305.05 Verification of Citizenship SR 97-43, 12/97 (FAM-A)

Verify citizenship with acceptable forms of proof such as: birth or hospital records, voter registration cards, U.S. passport, and INS documentation which certifies citizenship or naturalization

Accept a baptismal certificate if it was recorded within 3 months of the infant’s birth and shows the baptism took place in the U.S.

Verify citizenship of each household member at the initial determination of eligibility. Deny financial and medical assistance to any individual who does not provide proof of citizenship status.

Exception: For medical assistance-only, when acceptable proof of citizenship is not available for a newborn, accept documentation such as a hospital bill which shows that the newborn was born in the U.S. or a U.S. territory. Accept an affidavit signed by someone who has first hand knowledge of the history of the newborn.

The affidavit must state that the signer:

• Is a U.S. citizen;

• Knows the applicant to be a U.S. citizen, and

• May be fined, imprisoned, or both for giving false information.

Exception: Affidavits are not acceptable verification of qualified alien status.

Substitute verification, such as a hospital bill or affidavit, is good for a maximum of 1 year. After that, acceptable forms of proof of citizenship are required.