The parent who earned the most gross income in the 24 months immediately preceding the month of application for UPP is the principal wage earner. This applies regardless of when the relationship between the two parents began.
If the applicant cannot secure the evidence needed by the department to determine which parent is the PWE or if the earned income of both parents is equal, the department shall designate the PWE based on the best evidence available.
The parent designated as the PWE remains the PWE throughout the period of UPP eligibility, including the period of continued medical assistance under § 67:12:18:09.
S.D. Admin. R. 67:12:18:03
General Authority: SDCL 28-7-1.1, 28-7-2.
Law Implemented: SDCL 28-7-1.1, 28-7-2.