(1) For all children in the care and custody of the Department of Child Protection Services (CPS), which may also be referred to as “department” throughout this article, the department shall determine within sixty (60) days after entry into care whether each child is receiving or eligible for earned federal benefits administered by the Social Security Administration or the Department of Veterans Affairs, including survivors’ or dependent benefits.
(2) If CPS determines that a child is eligible or may be eligible for such earned benefits, the department shall apply for the benefits on behalf of the child in accordance with federal law.