Ops Memo 2013-56: EAEDC and TAFDC – ATM/POS Blocking and Intentional Program Violations (IPV)

Overview
State law prohibits the use of cash assistance (TAFDC and EAEDC) in certain establishments and for the purchase of specified goods and services. This law applies to both Point-of-Sale (POS) transactions as well as ATM withdrawals in certain establishments. DTA will act to enforce this by blocking the use of EBT cash benefits at POS devices and ATMs in certain locations.

Operations Memo 2012-49 and Operations Memo 2013-43 advised DTA staff about the prohibited items and prohibited establishments and that the Department began blocking POS devices and ATMs in certain establishments.

Purpose of Memo
This Operations Memo advises DTA staff that, effective with BEACON Build 45.9 (scheduled for November 25, 2013):

• There is a new type of Intentional Program Violation (IPV): EBT IPV;
• EAEDC and TAFDC clients who use their EBT cards to knowingly purchase prohibited goods and services or who use their EBT cards at prohibited establishments are considered to have committed an EBT Intentional Program Violation (IPV) and face penalties if found to have committed an EBT IPV after a combined Fair Hearing and Administrative Disqualification Hearing; and
• Notices (Attachment A, Attachment B and Attachment C) will inform clients of the EBT IPV penalties.