Download Georgia 57 Form

When filling out the Georgia 57 form, it’s important to follow specific guidelines to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here are six things you should and shouldn’t do:

• Do provide accurate information for all required fields, especially the child's name and date of birth.
• Don't leave any sections blank. If a section doesn’t apply, indicate that clearly.
• Do ensure that the contact information for the childcare provider is current and correct.
• Don't submit the form without reviewing it for any errors or omissions.
• Do report any changes in the child's placement or childcare arrangements within 5 working days.
• Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission to avoid delays.

• Misconception 1: The Georgia 57 form is only for children in foster care.

This form is also applicable for children who are in informal care arrangements, such as care provided by relatives or non-relatives. It serves a broader purpose than just foster care.

• Misconception 2: Completing the form guarantees financial assistance.

While the form is a necessary step in applying for assistance, approval is not guaranteed. The eligibility determination depends on various factors, including family size and income.

• Misconception 3: Only the foster care case manager can fill out the form.

Though the case manager plays a significant role, foster parents can also provide information, particularly in sections related to child care providers.

• Misconception 4: The form does not require updates once submitted.

It’s crucial to report any changes in the child's placement or care arrangements to the case manager within five working days. Keeping the information current is essential for continued assistance.

• Misconception 5: The form is only relevant for children with disabilities.

The Georgia 57 form is designed for all children needing child care assistance, regardless of whether they have a disability.

• Misconception 6: The form is a one-time requirement.

Depending on the circumstances, families may need to submit this form multiple times, especially if there are changes in care needs or eligibility status.

• Misconception 7: The form is difficult to complete.

While it may seem complex at first, the form is straightforward. Clear instructions are provided for each section, making it manageable for those filling it out.

• Misconception 8: The form is only applicable to specific counties.

The Georgia 57 form is used statewide, meaning it is applicable in all counties across Georgia. This ensures uniformity in the application process for child care assistance.

1. What is the purpose of the Georgia 57 form?

   The Georgia 57 form is designed to facilitate the application for supplemental supervision in child care for foster children. It collects essential information about the child, their foster care placement, and the child care provider. This form ensures that the needs of the child are met while also adhering to state regulations regarding child care in foster situations.

2. Who is responsible for completing the Georgia 57 form?

   The form must be completed by the Service Supervisor Case Manager (SSCM) for the foster child information and the child care provider information. The foster care case manager is responsible for signing off on the placement information. The CAPS case manager will finalize the eligibility determination section.

3. What information is required on the Georgia 57 form?

   The form requires detailed information about the foster child, including their name, date of birth, social security number, ethnicity, and any disabilities. Additionally, it asks for details about the foster care placement, such as the foster parent's name and contact information. The child care provider's name, address, and phone number must also be included, along with the reason for care and the days and hours care is needed.

4. What happens if there are changes in the child's placement or child care arrangements?

   Any changes in the child's placement or child care arrangements must be reported to the child care case manager within five working days. This requirement is crucial for maintaining accurate records and ensuring that the child continues to receive appropriate care and support.

Filling out the Georgia 57 form can be a straightforward process, but mistakes are common and can lead to delays or complications in obtaining child care assistance. One of the most frequent errors is failing to provide complete information about the child. Each section of the form requires specific details, such as the child’s full name, date of birth, and social security number. Omitting any of this information can result in the form being returned for correction, which can slow down the application process.

Another common mistake is not updating the foster care placement information. It is crucial to report any changes in the child's placement or child care arrangements within five working days. Many applicants overlook this requirement, assuming that their initial submission is sufficient. This oversight can lead to issues with eligibility and may even result in a denial of assistance.

Additionally, applicants often misinterpret the eligibility determination section. For instance, the family unit size must be accurately filled out, as it directly impacts the assistance amount. Similarly, the UAS code must be correctly selected to ensure the application is processed according to the specific needs of the child. Misunderstanding these details can lead to incorrect assessments of eligibility, causing further delays.

Providing inaccurate information about the child care provider is another mistake that can hinder the application process. The form requires the name, address, and phone number of the child care provider, along with their status (licensed, registered, or informal). If this information is incorrect or incomplete, it may lead to complications in verifying the provider's qualifications, which can ultimately affect the approval of the application.

Finally, many applicants neglect to sign and date the form before submission. A signature is not just a formality; it signifies that the information provided is accurate and complete. Without a signature, the form may be considered invalid, requiring the applicant to start the process over again. Taking the time to carefully review the form and ensure all sections are properly completed can save significant time and frustration in the long run.