MFIP BILL OF RIGHTS
1. RIGHT TO APPLY.
All families in Minnesota have the right to apply for MFIP. Apply
in writing, even if someone says you're not eligible. If you are eligible for MFIP-diversion,
you can choose between MFIP and MFIP-diversion. Ask for help in comparing the two
programs before you choose.
2. RIGHT TO ASK FOR TRAINING AND EDUCATION.
You have the right to propose
an education or training plan of up to one year -- instead of an immediate job search. Also,
if you would not be able to find a job with your current skills, you have the right to training
and education before you do a job search.
3. RIGHT TO FAIR AND SAFE WORK CONDITIONS.
You have the right to a job free
from discrimination based on race, sex, disability, national origin, sexual orientation, receipt
of public assistance, or religion. You have the right to safe, sanitary work conditions. Any
job must pay at least the minimum wage. For most jobs, minimum wage is $4.90 or $5.15
per hour.
4. RIGHT TO HELP GETTING A JOB AT A LIVING WAGE.
You have the right to help
finding a job that pays enough to move you off welfare. You have the right to know how
much per hour you would have to earn to make more than your cash grant. You have the
right to know how much your child care and medical benefits are worth.
5. RIGHT TO BE EXCUSED FROM WORK REQUIREMENTS.
You don't have to get a
job if you are disabled, seriously ill, taking care of a seriously ill or disabled family member,
age 60 or older, unable to get transportation, or having a crisis.
6. RIGHT TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM DOMESTIC VIOLENCE.
If you are
experiencing domestic violence, you have the right to help in planning for your safety. While
you are on a safety plan, your time on MFIP does not count towards your 60 months lifetime
limit, and you can be excused from work requirements for up to twelve months.
7. RIGHT TO CHILD CARE.
The county should help you find decent child care. The
county will pay most or all of the child care charges, depending on your income and the
amount of the charges. The county can't make you leave your child with an unwilling friend
or relative. You don't have to work if no decent child care is available.
8. RIGHT TO MEDICAL CARE.
If you are eligible for MFIP, you are automatically
eligible for Medical Assistance (MA), which means free medical care and preventive services.
If you are not eligible for MFIP, or you choose not to get the cash portion, you could still be
eligible for MA. Also, ask about EPSDT; it means free child and teen check-ups, and help
from the county in scheduling and getting to appointments.
9. RIGHT TO PRIVACY.
Fraud investigators need your permission to enter your home
without a search warrant. Before entering, they must give you a warning, explaining what
they are looking for and why. You have the right to provide the necessary information in
other ways, without a home visit.
10. RIGHT TO APPEAL.
You have the right to appeal any MFIP decision you think is
unfair. The county must tell you, in writing, any time it makes a negative decision about
you. Usually, you must file a written appeal within 30 days.
Prepared by
Mid-Minnesota Legal Assistance (2-98)
MFIP tips here
return to SMRLS - Winona main page
Disclaimer