milestone disbursement of federal benefits

16-2506. milestone disbursement of federal benefits. If the department is appointed to serve as the representative payee of a child in the legal custody of the department, the department shall: (1) Develop and implement a success sequence savings and disbursement plan for each child with conserved earned benefits. Under the plan the child may access a portion of the child’s benefits upon completion of specific milestones that promote independence and financial readiness. Such milestones may include: (a) Obtaining a driver’s license or state identification card; (b) Receiving a high school diploma or a recognized equivalent; (c) Enrolling in a postsecondary education, vocational training, or apprenticeship program; (d) Maintaining verified employment for at least six (6) consecutive months; and (e) Completing a department-approved financial literacy or saving readiness program; (2) Determine reasonable disbursement thresholds and amounts for each milestone; and (3) Before the child leaves the custody of the department, ensure that the child has access to financial literacy and planning tools.