Missouri TA Application Stuck in Pending? How to Fix It

You filed a Temporary Assistance application for your grandchild weeks ago. Nothing has happened. No approval, no denial — just silence. If this sounds familiar, there's a good chance your application is stuck behind Missouri's TA Orientation requirement.

The Orientation Trap

When you submit Form IM-1TA, the FSD system assigns your case a processing code. Until you complete the mandatory TA Orientation step, the system holds the application in "PI" or "BI" pending status. It won't move forward — no caseworker review, no eligibility determination, nothing — until the orientation verification code ("BC") is entered.

This requirement catches many kinship caregivers off guard. You submitted the application, provided your documents, and assumed processing was underway. But FSD's system literally will not evaluate your case until that BC code is recorded.

The TA Orientation explains the Temporary Assistance program and your rights and responsibilities. Ask your caseworker or the FSD Call Center how to complete it.

What to Do Right Now

1. Contact your FSD caseworker or the FSD Call Center (1-855-373-4636) and ask specifically: "Has my TA Orientation been completed and the BC code entered?" If they can't find a record of it, ask how to schedule or complete the orientation immediately.

2. Complete the orientation as soon as possible. The 45-day processing clock for TA started when FSD received your signed application, even if the case is stalled pending orientation. If you're approaching day 45, contact FSD for a status update.

3. Get written confirmation. After completing the orientation, ask the caseworker or facilitator to confirm that the BC code has been entered into the system. Don't assume it happened — system entry errors are real.

Other Reasons for Pending Status

If the orientation is complete and the application is still stuck:

• Missing verification documents: FSD may have requested proof of the child's identity, relationship, or residency and the request got lost in the mail. Log into myDSS to check for pending verification requests.
• Interview not completed: Some applications require a caseworker interview (in person or by phone). If you missed a scheduled call, the case stalls.
• System backlogs: FSD offices experience workload surges. If all verifications are submitted and the orientation is done, call and ask for a supervisor review.

The 45-Day Rule and Your Rights

FSD's standard processing period is 45 calendar days from receipt of the signed application. If your application remains pending beyond that period, contact FSD for a status update. If FSD sends a denial or other adverse decision, you can request an Administrative Fair Hearing within 90 calendar days of the notice date.

Preventing This on the Next Application

If you're applying for another child or renewing: complete the TA Orientation the same day you submit the application, if possible. If your county offers a walk-in orientation at the FSD office, do it when you drop off the paperwork. The orientation and the application are technically separate steps, and doing them together eliminates the most common delay.

For a complete walkthrough of the TA application process — including what documents to bring and how the child-only income rules work — see our Missouri Financial Help for Grandparents and Relatives Raising a Child guide.

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