1. (a)

   1. (1) Status 02 represents an individual's entrance into the VR process.
   2. (2) When an individual signs a document requesting VR services, the counselor must place the individual into Status 02.
   3. (3) At that point, the individual is considered an applicant after completing an agency application form.
   4. (4) However, the counselor may place an individual into Status 02 if the individual requests services with a signed letter and minimum basic referral information.

2. (b)

   1. (1) The counselor must place every case in Status 02 before authorizing a diagnostic service or services.
   2. (2) While the individual is in Status 02, the counselor investigates and secures sufficient information to determine eligibility for VR services or a decision to use trial work experience.
   3. (3) An individual can only remain in Status 02 for sixty (60) days unless the counselor and applicant agree to a specific extension of time.

   4. (4) If needed, under the heading of “60-Day Extension” in the case note, record the:

      1. (A) Dates of the extension; and
      2. (B) Specific reasons for the need for an extension of time to determine eligibility.
3. (c) Example (sixty-day extension). This client will be placed in Status 02 for an additional thirty (30) days April 1 – 30 due to the fact that more testing and medical records are needed in order to determine eligibility.

Codification Notes: “VR” means vocational rehabilitation.