INTENT

To assist with the costs associated with a residential move in specific circumstances when the household unit requires a move.

POLICY

A benefit may be provided to an applicant or recipient for actual moving costs of the household unit within Alberta or Canada, using the most economical and reasonable means (conditions for each circumstance are described separately further below):

• Where a residential move is essential to accept confirmed employment, or
• To relocate for financial or social support, or
• To escape a situation of abuse, regardless of the abused household member’s relationship to the abuser.

Substantiation

• The standard substantiation for costs is a written estimate from the vendor. Additional estimates may be requested if the costs appear unreasonable.
• Additional substantiation for each type of move is indicated below.

Costs Covered

• Reasonable hotel or motel and meals if essential to the move and the well-being of the family.
• Gas; insurance; rental truck or trailer deposits; bus fare.
• Professional moving company only if self-move is not reasonable.
• Packing only if a person is unable to pack due to medical reasons.

Moving to Confirmed Employment
When an adult member of the household unit is accepting confirmed employment within Alberta or Canada that is considered a viable option for future financial independence.

Moving Out of Alberta – Relocation
When a household unit is moving to another province or territory for financial or social support (or both):

• Young applicants and recipients (age 18-25), who have parents or guardians who may be able to assist, are required to contact these people first to determine if they are willing to pay for their move.

   

• A person being assisted with a move, where the cost of the move is more than the value of one month’s benefits, must be informed that if the person reapplies for assistance in Alberta within 12 months of receiving this benefit, he or she will be required to repay all the moving costs issued, ISHTB Regulation, Section 7(c)(ii), and will be required to sign an EMP 0976B Repayment Agreement prior to receiving the benefit.

Moving to Escape Abuse
When it is essential for the safety of any member of the household unit to move within Alberta or Canada to escape abuse.

PROCEDURES

Moving Out of Alberta – Relocation
LISA automatically posts the allowance to the Scratch Pad.

The worker enters a CCD Alert using Alert Code 25 Relocation and an explanation.

If the client reapplies for benefits within 12 months of the move and is eligible, the worker:

1. Informs the client of the debt owing for the repayment of their moving costs.
2. Enters the debt in the Recoveries System.
3. Informs the client of the monthly deduction from their benefits.