discontinued for a non-medical reason and continues to be disabled.
Note: A check from the Social Security Administration cannot be used to verify the incapacity/disability of an individual.
Verification from SDI or Worker's Compensation
Award letters or other written verification from SDI or Worker's Compensation are acceptable verification of incapacity or disability, provided they indicate that the applicant/recipient is:
- Disabled and/or unable to work, and
- Receiving benefits.
“Disability Determination and Transmittal” (MC 221)
The MC 221 is acceptable verification of an individual’s disability, and/or incapacity, provided that, it indicates the applicant/recipient has been approved to receive Medi-Cal as a disabled person. If the MC 221 indicates that there is a specific reexamination date, a new medical report and referral to DDSD will be required at that time.
Other Acceptable Verification
Other acceptable medical evidence, or written verification may include, but is not limited to:
- Recent hospital records.
- Statements from health and life insurance companies.
- Statements from the State Department of Rehabilitation.
Reminder: These require approval by the EW Supervisor, and may require a follow-up referral to a doctor.
When Required
Medical verification is required:
- At intake and
- the date the medical exemption expires.
Questionable/Inconsistent Verification
If the medical verification received is questionable or inconsistent, the EW will initiate a request for acceptable verification.
If the verification received is inconsistent with prior information, the EW will only consider the most recent evidence which pertains to the client's current medical condition.
Presumptively Unemployable
Clients claiming to be unemployable are considered presumptively unemployable for a maximum of 60 days. If no SCD 1400 or other medical verification has been provided by the 60-day due date, the client must be discontinued from GA.
[Refer to "Obtaining Medical Verification" in the DEBS BP].
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