As part of the procedure for the determination of overpayment to a recipient of public assistance pursuant to section 5101.181 of the Revised Code, the director of job and family services may semiannually, at times determined jointly by the auditor of state and the tax commissioner, furnish to the tax commissioner in computer format the name and social security number of each individual who receives public assistance. Within sixty days after receiving the name and social security number of a recipient of public assistance, the commissioner shall inform the auditor of state whether the individual filed an Ohio individual income tax return, separate or joint, as provided by section 5747.08 of the Revised Code, for either or both of the two taxable years preceding the year in which the director furnished the names and social security numbers to the commissioner. If the individual did so file, at the same time the commissioner shall also inform the auditor of state of the amount of the federal adjusted gross income as reported on such returns and of the addresses on such returns. The commissioner shall also advise the auditor of state whether such returns were filed on a joint basis, as provided in section 5747.08 of the Revised Code, in which case the federal adjusted gross income as reported may be that of the individual or the individual's spouse.

If the auditor of state determines that further investigation is needed, the auditor of state may request the commissioner to determine whether the individual filed income tax returns for any previous taxable years in which the individual received public assistance and for which the tax department retains income tax returns. Within fourteen days of receipt of the request, the commissioner shall inform the auditor of state whether the individual filed an individual income tax return for the taxable years in question, of the amount of the federal adjusted gross income as reported on such returns, of the addresses on such returns, and whether the returns were filed on a joint or separate basis.

If the auditor of state determines that further investigation is needed of a recipient of public assistance who filed an Ohio individual income tax return, the auditor of state may request a certified copy of the Ohio individual income tax return or returns of that person for the taxable years described above, together with any other documents the commissioner has concerning the return or returns. Within fourteen days of receipt of such a request in writing, the commissioner shall forward the returns and documents to the auditor of state.

The director of job and family services, county director of job and family services, county prosecutor, attorney general, auditor of state, or any agent or employee of those officials having access to any information or documents furnished by the commissioner pursuant to this section shall not divulge or use any such information except for the purpose of determining overpayment of public assistance, or for an audit, investigation, or prosecution, or in accordance with a proper judicial order. Any person who violates this provision shall thereafter be disqualified from acting as an agent or employee or in any other capacity under appointment or employment of any state or county board, commission, or agency.

Amended by 129th General AssemblyFile No.28, HB 153, §101.01, eff. 9/29/2011.

Effective Date: 07-01-2000 .