For non-wards, local offices in the county of residence are responsible for these determinations. Action is to be taken on all applications for adoption assistance within 45 days from the date of application unless there are unusual or extenuating circumstances. Local offices are responsible for determining eligibility and making assistance benefit payments. In awarding Title IV-E adoption assistance and county subsidy, family income is not a factor in determining payment amounts. In the negotiation process, the financial resources of the adopting family are considered in terms of the needs of the child.
Financial information is provided to the court when county subsidy is petitioned for.
The court must order the county subsidy. A child's adoption assistance agreement may be periodically reviewed by the state. A second notice will be sent by certified mail 20 days before renewal. If the renewal request is not received from the adoptive parents within five working days after the renewal date, the agreement will be terminated. On the basis of the sworn report, the subsidy may be continued, increased, reduced or discontinued by order of the court.