Article Guide
The DHS 38 form is an essential document utilized by the Michigan Department of Human Services to gather critical employment and income information from employers regarding individuals seeking assistance. This form serves multiple purposes, including verifying employment status, documenting income details, and collecting information about health insurance and retirement benefits. Employers are required to provide comprehensive details about their employees, including job title, pay rate, and hours worked. Additionally, the form mandates the disclosure of any disability or workers' compensation benefits received during a specified period. Importantly, the DHS 38 form emphasizes the protection of individual rights, ensuring that all information is handled without discrimination based on various personal characteristics. It also highlights the legal implications of providing false information, reminding employers of the serious consequences of misrepresentation. By facilitating a structured approach to information collection, the DHS 38 form plays a vital role in the assistance process, ensuring that eligible individuals receive the support they need.
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Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Governing Law | The DHS 38 form is governed by the Michigan Public Act 280 of 1939, specifically MCL 400.60 and MCL 400.83. |
| Purpose | This form is used to verify employment and gather necessary information for inquiries or investigations conducted by the Michigan Department of Human Services. |
| Completion Requirement | Completing the DHS 38 form is mandatory. Failure to do so may lead to the issuance of a subpoena. |
| Non-Discrimination Policy | The Department of Human Services ensures that it does not discriminate against any individual or group based on various factors, including race, religion, and gender identity. |
Dhs 38: Usage Guidelines
Completing the DHS 38 form requires careful attention to detail. This form collects important information regarding employment, income, and benefits, which will be used for further processing. Ensure that all sections are filled out accurately to avoid any delays or issues.
- Begin by filling out the Case Name, Case Number, and Date at the top of the form.
- Provide the DHS Office and the Specialist/ID along with their Phone and Fax numbers.
- Enter the Individual ID in the designated space.
- In Section 1 - Employment Information, indicate the Employment Status by checking the appropriate box (Employed, Previously employed, Never employed, or Temporarily off).
- Fill in the Occupation, Date Employment Began, and Date of First Paycheck.
- Provide details regarding First Check (Full or Partial), Date Employment Ended, and Number of Hours Expected to Work per week and per pay period.
- Indicate the Rate of Pay and whether it is by Hour, Piece, or Salary.
- Complete the Differential Pay section, if applicable, and specify the Shift and Day of Week Paid.
- Check how often the employee is paid (Weekly, Twice monthly, Every 2 weeks, Monthly).
- Answer whether tips, bonuses, or commissions are received and if they are included in gross income.
- Fill out the Type of Employment and Average Amount if applicable.
- In Section 2 - Insurance/Retirement Information, indicate whether the employer offers a health plan and if the employee is enrolled.
- Provide information about any cafeteria-style benefit plans and any other individuals covered under any plan.
- Answer questions about 401K or other retirement plans and any deductions.
- In Section 3 - Income Information, list all pay received during the specified period, including gross income and any bonuses or commissions.
- In Section 4 - Disability/Workers Compensation Information, indicate if any medical or disability benefits were paid and provide details about workers' compensation if applicable.
- In Section 5 - Additional Information/Comments, provide any additional information requested and the employer’s response.
- In Section 6 - Signature/Business Information, fill in the Business Name, Business Address, and the name of the person completing the form.
- Ensure the person completing the form signs it and includes their Title, Date Signed, Employer Federal ID (FEIN), Business Telephone Number, and Business Fax Number.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the purpose of the DHS 38 form?
The DHS 38 form is designed for employers to provide essential employment and income information to the Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS). This information is crucial for various inquiries or investigations conducted by the department, particularly when determining eligibility for assistance programs. By completing this form, employers help ensure that individuals receive the benefits they are entitled to based on their employment status and income.
Who is required to complete the DHS 38 form?
Employers are mandated to complete the DHS 38 form when requested by the Michigan Department of Human Services. This requirement stems from the provisions of the 1939 Public Act 280, which obligates employers to provide specific records and documents relevant to the department's inquiries. Additionally, if an employee is a student aged 18 or older, their signature is required to authorize the release of their employment information.
What information must be provided on the DHS 38 form?
The form requires detailed information about the employee's employment status, including whether they are currently employed, previously employed, or never employed. Employers must provide the employee's name, Social Security number, occupation, employment dates, rate of pay, and details about any health or retirement plans offered. Furthermore, the form asks for income information, including bonuses and commissions, as well as any disability or workers' compensation benefits that may have been paid.
What happens if the DHS 38 form is not completed?
Failure to complete the DHS 38 form can lead to serious consequences. The form explicitly states that non-compliance may result in the issuance of a subpoena. This legal action can compel the employer to provide the necessary information, emphasizing the importance of timely and accurate completion of the form to avoid further legal complications.
How does the DHS ensure non-discrimination?
The Michigan Department of Human Services is committed to providing equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of race, religion, age, national origin, color, height, weight, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political beliefs, or disability. This commitment is outlined in the form, which assures individuals that they will not face discrimination in the services provided by DHS. If any individual requires assistance due to a disability, they are encouraged to inform their local DHS office.
What legal penalties are associated with false statements on the DHS 38 form?
Individuals who make false statements to obtain assistance for which they are not eligible face significant legal penalties. If the amount of assistance involved exceeds $500, the offender may be charged with a felony. Conversely, if the amount is $500 or less, the violation is classified as a misdemeanor. This provision underscores the importance of honesty and accuracy when completing the form to avoid serious legal repercussions.
Common mistakes
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Incomplete Information: Many people forget to fill out all required sections. Leaving out important details, such as the case name or case number, can lead to delays in processing.
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Incorrect Dates: It's common to make mistakes with dates. Ensure that employment start and end dates are accurate. Errors can cause confusion and may require additional follow-up.
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Missing Signatures: Failing to sign the form is a frequent oversight. Without the necessary signatures, the form cannot be processed. Always double-check for required signatures before submission.
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Neglecting to Provide Supporting Documents: Some individuals forget to attach required documents, such as proof of income or employment verification. This can result in a request for additional information, slowing down the process.
Documents used along the form
The DHS 38 form is an important document used by the Michigan Department of Human Services to gather information regarding an individual's employment status and related benefits. Along with the DHS 38 form, there are several other forms and documents that may be required to support the information provided or to comply with various regulations. Here are five such documents:
- Verification of Employment Form: This document confirms an individual's employment status, including details such as job title, duration of employment, and salary. Employers complete this form to provide accurate information to the DHS.
- Health Insurance Verification Form: This form is used to verify an employee's health insurance coverage. It details whether the employee is enrolled in a health plan and outlines the benefits provided.
- Income Statement: An income statement provides a summary of an individual's earnings over a specified period. This document helps the DHS assess eligibility for various assistance programs based on income levels.
- Disability Benefits Verification: This document confirms any disability benefits an individual may be receiving. It includes information about the type of benefits, the amount awarded, and the duration of the benefits.
- Retirement Plan Documentation: This documentation outlines any retirement plans an employee may have, such as a 401(k). It provides details on contributions and participation in retirement savings programs.
These documents work in conjunction with the DHS 38 form to ensure that the Department of Human Services has a complete and accurate understanding of an individual's employment and financial situation. Providing accurate information is crucial for the proper evaluation of eligibility for assistance programs.
Similar forms
- W-2 Form: Similar to the DHS 38, the W-2 form reports an employee's annual wages and the taxes withheld. Both documents require employer input and are used to verify income.
- 1099 Form: This form is used for reporting income received by independent contractors. Like the DHS 38, it involves income verification but applies to non-employees.
- I-9 Form: The I-9 form verifies an employee's eligibility to work in the U.S. It also requires employer verification, similar to the employment verification process in the DHS 38.
- Pay Stub: A pay stub provides details of an employee's earnings and deductions for a specific pay period. It serves a similar purpose of income verification as the DHS 38.
- Employment Verification Letter: This document confirms an employee's job status and income. It parallels the DHS 38 in its role of validating employment information.
- Social Security Administration (SSA) Earnings Record: This record details an individual's earnings history for Social Security benefits. It is similar in that it provides a summary of income for verification purposes.
- Unemployment Insurance Claim Form: This form is used to apply for unemployment benefits and includes income details. Like the DHS 38, it requires accurate income reporting.
- Health Insurance Marketplace Application: This application collects income information to determine eligibility for health coverage. It shares a similar requirement for accurate financial disclosure.
- Retirement Plan Enrollment Form: This form collects information about an employee's income and benefits. It serves a similar purpose in verifying employment and income details as the DHS 38.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the DHS 38 form, it’s important to follow certain guidelines to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
- Do read the instructions carefully before starting the form.
- Do provide accurate and complete information in all sections.
- Do double-check your entries for any errors or omissions.
- Do submit the form by the specified return date to avoid delays.
- Don't leave any required fields blank; if something does not apply, indicate that clearly.
- Don't provide false information, as this can lead to legal consequences.
- Don't hesitate to reach out to a local DHS office if you have questions or need assistance.
Following these guidelines can help ensure that your submission is processed efficiently and correctly. Remember, accuracy and honesty are key when dealing with official forms.
Misconceptions
Understanding the Dhs 38 form can be challenging. Here are eight common misconceptions about this form, clarified for better comprehension:
- Misconception 1: The Dhs 38 form is optional.
- Misconception 2: DHS employees can provide legal advice regarding the form.
- Misconception 3: The information on the Dhs 38 form is confidential.
- Misconception 4: Completing the form is straightforward and does not require careful attention.
- Misconception 5: The form is only for individuals currently employed.
- Misconception 6: The form does not require a signature.
- Misconception 7: The Dhs 38 form is the same for every state.
- Misconception 8: You cannot get help with the form if you have disabilities.
This form is mandatory. Failing to complete it can lead to legal penalties, including the issuance of a subpoena.
DHS employees are prohibited by law from giving legal advice. If you have questions, seek assistance from a qualified legal professional.
While certain protections exist, the information provided can be shared with relevant authorities for inquiries or investigations.
Completing the Dhs 38 form requires accuracy. Any mistakes or omissions can delay processing or affect eligibility.
The Dhs 38 form also applies to individuals who were previously employed or are temporarily off work. Accurate employment history is essential.
A signature is necessary for validation. It ensures that the information provided is accurate and authorized.
This form is specific to Michigan. Other states may have different forms and requirements for similar purposes.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, individuals can request assistance with reading, writing, or other needs when completing the form.
Key takeaways
When dealing with the DHS 38 form, it’s essential to keep a few key points in mind. This form is crucial for verifying employment and income information for individuals seeking assistance from the Michigan Department of Human Services. Here are some important takeaways:
- Complete All Sections: Ensure that every section of the form is filled out accurately. Incomplete forms can lead to delays or issues with your application.
- Return by Deadline: Submit the completed form to the designated DHS specialist by the specified return date to avoid complications.
- Employer’s Responsibility: Employers must provide truthful and comprehensive information regarding the employee’s status, pay, and benefits.
- Legal Consequences: Failing to complete the form or providing false information can result in legal penalties, including potential felonies for significant discrepancies.
- Privacy Considerations: Be aware that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) restricts the release of student employment information without proper authorization.
- Assistance Available: If you have questions or need help, don’t hesitate to contact your local DHS office. They can guide you through the process without providing legal advice.
By keeping these points in mind, you can navigate the DHS 38 form process more effectively and ensure that your application is handled smoothly.