WAG 03-05-04-a: Temporary Absence

If the relative or legal guardian of a child is temporarily absent from the home, get the following information:

  • the reason for the absence,
  • where the adult is living during the absence,
  • where the child is living during the absence, and
  • the expected date of return.

When the adult's absence does not meet the requirements of temporary absence, attempt to locate a close relative who is able and willing to assume responsibility for the child.

For TANF, if a close relative cannot be found, consider assigning a Temporary Caretaker to the case (see PM 16-02-00). If a Temporary Caretaker is not available, text deletedrefer the child to DCFS.

NOTE: Assignment of a Temporary Caretaker is only allowed for active cases and not for pending applications.