You can ask for an extension of your benefits. In deciding whether you get an extension, DTA says that it looks at

• what you are doing to find a full-time job,
• whether you have complied with work requirements and DTA work activities,
• whether you have been sanctioned for not complying with DTA rules,
• whether there are jobs in your area that you could do,
• whether suitable child care is available. See 106 C.M.R. § 703.130(A); DTA Operations Memo 2013-38 (July 26, 2013).

You can also get an extension if

• you are working at least 35 hours a week and you are still financially and otherwise eligible.
• you are in a DTA-approved education or training program and need additional time to complete the program. 106 C.M.R. § 703.130(A).

Advocacy Reminders

• You may use informal (unlicensed) child care if you wish, but you have a strong case for an extension if licensed care is not available and you do not want to use informal care.
• DTA must give you an opportunity to participate in a work activity. You should not be denied an extension if DTA did not refer you to work activities. DTA Transitions, Dec. 2013, p. 3.
• DTA limits extensions to three months (or less) but you can ask for as many extensions as you need. 106 C.M.R. § 703.130(B)(3); DTA Operations Memo 2013-38 (July 26, 2013). See how long extensions last.
• DTA says that it can also look at whether you made a good faith effort to meet your economic independence goals. 106 C.M.R. § 703.130(A)(1)(f). This may not be legal. Contact your local legal services program, Appendix D, if you are denied for this reason.