You want to know (1) the types of services Connecticut Legal Services (CLS) provides, (2) the asset and income eligibility guidelines for getting CLS legal aid for a rental problem, and (3) whether someone denied such aid may appeal.

CLS SERVICES

According to its website, CLS is a “private civil law firm dedicated to helping low-income families and individuals obtain justice. The bulk of our work consists of providing civil law representation and counseling to thousands of low-income families and individuals each year. We help our clients use the law to meet basic life needs. . .[covering areas such as]: housing and homelessness; public benefits and employment; domestic violence and other family law matters; health law, including Medicaid, Medicare, and nursing home matters; education and juvenile law; consumer law; and mental retardation and disability law.” http://www.connlegalservices.org/aboutcls.htm

INCOME GUIDELINES

To qualify for CLS aid, an applicant's household income must be less than 125% of the federal poverty level (FPL). If the income is between 125% and 187.5% of the FPL, CLS can deduct certain household expenses to bring it down to less than 125%. These deductibles include childcare or day care costs, child support, transportation to work expenses, self-paid medical expenses, cost of uniforms and equipment necessary for work, wage executions, and payments on overdue taxes. If the income exceeds 187.5% of the FPL, CLS does not provide legal aid (although in the course of determining eligibility, CLS will often be able to provide referral information or self-help pamphlets without charge even if applicants prove over-income).  

Table 1 shows the current federal poverty guidelines. Applicants for aid must report the income of every household member (including gross wages, child support, alimony, Social Security benefits, rent, and unemployment compensation).

ASSET GUIDELINES

An applicant is ineligible for services if the household's net assets exceed $5,000.00. Assets are considered only to the extent that they are accessible to the applicant for obtaining legal counsel. Ownership of non-liquid assets are considered only if they can realistically be converted to cash without unduly disrupting the applicant's living conditions and without adversely affecting the applicant's legal position.

Applicants receiving or applying for State Administered General Assistance (SAGA), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Social Security Income (SSI), State Supplement, or Medicaid are presumed not to have excess assets. Assets are not considered if the applicant has no income and is using “the principal” in order to meet necessary living expenses.

The following are not counted in calculating an applicant's assets: (i) equity in a principal residence, (2) one car, (3) personal and household effects, (4) equipment the applicant or a relative uses for employment or self employment, and (5) cash value of life insurance or pension.

The CLS executive director may waive the asset limits in unusual or extremely meritorious situations. Written authorization of any waiver must be kept in the client's file.

APPEALS

CLS has a complaint process for any client with a concern about applications or assistance.  Clients must first speak with the managing attorney of the office in which they requested assistance.  If their concern is not resolved, they may speak with the executive director, Steven Eppler-Epstein, who can be reached at (860) 344-0447 x109.

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