1.4 WorkFirst Orientation

Created on: 
Jun 02 2015

Revised on: March 14, 2025

Legal References:

The WorkFirst Orientation section includes:

  • 1.4.1 What is WorkFirst Orientation and who needs one?
  • 1.4.2 How is the WorkFirst Orientation delivered?
  • 1.4.3 What happens during the WorkFirst Orientation?
  • 1.4.4 What is covered during the WorkFirst Orientation?

1.4.1 What is the WorkFirst Orientation and who needs one?

The WorkFirst Orientation is an upfront introduction provided to potential participants about what the WorkFirst program has to offer. WorkFirst Orientation provides an overview of the programs, services, and opportunities available for participants and their families while receiving a TANF grant. All individuals, including adults being added to an active TANF case or transferring from other cash programs, who are mandatory WorkFirst participants as described in WAC 388-310-0200, must complete a WorkFirst Orientation prior to TANF or SFA cash assistance approval. An orientation is not required for individuals who received TANF or SFA within the past 30 days.

1.4.2 How is the WorkFirst Orientation delivered?

The WorkFirst Orientation is delivered one-on-one, either by phone or desk-side, by WorkFirst staff. Each participant is provided the WorkFirst Folder, DSHS 22-395, followed by immediate viewing of the WorkFirst Orientation Video. A Desk-Side WorkFirst Orientation Script is available to support phone WorkFirst Orientations and interpretation of the video content for participants who are limited English proficient (LEP).

1.4.3 What happens during the WorkFirst Orientation?

WorkFirst staff conducts the orientation before TANF or SFA cash assistance approval to provide a broad overview of the WorkFirst Program.

When presenting WorkFirst opportunities during the Orientation:

NOTE: For WorkFirst Orientations conducted over the phone, mail the participant the WorkFirst Folder (DSHS 22-395)
  • Give local resource information, in writing, for future reference.
  • Let participants know they can call a case manager if they have questions or concerns about participating.

1.4.4 What is covered during the WorkFirst Orientation?

The WorkFirst Orientation Video provides a basic overview of the TANF and WorkFirst program, including:

  • TANF 60-month time limit information
  • Program participation activity options
  • Sanctions and related grant reductions
  • Availability of support services including child care

It also emphasizes the importance of communication with DSHS, so the Community Services Division team may continue to provide supports and services where necessary.

Considering the streamlined focus of the WorkFirst Orientation Video, there are several topics that WorkFirst staff need to ensure are covered more in-depth with the participant either during the eligibility determination process (including Orientation), the Comprehensive Evaluation, or during Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP) development.

These topics include:

  • Division of Child Support (DCS) Good Cause Options
  • Family Violence
  • IRP Participation Requirements
  • Parenting Support Programs
  • Sanction Process and Expectations for Communication
  • Support Services, particularly what is available in the participant's area

The Desk-Side WorkFirst Orientation staff training is available to assist in weaving these pieces of information into already occurring conversations with the participant.

Resources

Related WorkFirst Handbook Sections

Forms & Other Resources