Client Letters

Why Don't The Letters On This Website Look Like My Letters?

1. Letter Templates: These are the "letters" listed on this site. They are basically the skeleton letters based on different kinds of DSHS actions.



2. Reason Code Information: You can look at the different reason codes. Reason code information includes a statement of the general reason for DSHS' action and a citation to the laws governing the action from the Washington Administrative Code (WAC).



3. Conditional Text: You can look at the conditional text. Depending on information DSHS puts in their computer about you, other information might appear on your letter. For example, if you have children, the letter might have information about child care, child support services, or medical care you can get even if you can't get cash assistance.



4. Text Added by Worker: There are some spaces in letters where workers can add their own text. That text does not appear on this website. Some reason codes require workers to add case specific details about the action DSHS is taking. For example, a TANF denial letter might state "You cannot get TANF because your household's income is too high." The case specific information (called additional information or mandatory freeform text) would be something like, "A household of 4 cannot get TANF if they earn more than $1,280/month. Your household's wages are $2,000/month." The reason code protocol explains which reason codes require additional information, and what details are required.