(1) The preliminary finding becomes a final finding when:

(a) The department notifies the individual of a preliminary finding and the individual does not ask for an administrative hearing within the time frame provided under WAC 388-97-0740;

(b) The individual requested an administrative hearing to appeal the preliminary finding and the administrative law judge:

(i) Dismisses the appeal following withdrawal of the appeal or default;

(ii) Dismisses the appeal for failure to comply with the time limits under WAC 388-97-0760; or

(iii) Issues an initial order upholding the finding; or

(c) The board of appeals reverses an administrative law judge's initial order and issues a final order upholding the preliminary finding.

(2) A final finding is permanent, except under the circumstances described in (3).

(3) A final finding may be removed from the department's registry and, as appropriate, any other department lists under the following circumstances:

(a) The department determines the finding was made in error;

(b) The finding is rescinded following judicial review;

(c) At least one year after a single finding of neglect has been finalized, the department may remove the finding of neglect from the department's registry or department lists based upon a written petition by the individual and in accordance with requirements of federal law, 42 U.S.C. 1396r (g)(1)(D); or

(d) The department is notified of the individual's death.