Attachment 1 - CareerSource Palm Beach County
Transcription
Attachment 1 - CareerSource Palm Beach County
Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: Procurement Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: CN-011 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 05/04/2011 AUTHOR NAME: Sharon Brea LAST UPDATE DATE: 2011-04-18 17:32:20 BY: Sharon Brea AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: Contracts DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 05/04/2011 Initial Issue 1.0 PURPOSE: To provide Workforce Alliance, Inc. and The Palm Beach Workforce Development Consortium (hereinafter referred to collectively as Workforce Alliance) staff with the procurement procedure to ensure the purchase of goods and services is conducted in an open manner resulting in competitive pricing, proper management, and oversight controls to ensure fiscal accountability, efficiency, prevent waste, fraud and abuse. 2.0 APPLICATION: This procedure applies to all Workforce Alliance, Inc. and The Palm Beach Workforce Development Consortium (hereinafter referred to collectively as WorkforceAlliance) purchases. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. Workforce Alliance: Workforce Alliance, Inc. and/or The Palm Beach Workforce Development Consortium. 2. Vendor Collectively vendor, contractor, subrecipient, consultant. 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Section 445.007. Florida Statutes Section 112.3143(1)(b), Florida Statutes Section 112.312(2), Florida Statutes Section 112.326, Florida Statutes 2 CFR 215 Uniform Administrative Requirements For Non-Profit Organizations State of Florida Specific Appropriation 2214 of the 2010 General Appropriations Act 2010 Appropriations Implementation Bill Concerning Regional Workforce Board Contracting 8. Workforce Alliance, Inc. Procurement Policies & Procedures Manual 9. OMB Circular A-110 Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Other Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals and Other Non-Profit Organizations (11/19/1993) (further amended 09/30/1999) 10. Article XIII. Code of Ethics (Cross references: Commission on Ethics, §2-254 et seq.); Palm Beach County Ordinance 2009-51 as amended by Palm Beach Ordinance 2010-043 11. 20 CFR § 667.200(a)(4) Administrative Provisions Under Title I of The Workforce Investment Act 12. Section 117(g), Workforce Investment Act of 1998 13. 29 CFR 95.42 Grants And Agreements With Institutions Of Higher Education, Hospitals, And Other Non-Profit Organizations, And With Commercial Organizations, Foreign Governments, Organizations Under The Jurisdiction Of Foreign Governments, And International Organizations 14. 29 CFR 97.36(b)(3) Uniform Administrative Requirements For Grants And Cooperative Agreements To State And Local Governments 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. Internet Access 2. Quality Documentation System 3. Workforce Alliance, Inc. Procurement Policies & Procedures Manual 6.0 PROCEDURE: Workforce Alliance property and procurement responsibilities are decentralized. The Operations Department is responsible for procurement functions relating to data processing equipment, furniture and equipment and vehicles. All others purchases are made by the department needing the item on an as needed basis. If the item is included in the budget and is $5,000 or less, no additional approval is required. However, purchases for items not included in the budget, and budgeted items over $5,000 require prior approval from the Chief Executive Officer/President. The staff purchasing the goods and/or services is responsible for ensuring that Workforce Alliance’s policies and procedures are adhered to. The staff is also responsible for the following: Ensuring that procurement transactions are adequately documented. At a minimum, documentation should include the basis for contractor selection, justification for lack of competition when competitive bids or offers are not obtained, basis for award cost or price and disclosure of any conflict of interest in accordance with Standard Operating Procedure CN-004 and any amendments thereto. Performing price and cost analysis both before the purchase is made and after selection of a proposed contract award is made to determine reasonableness and that the cost is allowable. Maintaining procurement files. Overseeing the management of contracts and follow-up correspondence. The CEO/President and the Chief Financial Officer are responsible for educating all employees with property and procurement responsibilities on the Federal and State laws relating to property and procurement. Prior to approving the purchase of goods and services, the approver (See Workforce Alliance Procurement Policies & Procedures Manual Article IIA- Board of Directors-Authority Level Chart) must ensure that the expenditure is appropriate and necessary, and that funds are available to facilitate the purchase. This includes lease/rental versus purchase options. When such options exist, a price analysis must be performed. The lease/purchase of luxury automobiles is prohibited. The approver is also responsible for ensuring that the expenditure is reasonable in value and that the purchasing procedures are in compliance with Workforce Alliance policy. Funds availability and the six (6)-segment general ledger code verification must be obtained from the Finance Department (Chief Financial Officer or an Accountant) for all transactions, except petty cash. All purchase requisitions must be coded with the proper six (6)-segment general ledger code before the purchase is made. Any person who fails to observe these control mechanisms risks being held personally liable for the purchase amount and may receive a letter of reprimand or other disciplinary action. 1. PURCHASING REQUIREMENTS Some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement file in connection with every purchase action noted below. Price analysis may be accomplished in various ways, including the comparison of price quotations submitted, market prices and similar indicia, together with discounts. Cost analysis is the review and evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness, allocability and allowability. Workforce Alliance Finance staff are responsible for maintaining documentation of all purchases. NOTE: Categories A. and B. below do not include the purchases of office supplies or office furniture. Office supplies and office furniture are purchased by Workforce Alliance from approved vendor(s) obtained through the competitive RFP process stated in category C. below. Prior to a Workforce Alliance employee participating in any stage of the procurement process including, but not limited to, the development of specifications, scopes of work, answering procurement questions or evaluating bids/submittals/quotes/proposals (collectively referred to as “quote”) the Alliance employee shall certify that a Conflict of Interest is not present. Vendor, contractor, subrecipient and consultant are collectively referred to as “vendor”. Beginning with issuance of the procurement vendors may submit questions regarding the procurement via e-mail to Workforce Alliance. The vendor questions and Workforce Alliance’s answer to the vendor questions are not provided verbally to vendor(s) but are posted on the Workforce Alliance website. Vendors with a Federal or State contract for the same/similar goods or services may be utilized in lieu of publicly noticing the procurement and obtaining quotes. Some form of cost or price analysis shall be made and documented in the procurement file in connection with every purchase action. Price analysis may be accomplished in various ways, including the comparison of price quotations submitted, market prices and similar indicia, together with discounts. Cost analysis is the review and evaluation of each element of cost to determine reasonableness, allocability and allowability. Prior written approval is required from the funding source for equipment purchases over $5,000. Exceptions to the below procurement threshold are when purchases are made during an emergency or are sole sourced. Sole source documentation is required in accordance with OMB Circular A-110 and Workforce Alliance Procurement Policies & Procedures Manual Article V.A. Section 4. Other purchase thresholds and public notice requirements are as follows: A. PURCHASES OF $10,000 AND LESS - Considered a small purchase in the aggregate that does not exceed $10,000 per Workforce Alliance fiscal year (July 1 through June 30). Written quotes are not required for these purchases. However, it is always in the best interest of Workforce Alliance to ensure that a fair market price is obtained. The goods or services are available from a variety of vendors at comparable prices. A vendor is identified on the basis of availability, most appropriate quality and best price, not necessarily the lowest. There are no public notice requirements for purchases of $10,000 and less. B. PURCHASES OF MORE THAN $10,000 AND LESS THAN $100,000 - A minimum of three written quotes are required for these purchases. The quotes must be attached to the Purchase Order. Vendor selection must be made based on vendor qualifications, product quality and availability, and competitive price as stated in the vendor quote solicited by Workforce Alliance. All quotes must be submitted by a time certain, enclosed in a sealed envelope and opened at the same time by one employee of Workforce Alliance witnessed by another employee of Workforce Alliance. Vendors with a Federal or State contract may be utilized in lieu of obtaining quotes. Purchases of more than $10,000 and less than $100,000 shall be publicly noticed on the Workforce Alliance website and Palm Beach County Public Affairs Department Channel 20. C. PURCHASES OF $100,000 OR MORE - A minimum of three written quotes are required for these purchases. Vendor selection must be made based on vendor qualifications, product quality and availability, and competitive price as stated in the vendor quote solicited by Workforce Alliance. Vendors with a Federal or State contract may be utilized in lieu of issuing a RFP/RFQ. Purchases of $100,000 or more shall be publicly noticed on the Workforce Alliance website and Palm Beach County Public Affairs Department Channel 20 and a local newspaper. A RFP/RFQ is issued by Performance Analysis staff. D. Contracts with consultants whose total compensation will exceed $50,000 during any fiscal year shall be subject to the approval of the Finance Committee as soon as it is reasonably determined that the consultant’s compensation will exceed $50,000. Workforce Alliance property and procurement activities shall be conducted in a manner consistent with the standards set forth in the OMB Circulars, and all other applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government and the State of Florida. In order to ensure objective contractor performance and eliminate unfair competitive advantage, any Workforce Alliance employee who has a financial or other personal interest in a procurement or who may have a member of his or her immediate family, his or her partner, or an organization which employs or contracts with or is about to employ or contract with any member of his or her immediate family who has a financial or other personal interest in the procurement shall not be allowed to develop or draft specifications, scopes of work, requirements, statements of work, invitations for bids and/or requests for proposals or participate in the selection or contract award process. Prior to an employee participating in any stage of the procurement process including, but not limited to, the development of specifications, scope of work, or answering bidders conference questions shall be required to sign a Staff Conflict of Interest/Non-Disclosure Statement (see below) and recuse themselves in the event an actual or apparent conflict of interest may exist. To avoid a conflict of interest, all vendors who have any financial and/or family/relative relationship(s) as defined in Section 112.3143, Florida Statutes and Article XIII. Code of Ethics (Cross references: Commission on Ethics, §2-254 et seq.); Palm Beach County Ordinance 200951 as amended by Palm Beach Ordinance 2010-043, with any Alliance staff member or Alliance Board, Alliance Committee or Consortium member must clearly disclose such a relationship by completing and submitting the Vendor Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form when submitting a bid/submittal/quote/proposal (quote) to Workforce Alliance. Financial or family relationships with vendors will disqualify an Alliance staff member, Alliance Board member, Alliance Committee or Consortium member from participating in the discussion and voting to fund quotes and will also disqualify any individual from evaluating quotes. No information obtained in reviewing proposal/quotes in a solicitation shall be communicated to anyone not also participating in the procurement. Specifically, there shall be no disclosure of the number of respondents to the solicitation, the names of individuals or organizations that respond, nor will there be a disclosure of any information from technical or cost/pricing submissions of proposals or offers except to other reviewers officially assigned to a solicitation. If anyone outside the official review chain seeks information about a procurement, he/she will not supply any information, but will refer to the Alliance, CEO/President for action consistent with the Florida Public Records Act (Florida Statute 119) and the Federal Freedom of Information Act. Solicitations and preparation of the scope of work are part of the procurement selection process and facilitating vendor payments (approving check requests and check signing) is also part of the administration process of a contract. Contracts with an organization or individual represented on the Workforce Alliance Board of Directors must be approved by a two-thirds vote of the entire Workforce Alliance Board, and the Workforce Alliance Board member who could benefit financially from the transaction must abstain from voting on the contract. A Board member who has a conflict of interest in any contract considered by the Board shall disclose his or her interest during the Board meeting and have the disclosure noted in the official Board minutes. A Workforce Alliance Board member with a conflict of interest will: a) not take part in the discussion of or vote on any question in respect of the matter; b) immediately leave the meeting or the part of the meeting during which the matter is under consideration; c) not attempt in any way, whether before, during or after the meeting, to influence the opinion or vote of the Board on any question in respect of the matter; and d) not attempt in any way to influence the employee, board or committee member in carrying out his or her duties. e) No Workforce Alliance Board member shall serve as a reviewer on a proposal for which he or she may have a conflict of interest. Nor shall a Board member participate in the discussion on a matter at a meeting of the Alliance Board or vote on a matter if he/she has a conflict of interest and must leave the room during both discussion and voting on that matter. At convened Workforce Alliance Board meetings, Board members with a conflict of interest are: a) excluded from discussion except to provide information requested by the Board; b) excluded from voting; c) must leave the meeting room for discussion and voting (except to provide information requested by the Board); d) not counted towards the quorum. Workforce Alliance staff will document in the official Board minutes that the Board member left the room during the discussion and voting on the matter, with an indication that a conflicting interest was the reason for the absence. Several mechanisms are used to remind Board members about conflicts of interest. These include reminders on the Board agenda, a statement in the email sent to Board members and reminder at the convened Board meeting to disclose conflicts of interests. Contracts equal to or greater than $25,000 with an Workforce Alliance Board member or other person or entity who could benefit financially from the contract as defined in paragraph Section 112.312(2), Florida Statutes must be reviewed by the Agency For Workforce Innovation and approved by Workforce Florida, Inc. If the work/services or product provided in the quote requires prior approval of the Alliance Board of Directors and impacts the Alliance’s ability to perform its duties/tasks in a timely manner or in the event of an emergency as determined by the President/CEO, the quote submitted by the vendor who has a conflict of interest relationship will not be considered by Alliance. Staff procurement selection teams have been pre-designated to ensure staff expertise is included in the bidder and selection award process. Staff’s recommendation is forwarded to the Alliance CEO/President or Alliance Board of Directors if applicable for review and approval. Staff procurement teams have been designated for the following areas: FACILITIES (to include office supplies, office furniture, all products, services paid through the Operations budget): IT Director, Director of Facilities, CFO, Finance Accountant HUMAN RESOURCES: HR Manager, HR Support Manager BUSINESS SERVICES: Vice President Business Services, Sr. Manager Business Services, Manager Business Services PROGRAMS (Gas Cards, Childcare, Youth, all products, services paid through the Programs budget): Client Services Director, Senior Director of Client Services, WTP Program Director, WIA Youth Program Director, Director Performance Analysis In the event a staff member as indicated above is unavailable when needed at the time of a procurement, the Alliance CEO/President may substitute another Alliance staff member to participate on a procurement team. Workforce Alliance has adopted the following policy statements: Consideration should be given to include Prison Rehabilitative Industries and Diversified Enterprises, Inc. (PRIDE) in the procurement of bids for the services offered by PRIDE. Employees, officers, board members or agents of Alliance shall not participate in the selection, award or administration of a contract of any type in which they or their family members or partners or organization have a financial interest or the possibility of future employment. Employees, officers, board members or agents of the Alliance shall neither solicit nor accept gratuities, favors or anything of monetary value from contractors or potential contractors. However, unsolicited gifts of a nominal value may be accepted with the approval of the Chief Executive Officer. Disciplinary actions shall be applied to individuals who violate this rule. All procurement transactions shall be conducted in a manner to provide, to the maximum extent practical, open, fair and free competition, in order to ensure objective contractor performance and eliminate unfair competitive advantage. Contractors who develop or draft specifications and other requirements of a Alliance solicitation instrument, such as RFP, shall be excluded from competing for such procurement unless the specifications and information is gathered at a publicly noticed meeting. Awards shall be made to the vendor whose offer is responsive to the solicitation and is most advantageous to the Alliance, price and other factors considered. Solicitations shall clearly set forth all requirements that the vendor must fulfill in order for the offer to be evaluated. Any and all offers may be rejected when it is in the best interest of the Alliance. The goal of the Alliance is to utilize minority-owned firms and women’s business enterprises, which have been certified by the state, to further the objective of our program. Alliance will at its discretion attempt to utilize organizations or businesses from the local environment whenever possible. Consideration should be given to include local vendors in the procurement of bids for the services offered. 2. SELECTION OF CONTRACT AWARDEES The party to whom a contract is awarded are selected as the result of evaluation of the proposals or quotes submitted by the party together with other relevant factors such as Alliance’s prior experience with the party and past performance. The evaluation of proposals and applications is based upon criteria developed for the procurement and set forth in the applicable solicitation. Criteria for selection includes, but is not limited to, the following factors: 1. Ability to Perform 2. Record of Past Performance 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Technical and Financial Resources Reasonableness of Cost Cost/price Analysis Record of Integrity, business Ethics, and Fiscal Accountability Availability of Services On-site Visit if Necessary Vendor has paid all Federal, State and other taxes as may be required by law and that there are no tax liens filed against Vendor and no judgments entered against Vendor which have not been fully satisfied, discharged and released as of the date of the Agreement. 10. Evaluation criteria included in the procurement documents. Proposals are reviewed at several levels. Workforce Alliance staff review proposals for completeness and compliance with the information and documentation required per the procurement document. Proposals are then reviewed by a committee for selection. The committee presents its selection to the CEO/President and/or Board and/or Palm Beach Workforce Development Consortium for approval depending on the dollar value or type of the procurement. 3. PROTEST PROCEDURES Proposal or quotes not recommended for selection are informed of this action in writing and advised of the availability of a protest process. All procurement protests shall comply with Standard Operating Procedure OC-010. 4. NON-COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS EMERGENCY SITUATIONS- In the event of an emergency as determined by the President/CEO, the first available supplier of the needed product or services can be used. However, sequential procurements must follow the standard procedures. This procurement is used when an emergency exists and competitive procurement would prolong the attainment of assistance in removal or reduction of the emergency. Emergency is defined as a physical threat to the safety or well being of Workforce Alliance staff, subcontractors’ staff and/or program participants or a problem that requires immediate attention. Vendors with a Federal or State contract may be utilized in lieu of a competitive negotiation. SOLE SOURCE-If in all procurement activities discussed above, services are available from only one source, the transaction becomes justified as a “sole source”. A supplier has a unique capacity to provide the service or supplies (i.e., certain curriculum or training equipment that is available only through the developer or manufacturer). The CEO/President must approve sole source transaction. Sole Source justification documentation may contain the following: a) b) c) d) e) f) A description of the goods or services required. Justification for sole source-sole supplier, emergency or unique capacity. Description of emergency or problem and where it exists. Description of the proposed supplier’s unique capacity to fill requirement. Description of actions taken to get one or more quotes. Any other documentation that supports the recommendation and decision. ITEMS NOT SUBJECT TO COMPETITIVE BID - The following contractual services and commodities are not subject to the competitive sealed bid requirements of this section: a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h) i) j) k) l) m) n) o) Artistic services Academic program reviews Lectures by individuals Auditing services Legal services, including attorney, paralegal, expert witness, appraisal, or mediator services Health services involving examination, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, medical consultation, or administration. Services provided to persons with mental or physical disabilities by not-for-profit corporations which have obtained exemptions under the provisions of s.501 (c) (3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code or when such services are governed by the provisions of Office of Management and Budget Circular A-122. However, in acquiring such services, the agency shall consider the ability of the contractor, past performance, willingness to meet time requirements, and price. Medicaid services delivered to an eligible Medicaid recipient by a health care provider who has not previously applied for and received a Medicaid provider number from the Agency for Health Care Administration. However, this exception shall be valid for a period not to exceed 90 days after the date of delivery to the Medicaid recipient and shall not be renewed by the agency. Family placement services Prevention services related to mental health, including drug abuse prevention programs, child abuse prevention programs, and shelters for runaways, operated by not-for-profit corporations. However, in acquiring such services, the agency shall consider the ability of the contractor, past performance, willingness to meet time requirements, and price. Training and education services provided to injured employees pursuant to Florida s.440.49(1). Contracts entered into pursuant to Florida s.337.11. Services or commodities provided by governmental agencies. Continuing education events or programs that are offered to the general public and for which fees have been collected that pay all expenses associated with the event or program are exempt from competitive sealed bidding. If less than two responsive bids or proposals for commodity or contractual services purchases are received, Workforce Alliance may negotiate on the best terms and conditions. Workforce Alliance shall document the reasons that such action is in its best interest in lieu of re-soliciting competitive sealed bids or proposals. 5. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Workforce Alliance is governed by a Board of Directors (the “Board”). The Board is comprised of individuals who represent private sector business, economic developments, education, organized labor, community based organizations, and state and local government agencies. Workforce Alliance provides adequate Directors and Officers liability insurance for its Board. The Finance Committee and Executive Committee are subcommittees of the Board. A joint meeting is held for the Executive Board and the Finance Committee. The CEO and CFO attend these meetings and present the Monthly Financial Reporting Package for the organization. In addition, the Executive Board and Finance Committee are responsible for reviewing the annual audit and compliance report. Pursuant to the Workforce Innovation Act of 2000, if Alliance enters into a contract with an organization or individual represented on the Board of Directors, the contract must be approved by a two-thirds vote of the entire Board, and the Board member who could benefit financially from the transaction must abstain from voting on the contract. A Board member must disclose any such conflict of interest in a manner consistent with the procedures outlined in the Florida Statutes. For the purposes of this section, the “entire Board” shall mean the total number of current members appointed to the Board less any vacancy. If the work/services or product provided in the quote requires prior approval of the Workforce Alliance Board of Directors and impacts the Workforce Alliance’s ability to perform its duties/tasks in a timely manner or in the event of an emergency as determined by the President/CEO, the quote submitted by the vendor/Workforce Alliance Board member who has a conflict of interest relationship will not be considered by Workforce Alliance. While an “agency,” (as defined in s. 112.312(2), Florida Statutes), is exempt from the Workforce Florida, Inc. Contracting Policy, an “agency” is not exempt from the WIA “conflict of interest” provisions and the CFR fiscal and administrative requirements.” When an “agency” is represented by a member of the Board and the Board is approving a contract for that “agency” providing services, the member of the local Board who represents the “agency” should (under Florida law) disclose the conflict and must (under the CFR fiscal and administrative rules and WIA law) not participate in any decision-making capacity and must not vote on the matter. In a “conflict of interest” situation, when the contract for services is with an “agency,” (as defined in s. 112.312(2), Florida Statutes) represented by a Board member, the Board may approve the contract by a simple majority of those members present (subject to local quorum requirements and other local Board requirements, if any), the member with the “conflict of interest” not voting. Normally, under these circumstances, the two-thirds vote required in the Contracting Policy is not applicable. 7.0 FLOWCHARTS: N/A Attachment Files: View File Attachment: Procurement Checklist Form 4-18-11.pdf, Procurement Checklist Form 4-18-11 View File Attachment: Publication Of Award Letter Form.doc, Publication Of Award Letter Form View File Attachment: Staff Conflict Of Interest-Non-Disclosure Statement Form.pdf, Staff Conflict Of Interest-Non-Disclosure Statement Form View File Attachment: Vendor Conflict Of Interest Disclosure Form.pdf, Vendor Conflict Of Interest Disclosure Form SIGNATURE PAGE DOCUMENT APPROVALS (ELECTRONIC DISTRIBUTION PROCESS) NAME DOCUMENT NO: CN-011 ISSUE NO: 01 TITLE SIGNATURE DATE APPROVED Sharon Brea Author Sharon Brea 04/18/11 Don Scantlan Reviewer Don Scantlan 04/19/11 Peter Pignataro Administrator Peter Pignataro 04/19/11 Erica Scarpati Approver 1 Erica Scarpati 04/28/11 NAME Kathryn Schmidt TITLE FINAL APPROVAL SIGNATURE President/CEO Kathryn Schmidt DATE APPROVED 05/04/11 Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: Procurement, Contract Award and Provider Protests STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: QA-011 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 11/27/2007 AUTHOR NAME: Sharon Brea LAST UPDATE DATE: 2007-10-10 16:44:47 BY: Sharon Brea AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: Contracts DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 11/27/2007 Initial Issue 1.0 PURPOSE: This Standard Operating Procedure is written to provide: a. the procedure for a proposer or bidder to file a protest regarding a procurement b. the procedure regarding disallowed or questioned costs as a result of monitoring or audit findings c. the procedure to terminate a contract 2.0 APPLICATION: All Request For Proposal (RFP) or Bid protests shall comply with the policy set out in the procurement and the grievance procedures in Workforce Alliance, Inc.’s Local Workforce Services Two Year Plan approved by the State of Florida for these types of grievances. Reference 29 CFR Part 97 that directs State Grant Recipients to approve subrecipient procurement policies. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: RFP: CFR: Request For Proposal Code of Federal Regulations 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 29 CFR Part 97 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. 2. Internet Access Quality Documentation System Access 6.0 PROCEDURE: 1. PROTESTS TO REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL SPECIFICATIONS A. Any protest of the terms, conditions, or specifications in a Bid or RFP must be filed in writing and delivered to the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO within seventy two (72) hours of the first publication of the RFP or Bid. The time of the publication of the RFP or Bid shall be from the date at which notice of release of the Bid or RFP is first published in any newspaper. Calculation of the 72 hours commences on the date of publication without reference to the time published. B. Failure to file a written protest in accordance with paragraph C. below within seventy two (72) hours of the first posting of the RFP or Bid shall constitute a waiver of all rights and acceptance of the terms and conditions of the RFP or Bid and no other opportunity to protest the contents of the RFP will be considered. Protests may not be submitted electronically but must be in writing and delivered and received by the President/CEO of Workforce Alliance, Inc. within the established timeframes. C. The written protest shall state with particularity and specificity the sections of the RFP or Bid that are the basis of the protest and the law, State and/or Workforce Alliance, Inc. policies or procedures which have been violated. Each claim shall be numbered separately within the protest. The protest must also indicate the relief requested for each separate claim. Protests, which do not contain the required information, shall be deemed to be non-conforming and shall not be considered. Protesters may not file general letters or other communications to meet the time deadlines with the intent to cure or amend their protests after the time to file has expired. The responsibility for meeting this minimum threshold shall be with the entity or individual desiring to file a protest. Workforce Alliance, Inc. will not be responsible for notifying protesters of defects in their filing. D. Following receipt of the protest a meeting shall be set between Workforce Alliance, Inc. senior management personnel or the President/CEO or his/her designee and the protester for the purpose of informally resolving the protest. The results of the meeting shall be reduced to writing by Workforce Alliance, Inc. If the matter is resolved no further action shall be taken. If as a result of the informal meeting it is determined that changes be made to the specifications appropriate notice of amendment to the Bid or RFP specifications shall be posted on the Workforce Alliance, Inc. website and shall be sent to all known recipients of the original. This informal meeting to resolve the protest shall be scheduled within ten days after receipt of a properly and timely submitted protest. E. If the matter is not resolved informally, the Protester may present its protest at a hearing for the purpose of hearing the protest within twenty (20) days after the informal meeting. The hearing officer shall be selected by Workforce Alliance, Inc. All discovery shall take place within ten (10) days after the informal meeting and may include: a. b. c. F. A witness list from each party Any documents whether electronic or hard copies, that are relevant to the protest and not privileged information. Parties shall exchange witness lists and documents on the 10th day. Both parties will have the opportunity to present witnesses and documentary evidence at the hearing. Witnesses will be limited to three (3) for each side. The hearing shall be taped and the decision of the hearing officer shall be final G. Action of the hearing officer on the protest shall be the final avenue of appeal with respect to RFP or Bid specification protests. The hearing officer shall also make recommendations regarding any extensions to the time to respond to the Bid or RFP as a result of the protest. H. 2. Workforce Alliance, Inc. shall in its sole discretion make a determination regarding the continuation of the procurement process. Workforce Alliance, Inc. will post instructions regarding the procurement in question on its web site and shall be sent to all known recipients. Proposers may be instructed to submit responsive proposals in accordance with the time frames set forth in the RFP or Bid, or may be allowed to amend only those portions of its RFP or Bid affected by the protest or may be given additional time to respond to the Bid or the RFP. PROTESTS REGARDING DETERMINATIONS OF NON RESPONSIVENESS A. Any Protest of a determination by Workforce Alliance, Inc. staff regarding the responsiveness or non responsiveness of a proposal or bid submitted in response to a proposal or bid published by Workforce Alliance, Inc. must be filed in writing and delivered to the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO within seventy two (72) hours of receipt of notice from Workforce Alliance, Inc. that the bid or proposal response is non responsive. Calculation of the 72 hours commences on the date following receipt of notice without reference to the time notice was received. Notice may be certified mail return receipt requested federal express or electronically so long as receipt of the electronic message is acknowledged by the protester. The communication from Workforce Alliance, Inc. shall state the reasons that the proposal is found to be non responsive. B. Failure to file a written protest in accordance with paragraph 2. A. above and paragraph 2. C. below shall constitute a waiver of all rights and acceptance of the terms and conditions of the RFP or Bid and no other opportunity to protest the contents of the RFP will be considered. Protests may not be submitted electronically but must be in writing and delivered and received by the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO within the established timeframes. C. The written protest shall state with particularity and specificity the sections of the RFP or Bid which are responsive to the specifications and the law, State and/or Workforce Alliance, Inc. policies or procedures which have been violated. Each claim shall be numbered separately within the protest. The protest must also indicate the relief requested for each separate claim. Protests, which do not contain the required information, shall be deemed to be nonconforming and shall not be considered. Protesters may not file general letters or other communications to meet the time deadlines with the intent to cure or amend their protests after the time to file has expired. The responsibility for meeting this minimum threshold shall be with the entity or individual desiring to file a protest. Workforce Alliance, Inc. shall not be responsible for notifying protesters of defects in their filing. Only entities that have submitted a proposal or a bid may file a protest in connection with a determination of non responsiveness. D. Following receipt of the protest a meeting shall be set between Workforce Alliance, Inc. senior management personnel or the President/CEO or his/her designee and the Protester for the purpose of informally resolving the protest. The results of the meeting shall be reduced to writing by Workforce Alliance, Inc. If the matter is resolved no further action shall be taken. If as a result of the informal meeting it is determined that the proposal or bid is responsive the proposal or bid shall be evaluated and rated in accordance with the Workforce Alliance, Inc. process for the selection of service providers. E. If the matter is not resolved the Protester may present their grievance at hearing for the purpose of hearing the protest within twenty (20) days after the informal meeting. The hearing officer shall be selected by Workforce Alliance, Inc. All discovery if appropriate shall take place within ten (10) calendar days after the informal meeting and may include: a. b. c. a witness list from each party any documents whether electronic or hard copies, that are relevant to the protest and not privileged information. parties shall exchange witness lists and documents on the 10th day. F. Both parties will have the opportunity to present witnesses and documentary evidence at the hearing. Witnesses will be limited to three (3) for each side. The hearing shall be taped and the decision of the hearing officer shall be final G. Action of the hearing officer on the protest shall be the final avenue of appeal with respect to the responsiveness or non responsiveness of the RFP or Bid. 3. A. PROTEST TO CONTRACT AWARDS Any Protest of a contract award following the termination of a procurement process must be filed in writing and delivered to the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO within seventy two (72) hours of the publication of the award. The time of the publication of the award shall be the earlier of: The date at which notice of the award is published by Workforce Alliance, Inc. with respect to procurements not subject to Workforce Alliance, Inc. Board approval, or b. The date on which the Workforce Alliance, Inc. Board of Directors meet at a publicly noticed meeting and vote on or approve the award. a. B. Failure to file within seventy two (72) hours of the publication of the award shall constitute a waiver of all rights and no other opportunity to protest the award of the contract will be considered. C. Only responsive entities or individuals who have submitted a responsive proposal within the timeframe for submission published in the RFP or Bid may protest an award. Protests of awards are limited to claims with respect to any violation of law and/or regulations, or defect in the evaluation process. The written protest must shall separately number each claim and at a minimum include: b. A descriptive recital of the facts pertaining to the protest, and c. A citation of the law and/or regulation, policy or procedure allegedly violated. a. D. Following receipt of the protest a meeting shall be set within five to ten (5-10) days of receipt between Workforce Alliance, Inc. senior management personnel or the President/CEO or his/her designee and the Protester for the purpose of informally resolving the protest. If the parties agree that the protest is meritorious Workforce Alliance, Inc. will take proper action to remedy the situation. If the matter is resolved no further action shall be taken. The parties may also agree to waive their rights to further relief. If the parties do not agree the protest will proceed through the grievance process established herein. The results of the informal meeting shall be reduced to writing by Workforce Alliance, Inc. If the parties agree to waive their rights to any further relief this decision shall be reduced to a writing and signed by both parties prior to the close of the informal meeting. The party bringing the protest will be barred from any other protest with respect to the RFP or Bid in question. E. If the Protestor is not satisfied with the decision of the Workforce Alliance, Inc. senior management personnel or the President/CEO or his/her designee during the informal resolution meeting then Workforce Alliance, Inc. shall assign the matter to a Hearing Officer to be selected by Workforce Alliance, Inc. F. The hearing shall take place within twenty (20) calendar days of the informal meeting. All discovery shall take place within ten (10) calendar days after the informal meeting and may include: a. b. c. A witness list from each party Any documents whether electronic or hard copies relevant to the protest and not privileged information. Parties shall exchange witness lists and documents on the 10th day. G. Both parties will have the opportunity to present witnesses and documentary evidence at the hearing. Witnesses will be limited to three (3) for each side. H. The hearing before the hearing officer shall be recorded. I. The Hearing Officer shall issue a recommendation within ten (10) days of the hearing. J. The recommendations of the hearing officer shall be final. 5. DISPUTES RELATED TO THE NEGOTIATION OF TERMS AND OR CONDITIONS OF AGREEMENTS OR WITH RESPECT TO THE FULFILLMENT OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE PROVIDER AGREEMENTS FOLLOWING EXECUTION A. If the parties fail to reach an agreement during contract negotiations. Workforce Alliance, Inc. senior management personnel or the President/CEO or his/her designee may elect to meet with the prospective provider. A summary of the issues in dispute shall be prepared for the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO and shall include all aspects of the negotiations that can not be resolved. A copy of the report detailing the issues in contention along with a staff recommendation shall be provided to the prospective contractor, who shall also have an opportunity to submit a summary of the issues and the relief they are requesting along with reason and or rationale therefore. The two reports must be prepared in accordance with the schedule for distribution to the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO which shall be provided to the parties. Written documents related to the dispute will not be allowed to be distributed the day of the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO meeting. B. The Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO shall determine whether Workforce Alliance, Inc. should proceed with the next best proposer or continue with the negotiation process. The Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO shall make the final decision and the contract process will continue reflecting that decision. C. If during the course of providing services under a duly executed agreement Workforce Alliance, Inc. and a provider have a dispute with respect to the terms and or conditions of the executed agreement, Workforce Alliance, Inc. senior management personnel shall meet with the provider to try and resolve the issue. If an agreement cannot be reached, Workforce Alliance, Inc. senior management personnel shall forward the issues in dispute to the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO. A summary of the issues in dispute shall be prepared for the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO and shall include a statement with respect to matter(s) in dispute. A copy of the report detailing the issues in contention along with a staff recommendation shall be provided to the contractor, who shall also have an opportunity to submit a summary of the issues and the relief they are requesting along with reason and or rationale therefore. The two reports must be prepared in accordance with the schedule for distribution of the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO which shall be provided to the parties. Written documents related to the dispute will not be allowed to be distributed the day of the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO meeting. D. Both Workforce Alliance, Inc. and the contractor shall have an opportunity to make a statement to the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO and may answer questions posed by the Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO. E. The Workforce Alliance, Inc. President/CEO shall then determine the issues and shall make the final decision with respect to matter(s) in contention. 6. PROCEDURE FOR MONITORING AND AUDIT FINDINGS A. If as a result of federal state or local monitoring or audit any costs are found to be disallowed or questioned, Workforce Alliance, Inc. shall set up an informal meeting or shall communicate in writing to the contractor regarding the results of the findings in the report, at which time the contractor shall have the opportunity to submit any primary documentation to disprove the negative findings. B. Following a review of the contractor’s response Workforce Alliance, Inc. shall issue a written determination which will state whether or not questioned costs are allowed or disallowed and whether or not corrective actions regarding any administrative findings are adequate. C. Any proposal regarding the resolution of the findings shall be subject to state and or federal approval as appropriate. If Workforce Alliance, Inc. finds that the questioned costs are in fact disallowed it shall include within its determination all repayment options that are available to the provider including but not limited to an automatic reimbursement plan that will be deducted from the providers invoices or such other relief as may have been set forth in the contract between the parties and other corrective action related to the findings. D. If the findings are a result of state or federal monitoring, audit or reviews and Workforce Alliance, Inc. elects to appeal the findings in accordance with the process provided by the State or Federal authorities, the contractor shall cooperate with Workforce Alliance, Inc. in providing the necessary information to respond to the findings and shall be bound by the decision of the state or federal authorities. The decision of whether or not to appeal findings shall be solely at the discretion of Workforce Alliance, Inc. 7. PROCEDURE FOR TERMINATION OF CONTRACT A. TERMINATION OF SUBRECIPIENT CONTRACT TERMINATION FOR CONVENIENCE: Workforce Alliance, Inc. reserves the right to terminate the contract at any time for any reason for convenience, upon giving Contractor no less than thirty (30) calendar days written notice prior to the effective date of such proposed action. If said contract should be terminated for convenience as provided herein, Workforce Alliance, Inc. will be relieved of all obligations under said Contract and all compensation to Contractor under the contract shall cease pending completion of a final Contract Closeout Report and any additional closing audit required by Workforce Alliance, Inc. due to the termination of the contract. Such termination shall not be an exclusive remedy but shall be in addition to any other rights, sanctions and remedies provided by law or under this contract. TERMINATION FOR BREACH: Unless the other Party’s breach is waived either Party, whether Workforce Alliance, Inc. or Contractor, may terminate the contract for said breach upon no less than thirty (30) calendar days written notice prior to the effective date of such proposed action. Under this provision, the offended Party will provide the other Party with written notification of intent to terminate the contract due to breach and will provide the other Party seven (7) calendar days to respond to the notice of termination and propose a cure to the breach. The offended Party will, within seven (7) additional calendar days from receipt of the other Party’s response issue a written decision either to accept the other Party’s proposed cure or to proceed with the termination. Waiver of a breach of any provision of the contract shall not be deemed to be a modification to the Contract. If said contract should be terminated by Workforce Alliance, Inc. due to Contractor breach, Workforce Alliance, Inc. will be relieved of all obligations under said contract and all compensation to Contractor under the contract shall cease pending completion of a final Contract Closeout Report and any additional closing audit required by Workforce Alliance, Inc. due to the termination of the contract. Such termination WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. ACCOUNTING POLICIES & PROCEDURES MANUAL Update: 3/9/09 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. WORKFORCE ALLIANCE TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S F O R A C C O U N T I N G P O L I C I E S & P R O C E D U R E S M A N U A L I. GENERAL INFORMATION A. Organization Overview and Goal B. Basis of Accounting & Chart of Accounts C. Not-For-Profit Characteristics D. Authoritative Sources E. Program Cycle II. PEOPLE A. Board of Directors and Finance Committee B. Accounting Staff III. INTERNAL CONTROL A. Internal Control Policy B. Computer Security C. Monitoring Activities for Agency & Service Providers IV. CASH & INVESTMENTS A. General B. Cash Receipts – Electronic Funds C. Other Cash Receipts D. Cash Disbursements E. Investments F. Reconciliation G. Petty Cash V. BUDGETING A. Planning B. Monitoring VI. REVENUES AND RECEIVABLES A. Revenue Recognition & Receivables B. Revenue Sources VII. EXPENSES FOR PROGRAM & SUPPORTING SERVICES & ACCOUNTS PAYABLE A. Purchasing B. Encumbrances C. Accounts Payable D. Accounts Payable – One-Stop Operator Payments E. Accounts Payable - Individual Training Agent (ITA) Payments F. Accounts Payable - Support Service Payments G. Accounts Payable – Payments for Grant Contracts H. Employee Travel I. Agency Credit Cards 2 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. WORKFORCE ALLIANCE OUTLINE FOR ACCOUNTING POLICIES & PROCEDURES MANUAL VIII. PAYROLL & RELATED LIABILITIES A. New Employee & Change in Employee Status Procedures B. Payroll Procedures with ADP C. Payroll Liabilities D. Employee Advances IX. DEBT, LIABILITIES, & NET ASSETS A. Debt & Other Liabilities B. Net Assets X. PROPERTY & EQUIPMENT A. Acquisition and Disposition of Fixed Assets B. Depreciation XI. COST ALLOCATION PLAN XII. MONTH-END & YEAR-END CLOSING /REPORTING PROCEDURES A. Month-End Closing/Reporting Procedures B. Year-End Closing/Reporting Procedures C. Annual Financial Audit XIII. HOUSEKEEPING A. Computer Maintenance and Disaster Recovery B. Records Retention XIV. APPENDIX A. Copy of Articles of Incorporation & By-Laws B. IRS Final Ruling Letter on Tax-Exempt Status C. Copy of most recent IRS Form 990 D. Copy of most recent Audited Financial Statements E. Accounting Staff Responsibilities F. MIP Processing Procedures 3 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. I.A. ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW AND GOAL Purpose: To provide an overview of Workforce Alliance and its mission. Workforce Alliance, Inc. (WA) is a private non-profit organization and the designated recipient of grants and awards. WA was organized on January 1, 1997 and operates under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and the Florida Senate Bill 2050. The Organization assumed responsibilities of the administration of Workforce Investment Act (WIA) grant funds as well as other responsibilities from the Palm Beach County Private Industry Council, Inc. (the Council) whose operation were terminated effective December 31, 1996. The Organization amended its bylaws to include the Work and Gain Economic Self-Sufficient (the WAGES) Coalition. In fiscal year 2001, the Florida legislature renamed WAGES to Welfare Transition Program (WTP). WTP is funded primarily through the Federal Temporary Assistance to Needy Families Program (TANF). WA oversees the planning and implementation of workforce development and WTP (TANF) programs for Palm Beach County. The overall goal of WA is to provide employers and job seekers with innovative and comprehensive services that will lead to business and personal success. 4 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. I.B. BASIS OF ACCOUNTING & CHART OF ACCOUNTS Purpose: To establish the basis of accounting and chart of accounts used by WA when recording day-to-day transactions as well as issuing year-end financial statements. WA’s fiscal year end is June 30, which coincides with the program years of most of its funding sources. WA uses a modified accrual basis of fund accounting except at year end when full accrual accounting is used. Revenue is recognized and recorded after the funds have been requested (automated draw-down via State’s One Stop Management Information System - OSMIS) from the funding source or when the funding source has been invoiced. At fiscal year end all revenue receivable is recorded, and expenses are accrued. In order to ensure the observance of limitations, restrictions, and reporting requirements placed on the use of the various funding available to the organization, WA utilizes the MIP NonProfit Series fund accounting software system. This system allows complex coding that accounts for multiple programs (funds) within one general (G/L). The chart of accounts is divided into seven segments as follows: Program Year – used to record the program year of the funding source Funding Source – used to record the specific program or pool. General Ledger – accounts for assets, liabilities, net assets, revenues, and expenses Cost Category – used to record the cost category within a funding source Department – used to record the activity associated with each location or department FAS- use to record the asset category: unrestricted or restricted Participant – to record the ID# of a client in the Gazelle program. The Funding Source segment has been set up as a Fund Type, allowing the system to report balance sheet information as well as revenue and expense information for each program. The chart of accounts for WA is designed to track and collect data related to each funding source by both program year and cost category, allowing for integration between the accounting system and the State of Florida’s One Stop Management Information System (OSMIS). The chart of accounts allows for verifiable tracking of all obligations for monitoring, reporting, and audit purposes. 5 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. The MIP Administrator has rights to add, edit, and delete chart of account codes to the system. The CFO is the MIP administrator. Once activity has been entered for a specific code, the system will not allow that code to be deleted. Instead, the code can be discontinued from further use, but its detail will always be maintained in the accounting system for audit trail purposes. The general ledger accounts codes are alpha-numeric. 6 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. I.C. NOT-FOR-PROFIT CHARACTERISTICS Purpose: To establish the accounting standards and guidelines that must be followed by WA based on its not-for-profit status WA is a private not-for-profit corporation registered under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue code, and is therefore exempt from federal income tax. See the Appendix for a copy of the IRS Final Ruling Letter on taxexempt status. The Federal Form 990 information tax return is required to be filed on an annual basis. The return is completed by WA or its outside auditor. WA is required to follow, and has implemented FASB Statement of Accounting Standards No. 116, Accounting for Contributions Made and Received and FASB Statement of Accounting Standards No. 117, Financial Statements for Not-for-Profit Organizations. The agency’s chart of accounts is set up in such a manner that it can track and report activity by the fund classifications required by SFAS 116 & 117, which are unrestricted, temporarily restricted, and permanently restricted. Due to the nature of the funds received by WA, the Organization has no permanently restricted assets. Temporarily restricted net assets represent property and equipment purchased with grant funding that cannot be disposed of without the granting agency’s approval. WA’s auditor reviews these classifications at year-end. 7 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. I.D. AUTHORITATIVE SOURCES Purpose: To establish the sources of guidance to be used by WA to ensure compliance with GAAP, federal regulations and the Workforce Florida Act of 1996. WA receives the vast majority of its funding as a sub-recipient of the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation, and other awards from the federal government directly or other state agencies. As a result, WA complies with the regulations promulgated in the OMB Circulars A-110, A-122 and A-133. Allowable expenditures for program and administrative costs are also governed by the following: Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Wagner-Peyser Act Florida Workforce Innovation Act The Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation (AWI) is the state oversight agency for all of the State of Florida’s regional workforce development boards. AWI maintains a website with all of its authoritative sources. All AWI’s sub-recipients are required to adhere to its authoritative sources. The Chief Financial Officer reviews these guides for any updates or changes. 8 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. I.E. PROGRAM CYCLE Purpose: To establish the life cycle of all programs. Each award received by WA provides funding for one or more programs. The life cycle of all programs is: An award letter or an NFA (Notice of Funds Availability) is received as the official notice that the program can proceed. The program is added to WA schedule of awards. A program budget is established, including the amount of allocated costs and the amount of costs that are necessary to meet requirements of the program.. Expenditures are processed through accounts payable (A/P). This includes the procurement and approval process and the general ledger (G/L) coding to ensure that expenditures are charged to the correct program or cost pool. Cash advances are requested to fund immediate disbursements. Cash is received from the grantor. Cash is disbursed. Pooled costs are allocated to programs. Accruals and other adjustments may be posted to the G/L as part of the month end closing procedures. Full accruals are booked at fiscal year-end (June 30). Interim reporting is submitted to the grantor each month (or as required). The year-to-date program status is reported to WA management in the monthly financial report. The most current YTD grant report is presented at the Board Finance Committee meetings. The program is subject to closeout procedures at the end date of the program (including file retention and storage). The procedures for each of these steps are described in detail in the applicable section of this accounting manual. 9 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. II.A. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND AUDIT/FINANCE COMMITTEE Purpose: To outline the accounting duties associated with the Board of Directors and Audit/Finance Committee. WA is governed by a Board of Directors (the “Board”). The Board is comprised of individuals who represent private sector business, economic developments, education, organized labor, community based organizations, and state and local government agencies. WA provides adequate Directors and Officers liability insurance for its Board of Directors. The Finance Committee and Executive Committee are subcommittees of the Board. A joint meeting is held for the Executive Board and the Finance Committee. The CEO and CFO attend these meetings and present the Monthly Financial Reporting Package for the organization. In addition, the Executive Board and Finance Committee are responsible for reviewing the annual audit and compliance report. The Board reviews, approves, and establishes the authority levels for property and procurement processes and procedures. Effective March 5, 2009 all checks over $20,000 require a board signature. The authority levels are as follows: Position Check Signers* Check Request/ Purchase Order Pres/CEO Unlimited 250,000 CFO ExecVice President VP/Dir of Programs Senior Mgmt Team Board Staff, Managers, Directors None Unlimited Issue RFP Approve Selection of Contractor Negotiate Contracts Sign Contract & Amendment Unlimited 250,000 Unlimited 250,000 5,000 10,000 None None None None Unlimited Unlimited None None Unlimited 5,000 None None Unlimited None None 5,000 None None Unlimited None Unlimited None Unlimited None Unlimited None Unlimited None Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited None *The VPs and the Director of Programs are the CEO’s onsite backup for signing checks. 10 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. II.B. ACCOUNTING STAFF Purpose: To summarize the positions in WA’s accounting department. The accounting department is comprised of the following three positions: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Sr. Accountant (Sr. Acc) Accountant (3) See Appendix A for a summary of accounting functions and staff members assigned to each function. Employees are eligible for hire in the accounting department only after employee references are contacted and upon an acceptable criminal background and credit check. The accounting staff may attend seminars during the year for training and updates to the State’s OSMIS system. In addition, staff may attend training classes or other professional development activities related to accounting upon approval by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The CFO is responsible for educating the accounting staff on Federal and State laws and regulations that affects WA. 2 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. III.A. INTERNAL CONTROL POLICY Purpose: To document WA’s financial internal control policy. WA recognizes that it is a steward of the public’s money, and that taxpayers hold the organization accountable to use the funds wisely and to protect them from loss while in their custody. As a result, a strong internal control policy exists and is monitored to prevent misuse of funds. The objectives of this system are to provide reasonable assurance that all assets, including workforce development funds, are safeguarded against loss from unauthorized use or disposition; that transactions are executed in accordance with management's authorization; and that they are recorded properly to permit the preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Segregation of duties reduces the likelihood that one person would be able to completely control a process or function from beginning to end. Although the accounting department is comprised of only four members, steps have been taken to ensure adequate segregation of duties for the various transactions that may occur during the course of business. Members of the accounting staff are required to take Paid Time Off (PTO), at which time another member of the accounting staff performs his/her duties. Each staff member has another staff member that has been cross-trained on his or her duties. The MIP accounting system integrates obligations, budgets, disbursements, payroll, and cost allocations in a centralized location, eliminating the risk of error associated with manual spreadsheets and calculations. The chart of accounts and all accounting procedures have been established to provide for identifying receipts and expenditures of program funds separately for each funding source. Internal controls are monitored periodically by the CFO and monitors. A review of the organization’s internal controls is also conducted as part of the annual financial audit. WA’s internal control policies are known and enforced by its executive management, and finance staff. Please see the Employee Handbook for the following related internal control issues: Code of Ethics, Standards of Employee Conduct, Conflict of Interest 3 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Policy, Confidentiality Policy, Whistle-Blower Policy, Record Maintenance, Property and Equipment Use, and the handling of perceived violations. III.B. COMPUTER SECURITY Purpose: To establish computer security procedures for the software programs used by the accounting department. Each computer workstation in the accounting department has a user name and password required to log on to the network. The Technical Support Unit manages the computer workstations and oversees the changing of password every six (6) months. The MIP accounting software has been set up to require a user name and password to access the program. The Chief Financial Officer is the system administrator for MIP and as such, has access to all MIP modules owned by WA. The System Administrator assigns and deletes security rights to the system based on the user’s job duties. In addition to the CFO, the IT Manager has access to the Administrative MIP module. Only accounting staff has access to MIP (other than view only for certain staff). The security rights for each action in MIP are: View Only, Add Records, Delete Records, Edit Records, and Process Records. In addition, the MIP Administrator can set up entry dates to prohibit transaction entry to a prior period or a future period. The MIP system does not allow entries to be erased or deleted and maintains a history of all transactions in the Administration module. It also maintains a log of all users and their time of entry. The MIP Administrator immediately deactivates users of the MIP accounting system upon termination. The IT manager reviews, on a random basis, the individual access rights and the log of users to ensure that unauthorized access has not been granted. WA uses the State of Florida’s OSMIS system to enter cash draw requests and provide expenditure reports to the State. OSMIS is a web based system. The Accountant 2, Finance Director and the Chief Financial Officer have rights to the system. Each person has his or her own unique user name and password. The Manager of the Technical Support Unit is the Security Officer for the system. The Security Officer creates users, assigns rights, and revokes access to the system. Prior to performing any administrative responsibility, the Security Officer receives authorization from the State. In order to initiate an action, the State Form (“AWI – Security Agreement Form”) is completed by a 4 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. WA supervisor and faxed to the State. The State then forwards the approval to the Security Officer to perform the action. III.C. MONITORING ACTIVITIES FOR WA AND ITS SUBRECIPIENTS Purpose: To establish the financial monitoring procedures required by federal and state regulations for the organization and its sub-recipients. WA’s monitoring activities are performed by our quality assurance department, outside consultants, and monitors sent by AWI. Monitoring of activities are intended to determine whether records are being maintained in sufficient detail to permit the preparation of all required reports and to ensure that funds are being traced to a level of expenditure adequate to ensure that they have been spent and allocated appropriately. WA contracts with an outside firm that performs fiscal and programmatic monitorings of WA and its subrecipients. For further details on WA’s monitoring activities review the Monitoring Binder filed in the Chief Executive Officers office. 5 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. IV.A. CASH - GENERAL Purpose: To identify all cash accounts currently used by WA and establish procedures for the authorization of the use of these cash funds. The following is a list of all current bank accounts used by WA: Bank Type of Account Use of Account Riverside Advantage Interest Checking Account General Operating Riverside Advantage Interest Checking Account Accounts Payable Authorized Signers President/CEO,VP Operations, VP Programs, VP Business Services and several members of WA’s Board Same as above General Ledger Number 1051 1050 As of October 3, 2008 all bank accounts are guaranteed by the FDIC for up to $250,000. WA funds are not public deposits and are not covered by Florida Statutes, Chapter 280, The Florida Security for Public Deposits Act. The Board of Directors authorizes all bank accounts. The Board authorizes new check signers as necessary. In addition, the bank is notified by WA of any changes to the authorized check signer’s roster. The current check signers are the President/CEO, the VP’s (excluding the CFO), the Director of Programs, and three members of the Board. Two of these signatures are required on every check. The CFO is not a check signer. Effective March 5, 2009, if the check request is for over $20,000, a Board member must be one of the signers. Checks are only made out to cash in rare situations. The practice of cashing checks out of currency on hand is also prohibited. WA maintains a $500 petty cash fund. 6 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. IV.B. CASH RECEIPTS – ELECTRONIC FUNDS Purpose: To establish policy and procedures for receiving and processing cash receipts (electronic funds) from the State of Florida and Federal Agencies. WA’s primary cash receipts are warrants deposited directly into the general operating account by the State of Florida through electronic funds transfer (EFT). Draw requests from the State of Florida are processed on a weekly basis using the State’s online One Stop Management Information System (OSMIS). Requests entered by Thursday of a given week are deposited into the general operating account by Friday of the following week. (It is usually on Tuesday). WA may have other grants from which funds are either drawn down directly over a secure website, or the grantor is sent an invoice. STATE OF FLORIDA RECEIPTS The Sr. Accountant is responsible for processing the draw request in OSMIS as described in Section VI.A. – Revenue Recognition. The State of Florida’s Comptrollers Office sends Workforce Alliance a notice of the EFT transaction (Remittance Advice), after the funds have been deposited into the bank account. The notice is received via US Mail. The Finance Department mail is forwarded to the designated Accountant in the Accounting Department for distribution. In addition WA performs periodic (at least weekly) online review of its bank accounts to identify incoming transfers. The following procedures are performed by the department to process the receipts: Periodic online review of bank accounts Print out copy of bank statement for incoming transfers, record receipt in cash log (Excel Spreadsheet) and forward copy to Accountant responsible for coding and recording cash receipts in MIP accounting system. The cash receipts log lists the date received, description, check number, check date, deposit amount, and funding source. Daily the designated Accountant opens and date stamps the mail. The Accountant verifies that receipts for Remittance Advice received have been recorded in the cash receipts log. The remittance advice is then forwarded to the Accountant responsible for recording receipts in MIP. The remittance advice is attached to the cash receipts entry. Each week the Accountant records the week’s receipts (electronic funds transfer and cash receipts) in the MIP accounting system as a Cash Receipts Session (see – MIP Cash Receipt Processing). Each receipt is entered separately using the fund code for that funding source. The receipt is entered as debit to cash and a credit to A/R-cash requested, if a 7 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. receivable was previously recorded. Funds received that have not been previously recorded as A/R are debited to cash and credited to revenue. The Accountant generates an Unposted General Ledger Transaction Report from MIP for the Cash Receipt Session after it has been entered. The report is attached to the remittance advice. This is then given to the Finance Director for review and approval. The FD/CFO reviews the transaction, posts the transaction in the MIP accounting system, stamps and initials the unspotted report indicating his/her review and posting of the transaction. The package is returned to the Accountant for filing in the Quarterly Cash Receipts Binder maintained in the Accounting Department. Cash receipts documentations are filed by deposit dates. FEDERAL AGENCY RECEIPTS Request for reimbursement from other (non-AWI) sources are prepared by the Contract Managers. The request for reimbursement is prepared in consultation with the Accountant with fiscal responsibility for the program. The requests are made via secure websites e.g. Division of Payment Management System (for Biotech). The Contract Manager forwards a copy of the Reimbursement Request and the online Request for Payment to the CFO. This documentation is then forwarded to the Accountant to record the revenue and the accounts receivable in the MIP accounting system. The Accountant records the revenue in MIP (debit to accounts receivable and credit to revenue), and generates an MIP unposted transaction report. The unposted report and supporting documentation are forwarded to the FD/CFO for review and posting of the transaction and then returns the package to the Accountant for filing. Weekly the CFO reviews the operating bank account activities online. Upon receipt of the transfer into the bank account, the following procedures are performed: Written notification of these transfers is forwarded to WA by the Federal Agencies. In addition, the FLAIR system can be accessed online, allowing up to date viewing of deposits made by the state. The receipt is recorded in MIP the week of the receipt (see State of Florida Receipts for recording and processing procedures). Copies of the request for reimbursement and the online Request for Payment are attached to the MIP cash receipts entry. 8 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. The Accountant performs the data entry, (debit to cash and credit to accounts receivable) and generates an MIP Unposted Transaction Report. The unposted report and supporting documentation are forwarded to the FD/CFO for review and subsequent posting of the transaction. The package is then returned to the Accountant for filing. . 9 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. IV.C. OTHER CASH RECEIPTS Purpose: To establish policy and procedures for the handling of cash receipts that provides for effective internal control. WA’s primary cash receipts are made through electronic funds transfer from the State of Florida and Federal Agencies as described in Section IV.B. Cash Receipts – Electronic Funds. However, periodically the agency will receive cash receipts (checks) directly and the following procedures are then performed. Daily, the administrative assistant receives the mail and forwards the finance department mail to the designated Accountant in the Department. The department performs the following procedures: The Accountant opens and date stamps the mail. All checks received are copied (two copies), endorsed for deposit only and logged into the Cash Receipt Log (Excel Spreadsheet) by the Accountant. The Cash Receipt log lists the date received, description of funds, check number, check date, amount, funding source and deposit amount. The receipt, a copy of the checks and all supporting documentation are forwarded to the Sr. Accountant for processing of the deposit and the recording of the receipt in the MIP accounting system. The Sr. Accountant reviews the receipt, codes it (6 segment general ledger code) and reconciles it to the bill (if for invoice payment). Unknown receipts are investigated. The Accountant places the checks in the safe. Deposits are prepared at least monthly. Prior to deposit, checks are kept in a locked safe. Two members of the finance staff have access to the safe. The Sr. Accountant prepares the deposit; records the receipt in MIP accounting system as a Cash Receipts Session (see section IV.B. – State of Florida Receipts for processing procedures); print out an Unposted General Ledger Transaction Report; attaches all supporting documentations and forwards the package to the CFO for review and approval. The CFO verifies the coding and initials the deposit slip indicating his/her review and approval of the deposit and correct coding of the receipts. Upon approval of the deposit slip, the FD/CFO reviews and posts the MIP accounting system transaction. The deposit is given to the courier for deposit, or another staff makes the deposit. 1 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. The validated deposit slip is attached to the MIP accounting system cash receipts transaction report. The package is returned to the Sr. Accountant for filing in the Cash Receipts Binder maintained in the Department. At the end of the month, the Cash Log and supporting documentation for the month’s receipts are included in the bank reconciliation package. NON GRANT REVENUE Non grant revenue is received for rental of space or equipment, fees/sponsors for events, skills testing, and other fee for service activities. The revenue is restricted to the program which created it. The deductive method is used which applies income as a deduction of expenses. This method uses the revenue currently and no program income needs to be reported. For financial reporting purposes, a journal entry is made which reclassifies it to program income and increases expenses. If the income is unrestricted or a contribution, then it is just reported as program income and it is available to be used at the discretion of WA. The revenue is unrestricted if it resulted from activities that were not funded with restricted (program) funds. INTEREST INCOME Interest earned on WIA Title I programs (WIA Adult, Dislocated, and Youth, Job Corps, and the Veteran’s programs) is reported as program income using the deductive method noted above. The income is used to decrease the expenses of the program which earned that income. For all other funding streams, the income earned is returned to the Grants Management Office quarterly. Under OMB A-122 for Non-Profits, $250 in interest can be kept as program income on these funds. Interest earned on unrestricted income is additional unrestricted income. Since separate bank accounts are not maintained for each fund, and it would be impractical to determine which funds have checks that are outstanding and the relative balances of the allocated expenses outstanding, a spreadsheet is maintained to determine the allocation of interest earned between WIA Title I Funds, other grants, and unrestricted funds. The spreadsheet looks at the relative cash draws by (major)fund and the unrestricted cash on hand. A journal entry is then made that records unrestricted interest income, program income, and a payable for the amount due to the Grants Management Office. 2 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. IV.D. CASH DISBURSEMENTS Purpose: To establish policy and procedures for the disbursement of cash that provides for effective internal control. Accounts payable (AP) cash disbursements are made by check and disbursed out of the Accounts Payable Bank Account. Exception: Credit Card payments and Palm Beach Workforce Development Consortium are processed via electronic funds transfer. The Accounts Payable bank account is a zero balance account. The bank automatically transfers cash required to the accounts payable account from the repurchase account for processing of all payments and transfers presented against the account. The Accountants prepare AP checks. After an Accounts Payable session has been posted in the MIP accounting system (see Section VII.C. Accounts Payable), the invoices become available for payment. Checks are issued (generally on Tuesday) based on the prior week’s Aged Payables By Due Date Report used to request cash (see Section VI.A. Revenue Recognition) from the funding source. At the discretion of the CFO, items may be paid prior to their draw down request. Staff reimbursements and time sensitive payments are typically paid when approved. Cash needed is requested from the funding source by Thursday. Cash requested on Thursday is used to cover next weeks’ payments. The following procedures are performed in order to issue, approve and disburse checks: The Accountant selects invoices to be paid in MIP and generates a report (Invoices Selected By Funding) of the invoices selected. The Accountant reviews the reports for reasonableness (e.g. difference between cash requested and total dollar amount of checks to be issued). Large differences are investigated, and any necessary corrections made. Upon completion of the review process, the Accountant processes the check run. The Accountant creates a check-run session in MIP (Activities-Check Writing-Pay Selected Invoices), retrieves the pre-numbered blank checks from the safe and places the checks in the laser printer for printing. The check stock is used in numerical order and is kept in the locked safe in the accounting department before and after check runs. The keys for the safe are kept in a locked desk drawer. The Accountant responsible for issuing checks and his or her back up has access to the key for the safe. The printed check is attached to the original vendor invoice or travel voucher, the purchase order (if applicable), along with any other supporting documentation. 3 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. The Accountant verifies that the check agrees to the attachment. Upon completion of the check run process, the Accountant notifies the CFO that the check run was successful and requests him/her to post the check run. After the check run has been posted, the Accountant generates the check register. Using the Invoices Selected by Funding report, the Accountant updates and prints the Cash Disbursement schedule in Excel with the total checks to be issued by funding source. The checks, supporting documentation, and check register are forwarded to the CFO for review and initialing of the checks. The CFO reviews all checks and initials the bottom right hand corner indicating his/her review. The checks and supporting documentation are presented for signatures. All checks require two authorized signatures. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO), VP’s, Director of Programs, and several Board Members are authorized signatories. The individuals signing the checks are independent of the voucher and check preparation process. Signing blank checks and issuing checks for invoices and reimbursement requests not authorized are strictly prohibited. The check register, signed checks, and supporting documentation are returned to the Accountant that issued the checks for final processing. The Accountant or Administrative Assistant (AA) copies the check, separates the check from the documentation, separates the bottom portion of the check stub and staples the copy and the stub to the documentation. The check and the required remittance (vendor copy of invoice etc.) are placed in the envelope for mailing. Checks to be picked up are separated. Using the postage machine, the Accountant/AA affixes the appropriate postage on the envelope. Prior to mailing/pickup, the checks are kept in a locked safe. Checks to be mailed are placed in a nearby mailbox. The supporting documentation with the check copy and stub attached is filed by the Accountant/AA alphabetically by vendor. The files are located in the accounting department until the completion of the fiscal year-end audit. At year end, the prior year files are boxed, labeled and forwarded to storage to make room for the files for the new year. The current year and prior year files are kept on hand. All voided and spoiled checks have VOID written across the check and the signature section is removed from the bottom right hand corner. These voided checks are retained and filed in numeric order. 4 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. ELECTRONIC FUNDS TRANSFER WA has the option to process payments electronically if the vendor accepts electronic payment. Currently electronic payments are processed for credit card payments. See VII.G. Credit Cards for details on processing credit cards. Electronic payments processed for any additional vendors shall be authorized in writing by the Chief Executive Officer prior to processing of the payment. All requests must be properly coded and approved prior to the CFO’s written authorization for processing of the payment. This process should only be used for emergency payments or in cases where WA would not otherwise be able to adhere to the vendors’ payment due date. Electronic payments are normally done in accordance with the vendors policy e.g. the vendor is given the next check number and authorized to process the payment from WA’s bank account or the payment is processed online. Electronic payments are entered into MIP accounting system as manual checks. The confirmation number is used as the check number. PAYROLL DISBURSEMENTS All staff are employed by The Palm Beach Workforce Development Consortium (PBWDC) and assigned to either a one stop location or the main office. Workforce Alliance has an agreement with PBWDC to hire staff and pay other fringe benefits to employees needed to provide the direct and indirect services for all programs. Each pay period PBWDC invoices Workforce Alliance for the actual cost of the payroll and benefits. Workforce Alliance transfers the money to PBWDC prior to payment. The majority of employees receive their paycheck through direct deposit. When a new employee is hired, an actual payroll check is received for the first or second pay periods until their direct deposit has been established. Paycheck information is available to each employee through the Microix timesheet module. Direct deposit vouchers are distributed to employees only if a written request is submitted. See Section VIII.B. Payroll Procedures NOTE: Manual Checks The MIP Accounting System has the capability to process manual checks. Processing of manual checks is strongly discouraged. All payment requests must be properly coded, and approved before the issuance of any check. The 5 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. reason for the issuance of a manual check must be noted on the supporting documentation for all manual checks. IV.E. INVESTMENTS Purpose: To establish the policies and procedures for investment transactions. WA does not currently utilize investment vehicles due to the nature of the funding it receives from the State of Florida (primarily cost reimbursement grants). Should the Board of Directors authorize the use of investment vehicles in the future, the following guidelines will be used. The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and the CEO/President will be responsible for the research and recommendation of which investments to purchase and/or sell. Their recommendation will be made to the Board of Directors. Only investments that are of the type permitted by funding sources will be considered. In addition, the investment income and gains will only be used for the purposes authorized by laws, funding source regulations, and the Board of Directors. All investment transactions will be recorded in the MIP accounting system in accordance with Financial Accounting Standard Board (FASB) Statement of Accounting Standards. The investment transactions will be adequately supported by documents from independent sources (i.e. broker’s confirmations, bank advices, etc.) and the CFO will maintain the following records: Description of the investment Date of acquisition and purchase price Interest/dividend/income rates and receipt dates Investment reconciliations (performed in MIP in the same manner as bank reconciliations. See Section III.F.) The CFO will be responsible for presenting a quarterly review of the investment portfolio to the CEO/President, including quality ratings, risk assessment, market value, and quarterly earnings or losses. 6 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. IV.F. RECONCILIATION OF CASH Purpose: To establish the monthly practice of reconciling all bank accounts. The bank statements are delivered to the CEO/President unopened to ensure that the statements are not tampered with prior to his/her review. The CEO/President reviews the check copies in the bank statement to ensure that the signatures are authentic, the vendors are legitimate, and the amounts are reasonable. The statements (or a copy) are then given to the Accountant for the preparation of the reconciliation. The Accountants, FD, and CFO have access to the bank account information online, so activity can be reviewed on an ongoing basis and interim reconciliations can be preformed. The Accountant completes the bank reconciliation by the 15th of each month, using the MIP accounting system’s Bank Reconciliation module and Excel (Alliance Bank Reconciliation Spreadsheet). The Accountant preparing the bank reconciliation is independent of the cash receipt process. The Accountant performs the following: Enter the months’ bank activities (beginning balance, interest, fees, transfers, deposits etc.,) for all accounts on the Excel spreadsheet. Enter preliminary MIP ending book balances on Excel spreadsheet. Clear all checks in the accounting system that cleared the bank, comparing amounts of the cleared checks on the bank statement to the amounts of the checks recorded in the general ledger. Enter reconciling items (e.g. total outstanding checks) on excel spreadsheet to determine adjusted bank balance. Reconcile adjusted bank balance to preliminary MIP ending book balance. Prepare journal vouchers for unrecorded transfers, service charges, interest earned, NSF checks, or other miscellaneous items in the general ledger (if not previously recorded). Clear all deposits in the accounting system that cleared the bank, ensuring the amounts of the deposits on the bank statement agree to the amounts recorded in the general ledger. Clear any other cash items in the accounting system for any miscellaneous debit and credit items on the bank statement. 7 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Investigate any irregular items including NSF checks, post-dated checks, disputed items, unidentified receipts, and checks charged back by the bank. The completed bank reconciliations are forwarded to the CFO for her review and approval. The CFO reviews the bank statement for unusual items (unusual checks cashed from payroll account, unusual amounts, unusual transfers out of account, balances in payroll and accounts payable accounts etc.). All unusual items are investigated further. The CFO signs and dates the reconciliation indicating her review and then forwards it to the CEO/President. In addition to the reconciliation, the CEO/President reviews the check copies in the bank statement to ensure that the signatures are authentic, the vendors are legitimate, and the amounts are reasonable. The approved bank reconciliations and supporting documentation is returned to the Accountant for filing. The Accountant files the bank reconciliations. The Accountant investigates all checks that have been outstanding for more than 90 days, to determine the reason they have not cleared the bank. If it is determined that the check has not been received by the payee, a stop payment is placed on the original check, and a new check is reissued. WA adheres to Florida Statutes for disposition of unclaimed property. The QA department reviews the cancelled checks to ensure that they have not been altered, and have been properly endorsed. When WA used Wachovia bank, the copies of the endorsed checks was on a disk which was delivered each month to the QA Department. WA moved to Riverside Bank in January 2007. Riverside Bank began sending hard copies of the cancelled checks in the bank statements. 8 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. IV.G. PETTY CASH Purpose: To establish policy and procedures for the handling of petty cash that provides for effective internal control. WA maintains a $500 petty cash fund in the finance department for emergency use, or when it is more practical or economical to use cash for transactions. The fund is managed by the Accountant 2 and kept in a locked safe in the department. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) must approve the increase/decrease or termination of the petty cash fund. The maximum amount per request for disbursement from the fund is $100. Request for petty cash reimbursement must be accompanied by supporting documentation (e.g. pre-approval from supervisor, receipt and supervisor’s approval if the item has already been purchased). The payee must sign for the cash reimbursement and cash advances. The custodian reconciles the fund and replenishes it on an as needed basis (normally when the fund balance reaches $150 or less). All employees are required to submit the receipts for petty cash funds advanced to the custodian, and to return unused funds within one business day. In order to replenish the funds, the petty cash custodian gathers all the receipts, prepares the petty cash status report (listing of all disbursements), and the reconciliation. The status report and the reconciliation are attached to the supporting documentation, and presented to the CFO for review and approval. The approved package is forwarded to the CEO for final approval. The package is returned to the Accountant for accounts payable processing (see Section VII.C. Accounts Payable). If the Petty Cash custodian function is reassigned to a new employee, the fund shall be reconciled before the transfer occurs. The old custodian and the new custodian must review and sign the reconciliation. 9 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. V.A. BUDGETING - PLANNING Purpose: To establish the policies and procedures for planning the WA’s annual budget. An annual budget authorizes and provides the basis for control of financial operations during the program year. Beginning in late April, WA receives planning estimates from the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation (AWI) of the funding levels for the next program year. At that time, the management team convenes and decides the estimated percentage of funds that will be spent on allocated costs, one-stop operations, ITA’s, support services and other activities. The percentages are entered into an Excel File (Budget Model Worksheet) by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to develop the budget projection by program. The projected budget is reviewed and revised to meet WA’s anticipated funding and to adhere to the requirements of the funding source. Funding source requirements include, but are not limited to, minimum ITA costs, youth program minimums (after-school and out-of-school expenditures), and 10% limit for administrative costs. The budget process is decentralized. Program managers are involved in the development and analysis of budgets, and the Vice Presidents are involved in the preparation of line item budgets for their respective department. Upon completion of the budget processes by the management team, the CFO prepares WA’s annual operating budget. The proposed annual operating budget is reviewed and approved by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). At the June meeting, only the budget total approved by the CEO is submitted to the Audit/Finance Committee for approval, and to the full Board for its approval. The CEO has the authority to adjust the line items of the budget. When additional funding is received during the year, the CEO and CFO create the budget for the additional funding. The revised budget total may be presented to the Audit/Finance Committee, but their approval is not required. 10 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. V.B. BUDGETING - MONITORING Purpose: To establish the policies and procedures for monitoring the organization’s annual budget. Once the Board of Directors approves the annual operating budget, the budget is entered in the MIP accounting system Budget Module for each program code and account line item. The budget is entered at the lowest level to allow preparation of meaningful budget to actual expenditure reports. As part of the monthly closing process, the CFO generates budget to actual reports using the MIP accounting system for review. The CFO prepares the WA’s Financial Reporting Package monthly, which provides budget versus year-to-date expenditures for all programs and each major program individually. The monthly financial reports are distributed to management, the Audit/Finance Committee and the Board. Additional financial reports are prepared as needed. When any line item budget adjustments are approved by the CEO, the CFO prepares the budget adjustment entry. The entry is recorded in MIP by an Accountant. The CFO reviews and approves the entry after it is entered. 11 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VI.A. REVENUE RECOGNITION Purpose: To establish the procedures for recognizing and recording revenue in the accounting system. Revenue is recognized and recorded after the funds have been requested (automated draw-down via State’s One Stop Management Information System - OSMIS) from the funding source or when the funding source has been invoiced. The major revenue sources are awards and grants. Most of the awards are federal pass through funds received from the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation. Grants are amounts received as a result of applications filed with grantors. OSMIS AUTOMATED DRAW-DOWN OSMIS automated drawdown for cost reimbursement is processed by Thursday. The following procedures are performed to determine the estimated year-to-date disbursements as of the next week’s end, the basis for the amount to be requested. The Accountant verifies that all accounts payable batches in the MIP accounting system with an effective date of Tuesday or earlier and a due date of the following Monday are posted. After verifying that all batches have been posted, the Accountant generates MIP year-to-date expenditure and revenue reports as of the draw request preparation date. Year-to-date expenditure and revenue amounts from the report, invoices in process (not in MIP), and other anticipated disbursements not booked are entered onto the Cash Needs spreadsheet. Using the built in formula on the Cash Needs Spreadsheet, the pool amounts are allocated to the major grants. Any known reclassifications are entered on the spreadsheet. The estimated next week’s year-to-date disbursements are calculated by totaling year-to-date expenses, invoices in process, payroll not booked and any reclassifications. Year-to-date estimated disbursements less the year-to-date revenue amounts per funding source equals the cash needs for the next week. The cash needs for the week is compared to cash on hand (Bank Balance Excel spreadsheet) to determine the amount of funds to be requested. On a program by program basis, when cash on hand is greater than the cash needs, a cash draw request is not processed for that week. The cash needs schedule and supporting documents are submitted to the CFO for review. The CFO reviews the Cash Needs calculation ensuring that amounts agree to the supporting documentation. The schedule is also reviewed for reasonableness. The total cash needs per the schedule should agree to the 12 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Aged Payables in MIP plus any additional anticipated disbursements in process, less cash on hand and a reasonable reserve. Discrepancies are brought to the attention of the Accountant that prepared the schedule. The cash needs calculation is a tool used to determine the cash draw down to be requested. The CFO reviews the schedule in conjunction with other factors such as: vendor needs, and unrestricted cash available. The CFO adjusts the requests as determined. Significant variances from the original calculation are documented. When complete, the CFO signs and dates the Cash Needs Schedule indicating his/her review and approval. The package is returned to the Accountant for processing of the draw request in the State’s One Stop Management Information System (OSMIS). The Accountant prepares the journal voucher for recording the revenue (debit to accounts receivable and a credit to revenue for each program). The package is then forwarded to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for review and approval. Accountant 2 enters the request in OSMIS (see the Agency for Workforce Innovation –One Stop management Information System Financial Management Report Guide for OSMIS processing procedures), and prints out copies of the final request screen. One copy of the final request screen is attached to the Cash Needs Schedule and supporting documentation. Copies of the cash needs request and the OSMIS printout are attached to the approved journal voucher and submitted to one of the Accountants for recording the revenue entry (debit accounts receivable and credit revenue) in MIP. An Unposted Transaction Report is generated for the transaction, attached to the package and submitted to the CFO for data entry review, posting in MIP and filing. INVOICED AND NON-OSMIS AUTOMATED DRAW DOWNS Reimbursement requests processed via invoice and other automated drawn down systems are recorded as revenue upon receipt of the supporting documentation by the accounting department. These reimbursement requests are processed by the program managers in consultation with the Accountant that has fiscal responsibility for the program. The reimbursement request/invoice is reviewed and approved by the Chief Financial Officer prior to submission to the funding source. Notification of the billing or the draw down request is returned to the Accountant with fiscal responsibility for the program. Using the documentation as support, the Accountant records the revenue (debit accounts receivable and credit revenue) and the accounts receivable in MIP through a journal voucher session. An Unposted Transaction Report is generated, attached to the package and submitted to the CFO for review and posting. The package is then returned to the Accountant for filing. 13 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Revenue and receivables balances are reviewed and analyzed by the CFO at the end of each month. 14 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VI.B. REVENUE SOURCES Purpose: To recognize WA revenue sources, including direct federal funding, passthrough funding from the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation (AWI), program income, donations, and other miscellaneous revenue. The primary annual recurring revenue sources of WA are federal funding (the U.S. Department of Labor and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) passed through: Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation (AWI) Welfare Transition Program (WTP) Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Wagner Peyser In addition, WA periodically receives or applies for the following funding as they are made available: Direct Federal Funding Other Pass-through Funding Public and Private Grants Donations to the agency are recorded in accordance with FASB Statement of Accounting Standards No. 116, Accounting for Contributions Made and Received. Donations other than cash are recorded at fair market value at the time of the donation. Donations with restrictions are tracked in the accounting system under its own general ledger number, based on the type of restriction placed upon the donation. Revenues received from other sources not described above are recorded in the accounting system as miscellaneous revenue or as an offset to the related expense (such as sub-lease rent), unless the amount is deemed material enough to warrant its own general ledger account. NON GRANT REVENUE Non grant revenue is received for rental of space or equipment, fees/sponsors for events, skills testing, and other fee for service activities. The revenue is restricted to the program which created it. The deductive method is used 15 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. which applies income as a deduction of expenses. This method uses the revenue currently and no program income needs to be reported. For financial reporting purposes, a journal entry is made which reclassifies it to program income and increases expenses. Workforce Alliance has a solicitation license and can accept donations. Donations to the agency are recorded in accordance with FASB Statement of Accounting Standards No. 116, Accounting for Contributions Made and Received. Donations other than cash are recorded at fair market value at the time of the donation. Donations with restrictions are tracked in the accounting system under its own general ledger number, based on the type of restriction placed upon the donation. If the income is unrestricted, then it is reported as program income and it is available to be used at the discretion of WA. The revenue is unrestricted if it resulted from activities that were not funded with restricted (program) funds. Donations are generally unrestricted, unless the donor has placed restrictions on the use of their contribution. VII.A. PURCHASING Purpose: To establish policies and procedures for the purchase of goods and services. WA’s purchasing functions are decentralized and check requests and purchase orders are used. The Operations Department generally handles purchases for equipment and furniture. Supplies’ ordering is handled by the Accounting Department. Other purchases are made on an as needed basis by the employee/department requesting the item. All purchases $5,000 and over are pre-approved by the CEO. Vice President’s and the Director of Public Information may approve items below $5,000. Prior to purchasing of all items budget availability must be verified, and the general ledger coding identified. The Finance Department and all employees performing purchasing functions are aware of WA’s purchasing policies. See WA’s Procurement Policies and Procedures Manual. The OMB Circular A-122 categorizes certain costs as unallowable. Unallowable costs cannot be charged to a federal funding source. WA employees authorizing and purchasing goods and services are aware of and adhere to the OMB A-122 Circular regulations. A brief list of OMB A-122 unallowable costs is provided at the end of this section (See OMB A-122 Circular for the complete list and cost description). 16 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Merchandise is purchased/ordered after receiving approval. Upon receipt of the merchandise and the invoice, the employee completes a Check Request Voucher if a Purchase Order was not issued for the purchase. A purchasing checklist and other required documentation is attached for purchases of $5,000 or more, and the package is forwarded for approval. Purchase Orders are used whenever possible. The approved Check Request/Purchase Order is forwarded to the Accounting Department. The Check Request Voucher/Purchase Order is returned if it is not properly approved and/or if adequate supporting documentation is not attached. All Check Requests over $5,000 shall be approved by the CEO (see Section VII.C. – Accounts PayableNon Recurring Payments). Supplies and furniture are purchased from a WA approved vendor under an annual contract. Supply purchases are made from other vendors during emergency situations or if the approved vendor does not have the items needed. SUPPLIES Workforce Alliance contracts with an office supply vendor that has online ordering capabilities. There is a person in each office that can access the website and place orders. The person placing the order accesses the vendor’s website and inputs the order. The order is routed to their supervisor and/or the COO for approval. The order is then routed to the Accountant, who prints the order and gives it to the CFO for review. After approval from the CFO, the Accountant will place the order. Upon receipt of the merchandise, the receiver signs and dates the packing slip/invoice. The packing slip/invoice is removed and forwarded to the Finance Department. The merchandise is delivered to the requester. The Accountant receives the monthly bill. The packing slips/invoices are reconciled to the monthly invoice. All discrepancies are resolved with the vendor. The Accountant prepares a Payment Voucher for the invoice. The Payment Voucher lists the general ledger codes to be charged for each invoice. The Finance Director reviews the package, signs and dates the Payment Voucher indicating his/her review and approval. OMB Circular A-122 Unallowable Cost Under the terms of OMB Circular A-122, the following costs are examples of unallowable cost items, and therefore cannot be charged to any federal funding sources. See A-122 for more information. Bad debt Contingencies 17 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Contributions and donations to others Entertainment Fines and penalties Interest Fund-raising Lobbying Goods or services for personal use In addition, certain costs are only allowable if prior approval is received from the funding source. Examples are: capital expenditures for equipment with a unit cost of $5,000 or more, and capital expenditure for improvement to land or buildings that materially increase their value or useful life. VII.B. ENCUMBRANCES Purpose: To establish policies and procedures for recording purchase orders, individual training agent vouchers (ITA’s), and support service vouchers as encumbrances in the accounting system. The MIP accounting system used by the WA allows for the entry of encumbrances, which are maintained in an encumbrance ledger separate from the general ledger. This allows the accounting department to better track obligated funds and decreases the possibility of overspending. WA started using the encumbrance ledger in July 2005. Purchases orders (using Microix software) have been used since in July 2005. When a P.O. is approved by Finance, either an encumbrance is created or it can be moved directly to accounts payable. Finance will not approve a PO/check request given until adequate documentation and approval is received. The Microix PO system allows invoices and other backup to be scanned and attached and electronically submits the PO for approval. Gazelle software is used (starting July 2005) to track ITA and support service authorizations. Gazelle reserves a portion of the overall budget for a specific participant. As vouchers for authorized services are entered into Gazelle, the encumbrance is recorded on a real-time basis). 18 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VII.C. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE Purpose: To establish the policies and procedures for the accounts payable function. Accounts payable can either be directly input into the MIP accounting system or transferred from the Microix Purchase order system. If an approved check request or invoice is received, it will be directly input in the accounts payable system. When mail is received by Finance it is opened and date stamped. Invoices received are filed alphabetically and reviewed daily. The invoice is matched with open purchase orders/check requests, and credit card purchases. Customer statements are reviewed and filed in the vendor file. If there is no open document indicating approval of the above invoice, a purchase order is created in the Microix Purchase Order system. The invoice and any supporting documentation is scanned and attached, and then submitted electronically for approval. Once approval is received the purchase order can be moved directly into the accounts payable system. Purchase Orders and check requests need appropriate approval prior to purchasing. Documents are sent to Finance and kept in the above file pending receipt of the approved invoice. See the Procurement Policies and Procedures Manual for additional information. Upon receipt of the approved invoice by Accounting, the following procedures are performed within 48 hours: The Accountant reviews the invoice for mathematical accuracy, taxes (WA is a non-profit organization as a result it is exempt from paying sales taxes), past due amounts, late fees, adequate supporting documentation, coding and proper approval. A copy of WA’s tax-exempt certificate must be forwarded to all vendors whose invoice includes taxes, and the taxes are not paid. All late fees and past due amounts are researched. The Accountant notes the status of all past due amount on the invoice. Missing supporting documentation and proper approval are obtained if necessary. The Accountant works with the preparer of the Check Request Voucher/Purchase Order to resolve all discrepancies. NOTE: Check Request Vouchers/Purchase Orders that cannot be processed within 48 hours shall be brought to the CFO’s attention. The CFO provides guidance on how to proceed. The Accountant batches the invoices and enters them in the MIP accounting system as an Accounts Payable Session (See Section -) with a Monday due 19 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. date. The Accountant generates an Unposted MIP transaction report for the batch entered, attaches the report to the package and submits the package to the CFO for data entry review and posting in MIP. The CFO reviews the transaction report for data entry error, proper supporting documentation and approval. After his/her review and approval, the CFO posts the transaction in MIP. Posted transactions are available for payment and are included in the calculation for the weekly cash draw. Checks are cut in accordance with the cash disbursement procedures outlined in Section IV.D. Cash Disbursements. RECURRING PAYMENTS (not contractor payments) The Accountant completes a payment voucher for each recurring invoice. Payment Vouchers are used for processing rents, leases, phone bills, professional service contracts etc. Payment Vouchers are approved by the program or operations VP. Exception: Payments vouchers for rent do not need monthly approval. The following procedures are performed to process a payment voucher. The Accountant reviews the invoice for mathematical accuracy, taxes (WA is a non-profit organization as a result it is exempt from paying sales taxes), past due amounts, late fees. A copy of WA’s tax-exempt certificate must be forwarded to all vendors whose invoice includes taxes, and the taxes are not paid. All late fees and past due amounts are researched. The Accountant notes the status of all past due amounts on the invoice. NOTE: Invoices that cannot be processed within 48 hours shall be brought to the CFOs’ attention that then provides guidance on how to proceed. The Payment Vouchers are forwarded to the appropriate employee for approval e.g. phone bills, and equipment leases are forwarded to Vice President of Operations. The Accountant batches the invoices and enters them in the MIP accounting system as an Accounts Payable Session (See Section -) with a Monday due date. The Accountant generates an Un-posted MIP transaction report of the batch entered, attaches the report to the package and submits the package to the CFO for review and posting. The CFO reviews the report for data entry errors and posts the batch in MIP. Posted transactions are available for payment and are included in the calculation for the weekly cash draw. Checks are then cut in accordance with the cash disbursement procedures outlined in Section IV.D. Cash Disbursements. Vendor’s month-end statements are filed with the paid invoices after review of outstanding amounts. If it is determined that there are outstanding invoices that have not been paid, the AP accountant will notify the vendor, request a 20 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. second invoice, investigate the reason payment was missed, and make prompt payment if deemed appropriate. The Accountant files original vendor invoices in alphabetical order in the paid invoice files. Copies of check documentation are made when required by parties outside of the accounting department. Effective March 2007, WA started using Positive Pay at Riverside Bank. Each time checks are prepared, a file that lists the vendor, amount, and check number is sent electronically to the bank. If any of the check information is different, the bank will hold the check and send a variance report to the CFO. If Riverside doesn’t receive instructions from the CFO to pay the check by 1:00pm the next day, the check is returned to the customer. 21 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VII.D. ONE-STOP OPERATOR PAYMENTS Purpose: To establish the policies and procedures for processing payments to one-stop operators. The one stops are run by the Chief Operations Officer, who reports to the Advisory Council. The Advisory council is not paid. 22 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VII.E. INDIVIDUAL TRAINING ACCOUNT (ITA) PAYMENTS Purpose: To establish the policies and procedures for processing payments for individual training accounts. WA contracts annually with Individual Training Providers. The original contracts are kept on file in the Operations Department and a copy is placed in a folder on the network that can be accessed by all WA staff. Training Providers receive payment by submitting an invoice, the completed voucher, and other documentation needed to support payment. Upon determining the participant’s eligibility for service, the Case Manager allocates a participant budget in the Gazelle system out of the unallocated budget. He/She then creates an ITA Training Voucher in the Gazelle software, and also enters it in OSMIS (One Stop Management Information System) or OSST (One Stop System Tracking) depending on the program. The participant and case manager sign the Voucher. The Voucher is then given to the participant, who takes it to the Training Provider. The Training Provider registers the participant for the program, and completes the Provider Section of the Voucher. The completed Voucher is sent to the Finance Department for processing. The Accountant performs the following procedures: Review the Voucher Form to ensure that all required sections have been completed. Verify voucher information in OSMIS/OSST. In OSMIS the Accountant enters the program start date. The start date is entered in OSST by the case manager. All discrepancies are brought to the attention of the WA program manager. The original voucher is returned with the first payment request. Documentation required (program outcome form) must be submitted with the final payment request for payment to be processed. Upon receipt of the invoice from the vendor with the vendor’s initial and supporting documentation, if required, the Accountant enters the payment request in the MIP accounting system as an Accounts Payable Session, and selects the encumbrance to pay. The Accountant prints out an Unposted transaction report from MIP, attaches the report to the batch and forwards the package to the CFO for review and posting. The package is forwarded to the Accountant responsible for issuing checks (see Section IV.D. Cash Disbursement) After issuance and distribution/mailing of the check, the invoice along with a copy of the check and the check stub attached are returned to the Accountant to be filed. 23 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. In addition to tuition payments, Providers may be paid for books, supplies, and other costs required by the participant to complete the program. WA receives the invoice from the Training Provider with a copy of the course syllabus. The participant must sign the invoice/receipt. Upon receipt of the invoice and syllabus, the Accountant performs the following procedures: Verify that the participant signed the receipt. Verify in OSMIS/OSST that the payment request is for a WA participant. Identify the funding source. Print out OSMIS/OSST report indicating training program and funding source. Verify that items invoiced are listed on the syllabus as required for the course. WA only pays for books, supplies and other items required for the course. All discrepancies are brought to the attention of the program manager. The Accountant creates and prints out a purchase order from the Purchase Order System for each invoice. The purchase orders are attached to the invoices, batched together and entered into the MIP accounting system as an Accounts Payable Session. Upon completion of the data entry, the Accountant prints out an Unposted transaction report from MIP, attaches the report to the batch and forwards the package to the CFO for review and posting. The batch is forwarded to the Accountant responsible for issuing checks (see Section IV.D. Cash Disbursement). After issuance and distribution/mailing of the check, the invoice, along with a copy of the check, and the check stub attached are returned to the Accountant to be filed. 24 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VII.F. SUPPORT SERVICE PAYMENTS Purpose: To establish the policies and procedures for processing support service payments. Support service payments are made for vouchers issued on the participant’s behalf by the one-stop operators. The Case Managers at the Service Center determines eligibility for support service. Vouchers are issued using the Gazelle system, and this creates an encumbrance. Each voucher issued by the Case Manager is also entered in the appropriate State system. The systems are One-Stop Management Information System (OSMIS) and One -Stop System Tracking (OSST). Upon issuance, the voucher is given to the participant who takes it to the vendor. The vendor provides the merchandise or service and submits an invoice to WA for payment. The invoice is received via the mail/email/fax, date stamped, and forwarded to the designated Accountant in the Finance Department. The following procedures are performed upon receipt of an invoice for support service payment. The Accountant verifies that the voucher has been properly completed e.g. participant signature, vendor signature. The Accountant logs onto OSST and verifies that all program requirements have been met, and that the required information has been entered in the system. The voucher is also submitted to the program manager for review if it is an auto repair, auto insurance or other unusual items. Problems with the issuance of the voucher are brought to the attention of the one-stop operator, and issues with the delivery of the service are referred to the vendor. The Accountant enters the MIP accounting system and an Accounts Payable session, and selects the item from the encumbrance system. Upon completion of the data entry, the Accountant prints out an Unposted Transaction report from MIP, attaches the report to the batch and forwards the package to the CFO for review and posting. The batch is forwarded to the Accountant responsible for issuing checks (see Section IV.D. Cash Disbursement). After issuance and distribution/mailing of the check, the invoice, along with a copy of the check and the check stub attached are returned to the Accountant for filing. 25 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VII.D. CONTRACTOR PAYMENTS Purpose: To establish the policies and procedures for processing payments related to contracts. In addition to the annual federal pass through funds received from the state, WA also applies for and receives private or public grants as funds become available. Grants are normally applied for by WA and the services will be provided by one or more community partners. WA administers the grant and the partners perform the service. If a partner is not included in the grant agreement, a sub-recipient is contracted after the grant agreement has been finalized. Copies of all contracts and contract amendments are forwarded to the finance department. The contracts are distributed to the designated accountant. Contracts may also be negotiated with sub-recipients (or vendors) using formula fund awards (i.e. WIA and WTP). Upon receipt of a contract, the Accountant performs the following procedures: Create contract binder. Review contract payment terms and budget. Create an Excel file for the contract. Within the Excel file the Accountant creates different sheets as deemed necessary e.g. budget sheet listing the line item budget from the contract, invoice summary sheet that lists each invoice paid and date paid. The Excel file in used for tracking and monitoring of grant activities. The Accountant receives invoices monthly from the contractors. receipt of the invoice the following procedures are performed: Upon The Accountant logs the invoice into the Grant Invoice Year-To-Date Summary Excel Spreadsheet, and updates the spreadsheet with any missing payment information (check and payment date etc.). Payment information is obtained from the MIP accounting system. The Accountant submits the invoice to the program manager for review and approval to process the payment. The program manager resolves all discrepancies. The approved invoice is returned to the Accountant for processing. The Accountant reviews the invoice for accuracy e.g. mathematical calculations, rates, and unallowable cost. The Accountant codes the invoice, prepares a payment voucher, and attaches it to the invoice and supporting documentation. The package is forwarded to the CFO for review and approval. A copy of the invoice summary report is printed from Excel and attached to the package, along with a MIP report that shows all prior payments on the contract. Each grant has its own general ledger funding code. The cost category segment 26 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. of the general ledger code is used to identify the types of expenditure. Discrepancies noted are brought to the Accountant’s attention for correction. Particular attention is paid to the coding. The CFO signs and dates the package indicating his review and approval of the package. The package is returned to the Accountant for processing in MIP The Accountant enters the invoice in MIP as an Accounts Payable Session (See Section- VII.C. Accounts Payable –Recurring Payments). 27 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VII.F. EMPLOYEE TRAVEL Purpose: To establish policies and procedures for the authorization of employee travel. Only approved business-related travel expenses paid for by the employee in the course of conducting activities on behalf of the organization will be reimbursed. Employees are to take advantage of Workforce Alliance’s tax exempt status whenever possible. Workforce Alliance expects each employee to exercise good judgement in incurring business travel expenses, and to obtain proper prior approval. OUT OF TOWN TRAVEL Out of town travel is documented on a Travel Request and Expense Voucher and approved in advance by an employee’s Vice President or Chief Operating Officer and the Chief Executive Officer. If any of the costs for the travel have been paid in advance using the agency credit card, or if the individual traveling will be using the agency credit card, it must be documented on the Travel Request Voucher. Reimbursement Requests not submitted timely may be denied. Travel reimbursement requests for out of town travel shall be supported by the meeting agenda, and a trip report and shall be submitted within 31 days of the return from the travel. Travel costs include: transportation to and from the location of the event, lodging, meals, and related expenses. Mileage will be reimbursed based upon the Federal IRS rate rounded down to the even cent. Meals are reimbursed based on the actual cost incurred if reasonable and supported by a receipt, or an employee may elect to be paid for meals based on the per diem rates determined by the Government Services Administration for the city of travel for the date of the travel. (See www.gsa.gov). For partial days of travel the per diem will be prorated amongst the meals in accordance with the GSA guidelines. Travel must begin before 6:00 am to claim breakfast and end after 8:00 to claim dinner. Upon receipt of a travel reimbursement request the following procedures are performed: The Accountant verifies that the Travel Request and Expense Voucher has been properly completed and approved. Verify that all required receipts are attached. 28 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Verify that required documentation (trip report and meeting agenda) is attached. Recalculate the request for mathematical accuracy. Code the request and enter it into the MIP accounting system as an accounts payable session (See Section VII.C. Accounts Payable). Upon completion of the data entry, the Accountant prints out an Unposted transaction report from MIP, attaches the report to the batch and forwards the package to the Finance Director for review and posting. The batch is forwarded to the Accountant responsible for issuing checks (see Section IV.D. Cash Disbursement). LOCAL TRAVEL A completed and approved Mileage Voucher is required for local mileage reimbursement. The Mileage Voucher includes the mileage to and from the home office and the place traveled, the purpose of the travel, and the amount of miles traveled. It must be approved by the employee’s supervisor prior to submission for reimbursement. Upon receipt of an approved Mileage Voucher the procedures listed above under OUT OF TOWN TRAVEL are performed. The CEO/President and the VP of Business Development receive a gas credit card. As a result they are not reimbursed for local travel. Travel that does not require overnight stay does not qualify for meal reimbursement. Note: All mileage is from the home office to the event. If travel is from another location, the mileage paid will be the excess over the employee’s commuter mileage. Mileage to and from their main office is an employee’s responsibility which they agree to upon accepting a position. 29 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VII.G. AGENCY CREDIT CARDS Purpose: To establish policies and procedures for the use of WA’s credit cards. WA has four (4) company credit cards. The cards are an American Express, Visa, Home Depot, and a Shell Fleet credit card. All cards are issued in the Chief Executive Officer’s (CEO) and Workforce Alliance names. The American Express card remains with the CEO and is managed by him/her. The other cards are kept in a locked safe in the Finance Department. Approval for use of the cards in the safe shall be obtained from the CEO/President. All credit card usage shall be documented on the WA’s Credit Card Voucher Form. The user of the card must follow WA’s Procurement of Goods and Services/Employee Travel Policies and Procedures for items charged to the credit card. In addition, authorization for credit card usage is required prior to using the cards. Upon completion of the purchase, the employee submits the approved Credit Card Voucher to the designated Accountant within (2) business days. The Accountant files the voucher in the credit card file until the receipt of the monthly bill. The Accountant prepares a summary of charges (Excel spreadsheet listing expenditures) and completes a Payment Voucher and submits the package for review. The package is reviewed by the FD/CFO and the CEO. Each reviewer signs and dates the package indicating their review and approval. The approved package is returned to the Accountant for processing in the MIP accounting system. The final package is reviewed by a Board member prior to filing. The American Express payment is due upon receipt of the bill. As a result each month at the close of the billing cycle the Accountant accesses the account online and prints out the statement. Prior to receiving the supporting documentation, the Accountant processes the payment online. The expenses are recorded in the MIP accounting system against a balance sheet clearing account. Upon receipt of all supporting documentation, the procedures listed above are performed. After receipt of all approvals, a Journal Voucher is processed for removing the expense from the clearing account and charging them to the proper general ledger expense accounts. The Journal Voucher is reviewed, posted and approved by the CFO after it has been entered in MIP. The package is returned to the Accountant for filing. Personal use of company credit cards is discouraged and subject to prompt reimbursement. 30 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VIII.A. NEW EMPLOYEE AND CHANGE IN EMPLOYEE STATUS PROCEDURES Purpose: To establish policies and procedures related to new employees as well as a change in status of current employees. The Human Resources Manager performs WA’s human resource activities and supervises payroll processing functions. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) approves all new hire and pay rate changes for all employees. WA strictly prohibits discrimination based on race, sex, age, or marital status, as outlined in its Personnel Policy and Procedures Manual. For more details on WA’s human resource policies see the Personnel Policy and Procedures Manual. New employees and changes to employee payroll data are initiated by the Human Resources Manager . See Section VIII.B. -Payroll Procedures With Microix for payroll processing procedures. VIII.B. PAYROLL PROCEDURES WITH MIP Purpose: To establish the procedures for processing and recording the semi monthly payroll. Payroll is processed semi monthly internally using the MIP payroll module and Microix, the electronic timesheet module. All employee changes (new hires, position changes, benefit changes, etc.) are given to Accountant A by the Human Resources Manager. When the changes are made, the accountant stamps entered on the change form and files it in the payroll file for that period. The system is password driven. . All employees are required to register their hours and activities daily in Microix (electronic timesheet). At the end of the pay period, each employee submits their timesheet (electronically). Any leave is submitted electronically 31 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. and inserted into the timesheet prior to submission timesheet. The timesheet is routed electronically in accordance with the predetermined workflow. The timesheet is reviewed and either approved or rerouted back to the employee for correction. The last stop is accounting where it is reviewed for completeness, and reasonableness. The approved timesheets must be received first business day after the pay period ends. The procedures are as follows: 1) All employees must complete their timesheets in Microix, including details of the daily activities. 2) Employees without access to Microix either have the information input by someone else or complete a manual form and send it to Finance. 3) Changes to Default timesheets must be made prior to transferring microix timesheets to MIP payroll. 4) Completed and approved timesheets are transferred to MIP Payroll. 5) Input any manual timesheets into MIP payroll – regular timesheet for the current period. 6) Make any needed adjustment to individual employees regular timesheets. (ie: additional deductions, fitness enrollment, leave changes) 7) Follow MIP activities: A)Print and review timesheets for accuracy (Reports>Processing>Quick Timesheets). B) Calculate payroll (Activities>Calculate Payroll). If there are any problems with the calculation, the system displays an error message indicating the specific problems encountered during the calculation process. C) Review and/or edit calculated payroll (Activities>Review/Modify Calculated Payroll). To view a printout of the calculated payroll register, use the Reports>Processing>Quick Calculated Check Register form. This supplies a register of calculated—but not printed—payroll checks and vouchers. D) CFO approves the payroll register prior to printing checks/vouchers and creating the direct deposit file. E) Print the payroll checks and direct deposit vouchers (Activities>Print Checks/Vouchers). Remember that a payroll cannot be edited after confirming that the checks have been printed correctly. F) Print the payroll's check or voucher register for review and filing (Reports>History>Quick Check/Transaction Register). 32 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. G) Create a Direct Deposit File (Reports>Processing>Voucher Register). Print the direct deposit report, and/or export the direct deposit information to the appropriate file format (using an *.ACH file application). H) Enter information about payroll checks that were neither calculated nor printed by the system (Activities>Enter Manual Checks). I) Review the Pre-Transfer Register (Activities>Transfer to Accounting>PreTransfer button). It creates the transfer data to be used in the Reports>Processing>Pre-Transfer Register. J) Transfer the payroll data to the Accounting system (Activities>Transfer to Accounting). Note that this process creates unposted transactions in Accounting. K) Post transactions in the Accounting system (Activities>Manage Sessions>Post Transactions). To edit checks, use the Transactions>Edit System Generated Checks>Payroll System Checks, Payroll Manual Checks, or Payroll Void Checks forms in the Accounting system. Select the batch of checks on the Session form, and then change the check information or transaction entry line items on the Transaction Entry form. L) If necessary, undo a previously transferred payroll in the event that a correction needs to be made (Activities>Undo Transfer to Accounting). 8) Go online to Riverside Bank – select ACH and Upload Direct Deposit file and Initiate processing 9) Complete ACH origination form and fax to Riverside Bank 10) Transfer money from WA to PBWDC to cover payroll 11) Perform any needed allocations on PBWDC prior to preparing invoice. 12) PBWDC – invoice WA for payroll and record Revenue (wire) 13) WA- record payment of invoice (wire) 14) Run tax reports and make payments on line through EFTPS 15) EFPTS: WA Tax ID# 65-0709274 PIN 16) EFTPS: PBWDC Tax ID# 42-1738314 PIN 17) Record tax payments in MIP 18) Monthly – pay FRS via telephone 1-866-268-2937 The checks are signed by the CEO/President and another signor. The CEO/President signs the payroll check/voucher register to indicate that it was reviewed. (If an error is found a reversal for an ACH payment can be snet within five days of the original effective date). All W-2 forms and quarterly 941 forms are processed and filed by Finance. 33 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Leave balance information for each employee is maintained in the MIP/Microix system. The PTO is accrued each pay period. The accrual amount is based on the position and length of service of each employee. At the beginning of the fiscal year, the Human Resources Manager provides Finance with the updated employee’s PTO accrual if they have reached a milestone in years of employment. WA allows employees to carryover or bank up to 160 hours unused PTO at the end of the fiscal year . 34 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VIII.C. PAYROLL LIABILITIES Purpose: To establish the procedures for recording all liabilities associated with payroll. When the Accountant records the payroll as a Journal Voucher, the following payroll liabilities are recorded: Employee Health and Life Insurance Payable Retirement Payable (401K Plan) Other Payable e.g. United Way Payable The Accountant is responsible for paying the Employee Health and Life Insurance and other liabilities listed above through MIP’s AP module, following the procedures in Section VII.C. Accounts Payable. Payment of the liability for the retirement plan contributions is made via electronic funds transfer from the operating account. The transfer is processed by the Human Resources Manager. Employees earn Paid Time Off (PTO) based upon their length of employment with the company. When an employee leaves the company, their PTO is prorated and the remaining leave balance is paid to them. At the end of each fiscal year, the Human Resources Manager calculates the liability for unused PTO. The adjustment to expense and liability is recorded in the MIP accounting system via Journal Voucher by one of the Accountants. 35 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. VIII.D. EMPLOYEE ADVANCES Purpose: To establish policy regarding employee payroll advances Employee advances are not considered an ordinary, necessary, or reasonable cost for the administration of a federal grant. Thus, it is determined to be an unallowable cost according to the OMB Circular A-122, Cost Principles for NonProfit Organizations. Therefore employee advances are strictly prohibited. 36 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. IX.A. DEBT & OTHER LIABILITIES Purpose: To establish policies and procedures for the accounting of debt and other liabilities. Due to the nature of the funding sources WA receives from the State of Florida (primarily cost reimbursement grants); it is highly unlikely that the agency will incur debt or other long- term liabilities. However, cash advances are allowed by most funding sources, and these may be unearned revenue at times. At year end, a journal entry is made to classify revenue in excess of expenses, by funding sources, as either Deferred Revenue or a Payable depending on the specifics of the particular grant. 37 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. IX.B. NET ASSETS Purpose: To establish policies and procedures for the accounting of net assets. Net Assets are recorded and reported as unrestricted, and temporarily restricted as required by SFAS 117. Accounting entries are not made to the net asset account during the year. The MIP accounting system automatically closes all revenues and expenses to the net assets account during the year-end closing process. 38 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. X.A. ACQUISITION AND DISPOSITION OF FIXED ASSETS Purpose: To establish policy and procedure for the acquisition and disposition of fixed assets. The Operations Department handles acquisition and disposition of Fixed Assets. Fixed Asset Acquisitions are recorded as expenses during the year. This allows WA to report the items as expenditures in order to be reimbursed by the funding source for the cost incurred to purchase the item(s). Maintenance and repairs made to equipment and property are charged to expense as incurred. All assets are recorded in the general ledger at cost. At year end a journal entry is made to reclassify the applicable items from expense to the appropriate fixed asset account for financial reporting purposes. Individual items costing over $5,000 are capitalized and depreciated annually. Such items require individual prior approval from AWI. Any donated property or equipment is recorded at its fair market value on the date it is received. Assets purchased by WA with federal funds are managed in accordance with the property management requirements of OMB Circular A-110. During the year the Operations department retains copies of invoices and supporting documents for property and equipment purchased over $1,000. This allows WA to track additional property and equipment under the $5,000 limit, if necessary. See SOP FO-003 Fixed Asset Control for more information. The Operations Department notifies the Finance Department annually of all fixed asset disposals. The removal of the asset from the books is done at the end of the year as part of the year-end procedures performed by the Finance Department. This is done in conjunction with the depreciation calculations. These calculations are reviewed and approved by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Gains or losses are recorded upon receipt of notification of the disposal from the Operations Department. 39 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. X.B. DEPRECIATION Purpose: To establish the procedures for recording depreciation of the agency’s fixed assets. The Finance Department is responsible for performing the depreciation calculations annually as part of the year-end closing procedures. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives. WA’s estimated useful lives for property and equipment are: 3-5 years for furniture and equipment, and data processing equipment; and 5 years for vehicles. The Chief Financial Officer reviews and approves the depreciation calculation. Depreciation expense and accumulated depreciation are recorded in MIP through a Journal Voucher Session. The MIP entry is made by an Accountant. The CFO reviews the data entry and posts the transaction in MIP. 40 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. XI. COST ALLOCATION PLAN Purpose: To establish the method in which the WA allocates costs. WA’s cost allocation plan methodology is in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and with OMB Circular A-122, and it is approved by AWI annually. See the current approved Cost Allocation Plan. FUNDING DECISION MODIFICATIONS WA has structured this cost allocation plan in accordance with OMB Circular guidance. It should be noted that the Circulars provide a distinction between cost allocation and funding allocations. Management is aware of this distinction and makes funding decision modifications as needed. Cost allocations are performed monthly by the CFO (See Section XII.A – Month End Closing/Reporting Procedures). In addition to the monthly cost allocation, WA uses pre-designed MIP distribution codes to allocate joint costs (rent, security, postage, supplies, copier, maintenance, etc.) during the month. The distribution codes are using the applicable allocation base (Labor Hours). Each location has its own distribution code. If a service center location cannot be identified, the cost is charged to an operations pool department (service center pool). Upon receipt of an invoice, the Accountant reconciles it to the purchase requisition/order. Purchase requisitions/orders are coded with the appropriate six (6) segment general ledger code prior to submission to the Accounting Department. The second segment of the general ledger code identifies the pool or funding source to apply the cost. The coding is reviewed by the Accountant during the invoice processing and by the CFO prior to posting of the transaction to the general ledger. Within a distribution code, costs can be charged directly to a program or to a cost pool. The distribution codes are updated at least quarterly. 41 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. XII.A. MONTH-END CLOSING/REPORTING PROCEDURES Purpose: To establish WA’s procedures for performing month-end closings of the accounting records and the reporting of financial activities. The following steps are completed each month in order to close the accounting records and generate monthly reports: The Accountants prepare month end closing entries as necessary. Since cash reimbursement may only be drawn as disbursements are made, there is no real need to record monthly accruals. However, full accruals are made each 12/31 and 6/30. Each Accountant performs entries for their designated programs, vendors etc. The accrual and accrual reversal entries are performed at the same time. The effective date for the accrual shall be the last day of the current month, and the first day of the next month for the accrual reversal. The CFO verifies that all entries (cash receipts, journal vouchers, expenditures etc.) have been recorded and posted in the MIP accounting system for the month. The CFO ensures that the accounts payable sub-ledger agrees to the accounts payable control account. The Accountant completes the bank reconciliation for all cash accounts utilizing the Bank Reconciliation module in MIP and the Excel Spreadsheet. The CFO reviews and analyzes the general ledger and trial balance for any unusual items, and prepares adjusting or correcting journal vouchers, if needed. Entries prepared by the CFO are entered by one of the Accountants. The CFO reviews and approves all journal vouchers prior to recording the entry in the MIP accounting system. The pool allocation is done on a year to date basis. As a result, the prior month’s allocation must be reversed prior to beginning the allocation for the new month. The CFO performs the cost allocation for each cost pool. The allocation for pools 1,2, and 3 are calculated in Excel and entered into the MIP accounting system via journal voucher. . 42 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Print out and review the cost allocations. The cost allocation is reviewed by the CFO for review and approval prior to posting in MIP. Print the MIP Statement of Revenues and Expenditures – Job Cost by Funding for the one stop pools. The balance should be zero. All variances are researched and resolved immediately. Attach the report to the journal voucher and supporting documentations, then file. A summary report “expenses by program” and individual program expense reports are printed and used for the preparation of the monthly OSMIS reports. (See below for OSMIS reporting procedures). The monthly grant report is prepared which identifies each individual grant. It details the total available for the year, the year to date expenses, the current obligations, the estimated recurring expenses, and the amount still available. This is an Excel report which is reconciled to MIP and OSMIS. This report is given to the Finance Committee and the Board of Directors. The monthly WA Financial Summary is a one page legal size Excel report that has columns for each funding type and lists the major expenses categories. It also shows the total budget and budget variance. This report is reconciled to the monthly grant report. This report is given to the Executive team, Program directors and managers. MONTHLY REPORTING REQUIREMENTS WA – Monthly Financial Reports – Due to management after month end. State Monthly Expenditure (via OSMIS) Reporting – Due on or before the 20th of each month . PROCEDURES FOR PREPARING STATE MONTHLY REPORTING Verify that all month end closing procedures (cost allocation, reconciliations etc.) have been completed. Print year-to-date Statement of Revenues and Expenditures - Job Cost by Funding or Grouping reports from MIP accounting system. Review MIP Statement of Revenues and Expenditures reports for reasonableness. Use year- to- date expenditures from statements of revenues and expenditures to update Excel Spreadsheets used to reconcile MIP to OSMIS. 43 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Print year- to -date Financial Report Summary by program and year from OSMIS to determine amounts previously reported. Calculate the difference between year- to- date expenditures on MIP’s statement of revenues and expenditures reports and accrued expenses recorded in OSMIS (Financial Report Summary). The difference represents current month’s expenditure to be recorded in OSMIS. Total year to date expenditures recorded in OSMIS and current month’s expenditures to be recorded in OSMIS. The sum of both numbers should equal the year-to-date expenditures in MIP. Using the OSMIS cost categories, input current month expenditures into the system by program. For details of the OSMIS cost categories and data entry instructions see the Agency for Workforce Innovation One Stop Management Information System Financial Management Report Guide. Print out the updated year to date Financial Report Summary and attached to the MIP reports and other supporting documents used to prepare the OSMIS reports. Submit the package to the CFO for review and approval. The CFO reviews the report, signs and dates it to indicate his review and approval of amounts entered in OSMIS. The package is submitted to the CEO/President for review and approval File all documents in the Monthly Financial Statement Folder by month. The folders are kept in the accounting department cabinet for Monthly Financial Statements. 44 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. 45 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. XII.B. YEAR-END CLOSING/REPORTING PROCEDURES Purpose: To establish WA’s procedures for closing the accounting books at the end of the fiscal year and preparing financial reports. The following steps are completed at the end of the fiscal year in order to close the accounting books and prepare for the annual financial audit: The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) notifies all departments of the last date to receive supporting documentation for expenditures incurred during the fiscal year. The CFO notifies all service providers and training agents of the last date to receive invoices and supporting documentation for expenditures incurred during the fiscal year. Reimbursement requests/invoices not received by the closing date will not be honored. The Accountants review and analyze the general ledger accounts for each sub-recipient. The MIP Administrator updates the date restrictions in the MIP Administration module to warn users of entries made into the prior fiscal year and prohibit entry into any future fiscal years. The CFO is responsible for ensuring that the accounting staff records all transactions on the accrual basis of accounting at year-end. Transactions paid after June 30 are identified and properly recorded in the period they are incurred, not paid. The Finance department prepares all year-end entries e.g. depreciation, liability for compensated absences. Entries prepared by the CFO are entered by one of the Accountants. Prior to performing the data entry, all entries shall be approved by the CFO. The CFO reviews the dates of the payroll to determine whether a material amount of the pay period should be accrued into the current fiscal year. The Finance Department performs audits of each balance sheet account, and analyzes the revenue and expenditures for reasonableness. Any needed reconciliations are prepared. The VPA complete Grant Close-Out Forms for the organization’s funding sources, if necessary. 46 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. The Finance Department prepares schedules requested by the auditor. Upon completion of the annual financial audit, the Finance Department prepares journal vouchers for all audit adjustments. The journal vouchers are entered in the MIP accounting system by one of the Accountants. These entries are made in the AUD funding segment to indicate that they are audit entries. Thus, reports can easily be run in MIP to include/exclude audit entries. Entries prepared are reviewed and approved by the CFO prior to being entered by one of the Accountants. Once all of the audit entries have been entered into the accounting system, the MIP Administrator performs the Year-end Closing in MIP. This automatic function closes all of the revenue and expense accounts to fund balance and net assets. After closing the fiscal year, the MIP Administrator updates the date restrictions in the MIP Administration module in order to prohibit users from making entries into the closed fiscal year. ANNUAL REPORTING REQUIREMENTS Annual Audited Financial Statements – Due to Agency for Workforce Innovation by March 31st. Single Audit Reports in Accordance with OMB Circular A-133- due nine months after the end of the audit period (March 31) or within 30 days of receipt of the audit report, whichever occurs first. The data collection form and a copy of the report must be submitted to the Federal Audit Clearing House. Distribution of 1099’s by January 31st. Prior approval request form by June 15th. WTP certified forward request by July 15th. 47 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. XII.C. ANNUAL FINANCIAL AUDIT Purpose: To establish the policies related to obtaining and completing an annual financial audit. An independent financial and compliance audit is conducted annually by a certified public accountant. WA prepares and submits an audit plan to its grantor agency for approval by the due date specified each year. The plan is prepared by the CFO and complies with the requirements of AWI. The audit is procured competitively in accordance with AWI special guidance for audit procurement (FG 05-019). Proposals for audit services are received based upon predetermined specifications. The proposals are reviewed and ranked by WA management. WA staff negotiates the cost of the audit with the highest ranked firm. Upon completion of the audit, the management team is responsible for responding to any Reportable Conditions and Management Letter Recommendations found during the financial and compliance audits. The financial statements and audit reports are then presented to Management for review. The reports are then presented to the Executive Board and Audit/Finance Committee by the Auditors and CEO/CFO. Within 30 days after completion of the audit, WA transmits two copies of the audit report to AWI. If the report contains any findings related to the programs, a corrective action plan is also submitted. 48 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. XIII.A. COMPUTER MAINTENANCE AND DISASTER RECOVERY Purpose: To establish policies & procedures related to computer software maintenance and to ensure that accounting records can be recovered in the event of a disaster. COMPUTER MAINTENANCE The MIP Administrator performs the following computer software maintenance: Periodically performs data integrity checks in the Administration module Renews the annual support and maintenance agreement with MIP to ensure that the agency will receive any updates to the system, and have reliable support available The IT Department Installs all updates received from MIP in a timely manner, reviews all changes made by the update, and educates staff on these changes The CFO is responsible for ensuring that the IT Department performs all necessary updates to any other software utilized by the accounting department. DIASTER RECOVERY The IT Department does nightly backups of MIP and the network files. The back up is replicated to another WA location. Each WA location is backed-up to another location. See Workforce Alliance Disaster Plan for further information. 49 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. XIII.B. RECORDS RETENTION Purpose: To establish the policy and procedures for retaining accounting records. Records are maintained in sufficient detail to permit the preparation of all required reports and provide for the tracing of funds to a level of expenditure adequate to ensure that the funds have not been spent unlawfully. WA retains financial records and supporting documentation for seven (7) years from the end of each fiscal year. Financial records and supporting documentation are retained by the Accounting department on-site for the current and past fiscal year. The past fiscal year records are kept on file until the completion of the annual financial and compliance audits. Upon completion of the audits, the records are boxed and sent to WA’s storage facility. A log of all boxes shipped to storage. WA sub-recipients are required to maintain financial records in accordance with their contract. 50 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. XIV.A. MIP CASH RECEIPTS PROCESSING 1. Entering Cash Receipts Enter your cash receipts using the TransactionsEnter Cash Receipts. Cash receipts session: Session ID – CR/WeekEnding/DATE (E.G.CR/WE/03/25/05). Status – Should be BP (Batch to Post so you can review before posting) Description – Use Session ID. Date – Use today’s date. Start Key - This will begin the session. Entering the Cash Receipts: Receipt Number- Use the check number for checks, payment number (from Remittance Advice) for State of Florida transfer, and WIRE BT for BIO-TECH transfer. Be consistent with receipt numbering system for wire transfers. Date – This is the deposit date. Amount – Enter the amount of the check or wire transfer. Description – Use session ID/Funding Source or description of receipt. Deposit Number – Use receipt number. Recipient ID – Not used. 1st line in the grid: o Enter a code- for each segment in your chart of accounts. If no code is appropriate, use 000 (Pools Only). o Credit– Enter your amount here. o Entry type – for Cash Receipts, the type is always N for normal o Effective Date – This date is automatically the same as the deposit date and will therefore be the day it is recorded in your general ledger. o Description – This will be the same as the description you already entered above. You can accept this, override this or add more detail. This is what will appear in your general ledger detail. o Enter as many lines as necessary. Hit the offset button for the automatic debit to operating cash account. This is the 6th green & red button from the left above the receipt number. You can now memorize this document for future use or hit Save to move to a new receipt. 51 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. 2-Review Unposted Cash Receipts After entering all receipts, print a list of the receipts that you just entered using the ReportsTransaction ReportsUn-posted General Ledger Transactions. Pull up the cash receipts edit report. You must filter by the session ID you just entered to print only your un-posted cash receipts. Go to filter tab and select your session under criteria 1 box. Verify your receipts against this report and make any necessary additions or corrections to the batch before posting. To correct a receipt go to TransactionsEnter Cash Receipts. In the session ID box, select your session from the drop down and hit start. In the receipt box, select the receipt you are correcting. Correct the receipt and hit the offset key again to make sure your entry balances. Hit save and correct another or close the form. You can then reprint your receipts using Step 2. Submit your Unposted report, Cash Receipts and supporting documentation to the CFO for review and posting. 3 - Post Cash Receipts Post this batch of receipts using the ActivitiesManage SessionsPost Transactions. 4 – Print Posted Report (optional) Now that you've posted the transactions, you can verify that they posted using the ReportsTransaction ReportsPosted General Ledger Transactions. You must filter by the session ID you just entered to print only your posted batch. 52 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. XIV.B. MIP ACCOUNTS PAYABLE PROCESSING Remember, each accounts payable transaction requires a vendor ID. Consequently, the first step in the A/P process should be entering vendors (MaintainVendors), but the system has the capability to enter vendors "on-the-fly", so for this checklist, we'll assume you have already set up your vendors. 1. Entering Invoices Enter your batch of invoices using the TransactionsEnter A/P Invoices form. A/P Invoice Session: Session ID – Employee Initial/Today’s Date/API/Batch Number e.g. OM/040705/API-01. Status – Should be BP (Batch to Post so you can review before posting) Description – This could be “Daily or Weekly Batch”, “Invoice for New Computer”, etc. It is a good idea to use some type of description that indicates the reason for initiating the session. Date – Use today’s date Start key - This will begin the session Entering the Invoice: Invoice – Use the vendors invoice number if given. o If no number is given use - either invoice date and your initial, the date of service and the initials of the vendors name or the account number and the month. For e.g. Bellsouth invoice number for January 2001 invoice could be 011501BS. Remember: You will not be able to use this invoice number again in this batch or for this vendor. Therefore if you were paying two Bellsouth bills in the same session, the 1st one would be 011501BS-01 and the second 011501BS-02. Choose a numbering system and be consistent. Date – This is the date of the vendors invoice. If the vendor gives you no date, you can use the date of service. Amount – Enter the total amount of the invoice Description – This is what will appear on the top of the check for the payee to see. This is also what will appear in your general ledger. For this reason it is important to use some description e.g. “Service for June” or “Payment on account 123456”. Vendor – Either select from the list or if not on the list go to MaintainVendors and enter the vendor there. You must hit save before going back to the invoice. You do not have to close the invoice to enter a new vendor. Both can be open at the same time. 53 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. Due Date – Monday’s date. Transactions entered from Monday through midday Wednesday of the current week should have a due date of Monday next week. Transactions entered after midday Wednesday through Friday of the current week should have a due date of Monday of the week after next. 1st line in the grid: o o o o o o Enter a code for each segment in your chart of accounts. If a cost category cannot be determined use 000 (Pools Only). Debit – enter your amount here. Entry type – for A/P, the type is always N for normal Effective Date – Monday of next week. NOTE: If you want the expense to be recorded in a specific month, enter the month you want the expense to be recorded in. Description – This will be the same as the description you already entered above. You can accept this, override this or add more detail. This is what will appear in your general ledger detail. Enter as many lines as necessary Hit the offset button for the automatic credits to accounts payable. This is the 6th green & red button from the left above the invoice number. You can now memorize this document for future use or hit Save to move to a new invoice. 2-Review Unposted Invoices After entering all invoices, print a list of the invoices that you just entered using the ReportsTransaction ReportsUnposted General Ledger Transactions. Pull up your AP Edit Report. You must filter by the session ID you just entered to print only your un-posted invoices. Go to filter tab and select your session under criteria 1 box. Verify your invoices against this report and make any necessary additions or corrections to the batch before submitting your batch for review and posting. To correct an invoice go to TransactionsEnter A/P Invoices. In the session ID box, select your session from the drop down and hit start. In the invoice box, select the invoice you are correcting. Correct the invoice and hit the offset key again to make sure your entry balances. Hit save and correct another or close the form. You can then reprint your invoices using Step 2. Submit your Unposted report, Invoices and supporting documentation to the CFO for review and posting. 54 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. 3 - Post Invoices Post this batch of A/P invoices using the ActivitiesManage SessionsPost Transactions. 4 – Print Posted Report (optional) Now that you've posted the transactions, you can verify that they posted using the ReportsTransaction ReportsPosted General Ledger Transactions. You must filter by the session ID you just entered to print only your posted batch. Once these transactions are posted, you can use MaintainEnter A/P Credit Memos or Enter A/P Manual Checks, or ActivitiesCheck WritingPay Selected A/P Invoices to credit, pay, or partially pay these invoices. Generating Checks 1. In order to generate checks, you'll need to select the invoices that you want to pay using the ActivitiesCheck WritingSelected Invoices to Pay. Select invoices to be paid based on aged accounts payable report from last week (report used to request cash needs) or Use the pay criteria button (red arrows) located in the top left corner to filter for the due date you want. 2. You can print a report to ensure that the correct invoices are selected for payment using the ReportsA/P AnalysisInvoices Selected for Payment. 3. Now, let's print checks using the ActivitiesCheck WritingPay Selected A/P Invoices form. Your session ID will be same as above except the type is APS instead of API. Status is BP, give a meaningful description, today’s date and the date you want to appear on the checks. Put in your starting check number. Select Laser A/P Checks (Default). DO NOT say YES to “Did all forms print correctly” until you are positive they did! 4. Post the check run after you print checks using ActivitiesManage SessionsPost Transactions. 5. Print a list of posted checks using the ReportsCheck Register. 55 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. XIV.C. MIP JOURNAL VOUCHER PROCESSING Journal Vouchers are used for recording various transactions (e.g. accruals, reclassifications, revenue, accounts receivable, and adjusting entries) into the general ledger. All Journal Vouchers must be reviewed and approved by the Chief Financial Officer prior to being entered in the MIP accounting system. 1. Entering a Journal Voucher Enter your journal voucher using the TransactionsEnter Journal Voucher. Journal Voucher Session: Session ID – Year/JV/Month/Initials/Number/ (ie: 05JV02NL01). The number is prefaced by the following to identify the purpose of the JV: S=Special, R=Reversal, Acc=Accrual, PR= Payroll, PL=Pool Status – Should be BP (Batch to Post so you can review before posting) Description – Description of entry e.g. March Accruals. Date – Use today’s date. Start Key - This will begin the session. Entering Journal Voucher: Voucher Number- Use the Session ID. Date – Use the effective date for Journal Voucher. Description – Use session ID/Entry Description (e.g. March Payroll Accrual). 1st line in the grid: o Enter a code for each segment in your chart of accounts. If no code is appropriate, use 000 (Pools Only). o Debit – Enter your amount here. o Entry type – Journal Voucher, the type is always N for normal. The type for year end adjusting entries is A. o Effective Date – This date is automatically the same as the date entered above and will therefore be the day it is recorded in your general ledger. If you want this entry to be recorded in a different month, override this date and put the month you want the entry to be recorded in. o Description – This will be the same as the description you already entered above. You can accept this, override this or add more detail. This is what will appear in your general ledger detail. o Repeat the steps above (start at enter a code) for the credit side of the entry. o Enter as many lines as necessary You can now memorize this document for future use or hit Save to move to a new voucher. 56 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. 2-Review Unposted Journal Voucher After entering all journal vouchers, print a list of the vouchers that you just entered using the ReportsTransaction ReportsUn-posted General Ledger Transactions. Pull your journal voucher edit report. You must filter by the session ID you just entered to print only your un-posted journal voucher session. Go to filter tab and select your session under criteria 1 box. Verify your vouchers against this report and make any necessary additions or corrections to the batch before posting. To correct a voucher go to TransactionsEnter Journal Voucher. In the session ID box, select your session from the drop down and hit start. In the Journal Voucher box, select the voucher you are correcting. Correct the voucher and verify that the entry is in balance. Hit save and correct another or close the form. You can then reprint your vouchers using Step 2. Submit your Un-posted report, Journal Voucher and supporting documentation to the CFO for review and posting. 3 - Post Journal Vouchers Post this batch of vouchers using the ActivitiesManage SessionsPost Transactions. 4 – Print Posted Report (optional) Now that you've posted the transactions, you can verify that they posted using the ReportsTransaction ReportsPosted General Ledger Transactions. You must filter by the session ID you just entered to print only your posted batch. 57 WORKFORCE ALLIANCE, INC. XIV.D. MIP BANK RECONCILIATION PROCESSING The Accountant signs on to MIP by entering their User ID and Password and completes the steps listed below. Upon completions, the Accountant signs the reconciliation and submits it to the Chief Financial Officer for Review and Approval. Select “Activities” option from the menu bar. Select “Reconcile Cash Account” from the menu bar. Enter the general ledger cash account number. Enter the reconciliation date. Select the tab for “Checks” and check-off checks that have cleared the bank. Select the tab for “Deposits” and check-off deposits that have cleared the bank. Select the tab for “Other Cash Items” and clear accordingly. Select the “Summary” tab and enter the ending bank statement balance. Print the Bank Reconciliation Statement. Go to the “Report” tab on the menu bar and select “Bank Reconciliation Analysis” and print the supporting outstanding checks and deposits. Review sign and approve the bank reconciliation. Submit the signed reconciliation and all supporting documentation to the Chief Financial Officer for review and approval. Submit the signed reconciliation and all supporting documentation to the CEO/President for review and approval 58 Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: Policy,Eligibility & Funding for Dislocated Worker STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-055 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 07/18/2007 AUTHOR NAME: Reggie OConnor LAST UPDATE DATE: 2007-06-18 11:55:15 BY: Reggie OConnor AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WIA DOCUMENT TYPE: POLICY DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue (Replaces SOP OC-006) DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE 01 07/18/2007 DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE Initial Issue (Replaces SOP OC-006) 1.0 PURPOSE: 1. To provide guidance to the Direct Services Provider (DSP) staff in conducting participant eligibility for the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Dislocated Worker Program. 2.0 APPLICATION: 1. To provide guidance to the Direct Services Provider (DSP) staff in conducting participant eligibility for the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Dislocated Worker Program. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. WIA - Workforce Investment Act TOL - Targeted Occupation List SOP - Standard Operating Procedure DSP - Direct Service Provider DW - Dislocated Worker EFM - Employ Florida Marketplace WARN - Workers Adjustment Retraining Notification 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. Regional Targeted Occupations List 07-08 http://www.labormarketinfo.com/wec/tols/07-08_prelim_000021.pdf 2. Workforce Investment Act Final Rules 2000 http://www.doleta.gov/regs/statutes/finalrule.pdf 3. WIA Forms - Path on the "P" Drive to the Forms P:\MASTER FORMS INDEX-Directory\WIA Forms 4. Coordinating of Funding For Training - SOP 052 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-052,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=119 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. Access to the Employ Florida Marketplace system 2. Access to the Gazelle tracking system 3. Access to the Unemployment Insurance records 6.0 POLICY: BACKGROUND/AUTHORITY: Participants may be determined eligible for the Dislocated Worker Program programs and services funded by the Workforce Alliance if they meet the eligibility requirements as set forth in the following rules and regulations: a) the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, Public Law 105220, Section 101 (9) and (10); and b) the WIA Final Rules 2000, 20CFR Part 652, and as further defined by the Alliance. To be eligible for services in the Dislocated Worker (DW) program, individuals must meet the following criteria: 1. Be 18 years of age or older (CFR 663.110), AND 2. Meet one of the following four categories: Category 1: An individual who: (a) has been terminated or laid off, or who has received a notice of termination or layoff, from employment; AND (b) is eligible for or has exhausted entitlement to unemployment compensation or has been employed for a duration sufficient to demonstrate to the Direct Service Provider (DSP) “attachment to the workforce” but is not eligible for unemployment compensation due to insufficient earnings or having performed services for an employer that was not covered under State unemployment compensation law; AND (c) is unlikely to return to a previous industry or occupation. Category 2: An individual who: (a) has been terminated or laid off or has received a notice of termination or layoff as a result of any permanent closure of, or substantial layoff at, a plant, facility or enterprise; OR (b) is employed at a facility at which the employer has made a general announcement that such facility will close within 180 days; OR (c) for purposes of eligibility to receive ONLY core services, is employed at a facility at which the employer has made a general announcement that such facility will close. Category 3: An individual who: was self-employed (including employment as a farmer, rancher or fisherman), but is unemployed as a result of general economic conditions in the community in which the individual resides or because of natural disasters; or Category 4: An individual who: is a displaced homemaker -- an individual who has been providing unpaid services to family members in the home and who a) has been dependent on the income of another family member but is no longer supported by that income; AND b) is unemployed or underemployed and is experiencing difficulty in obtaining or upgrading employment. TERMINOLOGY The following definitions explain some of the terms used above. 1. “Attachment to the Means that the individual worked for at least 7 days prior to workforce” eligibility determination 2. “Unlikely to return” has Applicant’s occupation or industry of dislocation is not in been defined by the demand (e.g. not on the Alliance’s Targeted Occupation List Workforce Alliance to (TOL), or not in local demand as determined by local labor mean one of the market surveys) AND there are 3 or less job listings of the following: applicant’s occupation or industry of dislocation within commuting distance (35 miles) of the applicant’s residence. OR The applicant’s skill level from the occupation or industry of dislocation no longer meets the entry requirement of that occupation or industry as determined by an unsuccessful 30day job search in the applicant’s occupation or industry of dislocation. (Minimum of 12 job searches, at least 3 per week, over a 30-day period in occupation or industry of dislocation, and registered in the Employ Florida Marketplace EFM system); OR. An individual who is unable to return to their occupation or industry or dislocation due to a physical incapacity documented by a letter from their doctor stating the individual cannot return to this job. “Substantial layoff” Any reduction in force which is not the result of a plant closing and which results in an employment loss at a single site of employment during any 30-day period for At least 33% of employees (20+ hours per week) – minimum 50 employees “General announcement” a public announcement including newspaper articles and news releases. Eligibility for DISLOCATED WORKER Program Terminated or Laid Off or Letter from employer; Notice of Termination (“pink slip”) Received a Notice of Termination Unemployment Compensation claims information of Layoff supporting the layoff status Eligible for or exhausted Documentation from Unemployment Compensation entitlement to unemployment compensation Unlikely to return Permanent closure of plant, facility or enterprise (See definition above), also see attached "Dislocated Worker & General Eligibility Checklist" form. Workers Adjustment Retraining Notification (WARN) notice Public announcement, including newspaper article and News Release. (Workers who have not received an individual notice of termination but who are employed at a facility for which the employer has made a public Substantial layoff announcement of planned closure shall be considered eligible for the Dislocated Worker program and will receive Core Services.) Workers Adjustment Retraining Notification (WARN) notice Letter from employer which indicates the percentage of affected workers (see substantial layoff definition above. Verification of age and documentation of substantial barriers to employment (defined as loss of occupational choices of a class or group of jobs by reason of age). Business license Documentation of earnings and expenditures Income tax statement Older Individuals with substantial barriers by reason of age Self-employed (including farmers and ranchers) General Economic Conditions Verification of: Natural Disasters Failure of one or more businesses to which the selfemployed individual supplied a substantial proportion of projects or services. Failure of one or more businesses from which the selfemployed individual obtained a substantial proportion of products or services. Substantial layoff(s) from, or permanent closure(s) of, one or more plants or facilities that support a significant portion of the state or local economy. Copy of Proclamation by the Governor Newspaper article announcing the Proclamation of the Governor Notification of National Declaration of Disaster Public Announcement (such as a news release) (The categories of natural disasters include, but are not limited to, hurricane, tornado, storm, flood, high water, wind-driven water, tidal wave, earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide, mudslide, drought, fire, or explosion.) 7.0 FLOWCHARTS: N/A Attachment Files: View File Attachment: WIA-012 Dislocated Worker Eligibility Checklist.doc, WIA Dislocated Worker Eligibility Checklist SIGNATURE PAGE DOCUMENT APPROVALS (ELECTRONIC DISTRIBUTION PROCESS) NAME DOCUMENT NO: PO-055 ISSUE NO: 01 TITLE SIGNATURE DATE APPROVED Reggie OConnor Author Reggie OConnor 06/18/07 Maria Heredia Reviewer Maria Heredia 06/18/07 Don Scantlan Administrator Don Scantlan 06/18/07 Jan Cook Approver 1 Jan Cook 06/18/07 Joyce Fisher Approver 2 Joyce Fisher 06/18/07 Ike Powell III Approver 3 Ike Powell III 06/18/07 NAME Kathryn Schmidt FINAL APPROVAL TITLE SIGNATURE President/CEO Kathryn Schmidt DATE APPROVED 07/18/07 Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: Policy, Eligibility & Funding Priority-WIA Adult STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-054 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 07/18/2007 AUTHOR NAME: Reggie OConnor LAST UPDATE DATE: 2007-06-14 09:56:57 BY: Reggie OConnor AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WIA,WTP DOCUMENT TYPE: POLICY DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue (Replaces SOP OC-005) DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE 01 02 07/18/2007 DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE Initial Issue (Replaces SOP OC-005) Issue No. 02 1.0 PURPOSE: 1. To direct the One-Stop Operator and/or direct services staff in determining eligibility and funding priority for participants in the Adult Program of the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) 2.0 APPLICATION: 1. This document applies to all Career Consultants that assist with WIA eligibility determination. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. WIA - Workforce Investment Act LLSIL - Lower Living Standard Income Level TOL - Targeted Occupation List SOP - Standard Operating Procedure DSP - Direct Service Provider 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. Lower Living Standard Income Level (LLSIL) and Federal Poverty Guidelines for 2006 http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/communique/06-08_2006LLSIL_061206.pdf 2. Regional Targeted Occupations List 07-08 http://www.labormarketinfo.com/wec/tols/07-08_prelim_000021.pdf 3. Workforce Investment Act Final Rules 2000 http://www.doleta.gov/regs/statutes/finalrule.pdf 4. WIA Forms - Path on the "P" Drive to the Forms P:\MASTER FORMS INDEX-Directory\WIA Forms 5. Coordinating of Funding For Training - SOP 052 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-052,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=119 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. Access to the Employ Florida Marketplace system 2. Access to the Gazelle tracking system 6.0 POLICY: BACKGROUND/AUTHORITY: Participants may be determined eligible for programs and services funded by the Workforce Alliance if they meet the eligibility requirements under the Adult Program set forth in the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (WIA), Public Law 105-220, the WIA Final Rules, 20CFR Part 652, and as further defined by the Alliance. This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) establishes the policy for determining eligibility and funding priority under the WIA Adult Program. Authority is WIA section 134(d)(4) (E) POLICY: WIA section 134(d)(4)(E) states that in the event that WIA funds allocated to a local area for Adult employment and training activities are limited, priority shall be given to recipients of public assistance and other low income individuals for intensive services and training services. The Workforce Alliance has determined that there are not sufficient WIA Adult Program funds to pay the training costs of all adults in Palm Beach County who could benefit from training. Therefore, the Workforce Alliance has developed this Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to establish a funding/eligibility priority. Other funding sources such as PELL Grants and Welfare Transition funds are to be considered when funding individuals for training. Where possible, the Alliance seeks to utilize PELL Grants or Welfare Transition funds as a first resource to fund training for public assistance recipients. Use of WIA Adult Program funds will be based on the priority of service categories outlined below. Priority of Service: Priorities #1, 2 and 3, defined below, shall be in effect unless otherwise directed by the Workforce Alliance. Priority #1: Low income (as defined in WIA Section 101(25)) Priority #2: Employed Worker Priority #3: Barrier and unable to pay for needed service Priority #4: Barrier or unable to pay for needed services Priority #5: Customer pays based on sliding scale Determine priority-funding level. Use the attached forms - "Personal Finance Review" the "Self Sufficiency Worksheet" the "Income Applicant Statement" and the "Income Worksheet" - they can be found on the "P" drive under the Master Forms Index, see path above, to determine funding priority for Priorities 2-4. Note: Priority #1 & 2 are the first choice for determining eligibility. #1 An individual determined to have low income (as defined in WIA section 101 (25)) during eligibility determination will receive the first priority for intensive and/or training funds. #2 An individual who is employed at the time of eligibility determination and who's individual or family income meets the local definition of “lacks selfsufficiency” - earning $30 per hour or less, or is at risk of being laid off, will receive the second priority for intensive and/or training funds. #3 An individual who is not low income OR employed at time of eligibility, BUT who has at least one documented barrier to employment, AND cannot pay for intensive and/or training services, will receive third priority for intensive and/or training funds. #4 An individual who is not low income OR employed at time of eligibility , but who has at least one documented barrier to employment, OR cannot pay for intensive and/or training services based on completion of a Financial Assessment, will receive fourth priority to intensive and/or training funds #5 This priority is yet to be developed, but will provide the latitude to offer services to customers who ARE ineligible for WIA funds and can pay for all or part of the cost of intensive and/or training services. . NOTE: This is a future category and is not available at this time. Terminology: Below are definitions of (1) Low Income, (2) Employed Worker and Lacks Self-Sufficiency, (3) Barriers, and (4) Unable to Pay. (1) Low Income: An individual who meets any one of the following 4 definitions qualifies for the WIA Adult Program under "low income". A "low income" individual is one who: a. receives, or is a member of a family that receives, cash payments (TANF, SSI, etc.) under a Federal, State, or local income-based public assistance program; OR b. receives an income (or is a member of a family that received a total family income) for the 6month period prior to application that, in relation to family size, does not exceed levels in the Low Income table. (See link above for Low Income Levels and Federal Poverty Guidelines; OR c. is a member of a household that receives (or has been determined within the 6-month period prior to application to be eligible to receive) food stamps pursuant to the Food Stamps Act; OR d. qualifies as a homeless individual. (2) Employed Worker: An individual who is employed at the time of eligibility determination. This individual must meet one of the following conditions for eligibility. Lacks self-sufficiency – earning $30 per hour or less Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: WTP Support Services Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-002 ISSUE NUMBER: 02 EFFECTIVE DATE: 09/03/2008 AUTHOR NAME: Carol McNamee LAST UPDATE DATE: 2008-08-18 12:00:08 BY: Carol McNamee AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WTP DOCUMENT TYPE: DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: DOCUMENT HISTORY EFFECTIVE ISSUE DATE PROCEDURE Increase in support services dollar limit; monthly transportation limit;employment application fee; DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 09/17/2007 Initial Issue 02 09/03/2008 Increase in support services dollar limit; monthly transportation limit;employment application fee; 1.0 PURPOSE: To provide guidance to staff on the issuance of Support Services to participants of the Welfare Transition Program (WTP) that is not to exceed $1000 per program year (excluding child care). 2.0 APPLICATION: This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff and Career Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to the issuance of Support Services. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Applicant - an individual who has applied for but who has not yet been approved for TCA AWI-Agency Workforce Innovation DCF – Department of Children and Families Gazelle - a web application that manages support services and training accounts for participants IRP-Individual Responsibility Plan Mandatory - TANF case is still open; receiving TCA OSST-One Stop Service Tracking Program Year – July 1st-June 30th TANF - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families TCA - Temporary Cash Assistance Transitional - Employed; TANF case is closed due to earned income WTP-Welfare Transition Program 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. AWI Communiqué - Lower Living Standard Income Level (LLSIL) and Federal Poverty Guidelines 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. for 2008, http://www.floridajobs.org/PDG/communique/08-10_2008_LLSIL_061708.pdf Florida Statutes Chapter 445.025 - Other Support Services, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC025.HTM&Title=-%3e2005-% 3eCh0445-%3eSection%20025#0445.025 Florida Statutes Chapter 445.031 Transitional Transportation, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC031.HTM&Title=-%3e2005-% 3eCh0445-%3eSection%20031#0445.031 WTP Automobile Repairs' Policy, PO009 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-009,% 20Issue=03&SopFormId=212 WTP Child Care Services Policy, PO-011: http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-011,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=213 WTP Domestic Violence Policy, PO-041, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-041,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=215 7. WTP Relocation Assistance Policy, PO-006: 8. 9. 10. 11. http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-006,% 20Issue=03&SopFormId=209 WTP Support Services Policy, PO-001, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-001,% 20Issue=04&SopFormId=222 WTP Support Services Work Instruction, PO-077, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-077,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=219 UP-Front Diversion Policy, PO-018: http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx? DocNo=PO-018,%20Issue=02&SopFormId=214 WTP Work Registration Policy, PO-046, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-046,% 20Issue=03&SopFormId=205 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Access to OSST Access to FLORIDA Access to Gazelle Childcare Authorization and Referral Form AWI, 5002 - available on the Forms Index Notice of Change in Child Care Status, AWI 5235 - available on the Forms Index 6.0 PROCEDURE: A. The Career Consultant will provide the WTP participant with Support Services ONLY after verification that the participant is eligible, remains in compliance and is engaged in an appropriate activity(s) for no less than 35+ hours. All support services must be entered into OSST and/or Gazelle, depending on the type of support service. B. The following forms of documentation must be provided to the Career Consultant in order for participants to receive any type of support services: 1. For all applicant cases, the participant must provide the original DCF Communication and Work Activity Referral, Form #CF-ES 2097. 2. All open mandatory cases, the Job Participation Rate screen must be current, in compliance (35+ hours) and provide either time-sheets, pay stubs, school attendance, job search forms, etc. that relate to their current Core and Core plus activities. 3. For all Transitional participants, the participant must have provided an employment verification form and/or pay stubs. If they have lost employment within 30 days job search forms are to be provided. C. Participant must be advised by the WTP Career Consultant if purchases are for items other than what the clothing voucher was intended, the participant will be required to reimburse Workforce Alliance the exact cost of unauthorized purchases or participant will be prohibited from receiving any further support services. Note: Please refer to the WTP Support Services Work Instruction, PO-077 for specific support services to provide to all participants in the program. DATA ENTRY REQUIRED IN OSST TO - Issue WTP Support Services WTP Applicants, Mandatory or Transitional Participants – Activity Type Section The following appropriate activities must be entered in OSST in order to provide any support services: Applicants = Orientation Mandatory Participants = Core/Core Plus Activities, 35+ hours Transitional Participants = Proof of Employment or Job Search The start date of the activity for which they are receiving a support service must be on or before the service was issued. Appropriate documentation must be placed in the hard copy file. WTP Applicants, Mandatory or Transitional Participants – Service Type Section All support services must be entered on the Skill Development screen under “Service” in OSST The provider for any support services must correspond to the center the career consultant is located (West Career Center, Central Career Center, South Career Center). Transportation, Clothing, Tools, Licenses/Fees/Books, Transitional Transportation, Transitional Tools, Transitional Clothing, Transitional Licenses/Fees, etc. must be entered. The “Service Recipients in House” section does not need to be checked unless the participant is receiving a child care support service. The actual start date is the first date the participant was issued any type of approved support services. The anticipated end date for: Applicants = up to 3 days for bus passes, 1 day for $20 gas card and 10 business days (or 20 calendar days) for child care referral. Mandatory Participants = 3 months after the start date for a child care referral; monthly for bus passes. Transitional Participants = 6 months after the start date for a child care referral; monthly for bus passes. To Update the Service Budget on the Service Plan screen: Select the Service Budget hyperlink and update the amount of the support service for accounting purposes. The support service should be updated to reflect the current program year. WTP Applicants, Mandatory or Transitional Participants – Need/Barrier Section of the IRP For any support services that are provided to the participants, or that a career consultant has identified must be listed on the IRP in the Plan Development screen under “Barriers”. Select the Need/Barrier that pertains to the participant. The status should be “identified” and the “date identified”, is the date the participant has made a statement that the support service(s) is in fact a need/barrier, but has not yet received the support service(s). Once the participant receives a support service, the status “identified” must be changed to “In Progress”. The date must be changed to the date the participant was issued their first support service. Enter an expected Resolution Date when the need/barrier is expected to be achieved. The radio button must be checked "yes" under "Barriers" in the IRP for any support services provided. (The Resolution Date is not filled unless the need/barrier has been resolved, unresolved, etc). WTP Applicants, Mandatory or Transitional Participants – Steps to Self-Sufficiency Section of the IRP Select Plan Development screen in OSST and enter a step under the steps to self sufficiency section describing the step needed for the participant. Enter a scheduled completion date as the date the step should be completed. Enter the person(s) responsible to over-come the need/barrier The status is “open”. (The Completion Date is not filled unless the step has been closed). Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: WTP Medical Incapacity & Deferral Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-013 ISSUE NUMBER: 03 EFFECTIVE DATE: 02/11/2010 AUTHOR NAME: Maryann Garrett LAST UPDATE DATE: 2009-08-14 17:13:21 BY: Maryann Garrett AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: Welfare Transition DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Amended Gas Card Allowance for partial participation DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 09/11/2007 Initial Issue 02 09/03/2008 Initial Issue 03 02/11/2010 Amended Gas Card Allowance for partial participation 1.0 PURPOSE: 1. The purpose of this document is to provide a procedure for the case management of a participant who may or may not be able to participate in required work activities due to medical incapacity or other deferral reasons. 2.0 APPLICATION: 1. This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff and Career Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to the medical incapacity and medical deferral procedure of the program. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. Applicant = an individual who has applied for but who has not yet been approved for cash assistance 2. ARP = Alternative Responsibility Plan 3. AWI = Agency for Workforce Innovation 4. IRP = Individual Responsibility Plan 5. Mandatory = TANF case open; receiving TCA 6. SAMH - Substance Abuse and/or Mental Health 7. SSI = Supplemental Security Income 8. SSDI - Social Security Disability Income 9. TANF – Temporary Assistance for Needy Families 10. TCA – Temporary Cash Assistance 11. Transitional = Employed; case is closed due to earned income 12. WTP = Welfare Transition Program 1. Deferral Definitions: ◦ Medical Deferral (Less than 90 days) – Use only if a specific time frame is indicated on the form ◦ Medical Deferral (90 days or more) – Use only if deferred for a longer period of time ◦ Alcohol, Drug, Mental Deferral (Less than 90 days) – Use only if the participant is receiving treatment at a SAMH facility. ◦ Alcohol, Drug, Mental Deferral (90 days or more) – Use only if the participant is receiving treatment at a SAMH facility. ◦ Deferred – High Risk Pregnancy – “High risk” must be identified by a physician. All pregnancies are not high risk. ◦ Deferred – Lack of Child Care – Based upon a lack of availability of services (such as providers that don’t accept infants) and not upon a parent’s preference for a particular provider. ◦ Deferred – Lack of Transportation – Based upon a lack of the availability of public transportation in a participant’s residence and/or ability to participate in required activities. ◦ Deferred – Domestic Violence – Participant’s disclosure is minimum amount of documentation needed to enter this deferral. ◦ Deferred – SSI Applicant – Must be accompanied by official paperwork from the Social Security Administration that demonstrates application for SSI or SSDI. ◦ Deferred – Other – Must be accompanied by a case note that explains the reason for the deferral, i.e., temporarily caring for a disabled family member prior to being determined exempt by DCF. (This is rarely used) ◦ Deferred – State Emergency – Do not use this code; it is issued only by the State of Florida for case managers to use in the event of a natural disaster, emergency, etc. 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. AWI Final Guidance - Domestic Violence, http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/026%20Domestic%20Violence.rtf 2. AWI Final Guidance – Medical Incapacity, http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/051MedicalIncapacity100505.pdf 3. Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, http://www.rehabworks.org/ 4. Florida Administrative Code (FAC) 65A-4.206, https://www.flrules.org/gateway/RuleNo.asp? ID=65A-4.206 5. Florida Statute 414.065 (4)(d), http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0414/SEC065.HTM&Title=-%3e2007 -%3eCh0414-%3eSection%20065#0414.065 6. Florida Statute Chapter 414.0655, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0414/SEC0655.HTM&Title=-% 3e2007-%3eCh0414-%3eSection%200655#0414.0655 7. Florida Statute Chapter 414.105, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0414/SEC105.HTM&Title=-%3e2007 -%3eCh0414-%3eSection%20105#0414.105 8. Florida Statute Chapter 445.024, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC024.HTM&Title=-%3e2007 -%3eCh0445-%3eSection%20024#0445.024 9. Florida Statute Chapter 458, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=Ch0458/titl0458.htm&StatuteYear=2007&Title=% 2D>2007%2D>Chapter%20458 10. Florida Statute Chapter 459, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=Ch0459/titl0459.htm&StatuteYear=2007&Title=% 2D>2007%2D>Chapter%20459 11. WTP Assessments & Development of IRP/ARP Procedure, PO-022, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-022,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=220 12. WTP Assessments & Development of IRP/ARP Work Instructions, PO-076, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-076,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=208 13. WTP Domestic Violence Procedure PO-042, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-042,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=109 14. WTP Hardship Extension Procedure, PO-012, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmNewSopDoc.aspx?SopFormId=76 15. WTP Medical Incapacity and Deferral Policy PO-003, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-003,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=211 16. WTP Medical Incapacity and Deferral Work Instruction PO-075, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-075,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=207 17. WTP Work Penalties and Pre-Penalty Counseling Procedure PO-039, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-039,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=105 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: All of the forms listed below are available on the Forms Index: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Alternative Responsibility Plan WTP-002 Medical Verification Form, AWI-WTP 2288(a) (pages 1 & 2) Medical Verification Form WTP-001- Page 3 (replaces only page 3 of AWI-WTP 2288(a)) SSI/SSDI Agreement of Understanding Extension of Time Limits, AWI-2287 SSI/SSDI Time Limit Extension Review Form, AWI-2289 Statement of Need for Care, CF-ES 2094 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment Form, CF-ES 2299 WTP-034 Medical Calendar 6.0 PROCEDURE: If a participant is unable to fully participate with their required work activities he/she may be deferred or partially deferred from participation based on the documentation received. The participant continues to be mandatory and may be required to participate in core/core plus activities or alternative activities through a treatment facility, domestic violence shelter, etc. 1. The Career Consultant will give the participant the Medical Verification form AWI WTP 2288 (a) (only pages 1 & 2) and WTP-001 Medical Verification Form- Page 3 to present to their physician to complete and sign. The physician must be licensed under Florida Statute Chapters 458 or 459 (an M.D. or a D.O). The form must have a hand-written signature, NOT a stamped signature. Once completed, the participant will then return the completed forms to the Career Consultant. 2. Once the medical verification form has been either mailed, hand-delivered, faxed, scanned, emailed to a participant or that a participant verbally states that they are not able to participate in the required WT activities, 35+ hours a week in a core/core plus activity is still required regardless. WTP participation must continue until all signed medical documentation mentioned in Step 3 has been returned, (including mandatory information) to the Career Consultant and there is no suspicion of fraud or altered documents. 3. In the event that the above mentioned forms are not signed by a physician for whatever reasons beyond the participant’s control, the participant may also provide correspondence from their physician (an M.D. or D.O.) as long as it includes mandatory information (listed below) outlined in the Medical Verification Form, AWI-WTP 2288(a) and Medical Verification Form, WTP-001 – Page 3 ◦ Statement from physician (on letter-head) specifying the nature of disability or incapacity ◦ Duration of disability or incapacity ◦ Number of hours per week the individual can participate in activities ◦ Any other limitations on participation and/or work activities Note: All verification/correspondence submitted must be original, unaltered documents and dated within the last 30 days. Stamped signatures by the physicians are Not accepted. 4. The Career Consultant will determine whether or not the participant is 100% medically deferred. The medical verification form and/or physician’s correspondence noted above must be reviewed for accuracy of completion and the possibility of fraud. 5. If a WTP participant cannot participate in the required hours of work activity due to a need to become or remain involved in outpatient mental health or substance abuse counseling or treatment, the participant may be exempted. The exemption from the work activity may be for up to 5 hours per week, not to exceed 100 hours per year. A participant may not be excused from a work activity unless a mental health or substance abuse professional, recognized by DCF certifies the treatment protocol and provides verification of attendance at the counseling or treatment sessions each week. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health (SAMH) form, CF-ES 2299 must be completed by a mental health or substance abuse professional. 6. If the WTP participant is not able to participate in core/core plus activities due to a need to take care of another family member, the participant may be exempted. The person that they are providing care for must be residing in the home of the participant and have the physician complete the Statement of Need for Care form, CF-ES 2094. Once the form has been completed and returned to the career consultant, the participant must be deferred and DCF must be notified. By submission of the form via fax, scan or by the participant at the DCF office, DCF will review the information and exempt the participant from the WT program. 6.1 For participants that are 100% medically deferred, the following steps must be followed: 1. The participant should be placed in the deferral status by opening the Alternative Screen in OSST and entering the information from the Medical Verification Form AWI WTP 2288 (a), WTP-001 Medical Verification Form-Page 3, and/or Physicians Correspondence. 2. The Career Consultant and participant are required to complete an Alternative Responsibility Plan together by utilizing the IRP wizard and case noting in the record that this is now an Alternative Plan because of the Medical Deferment (See WTP Assessments & Development of IRP/ARP Procedure and Work Instruction for specific OSST Data Entry instructions). 3. The participant should be counseled as to the possibility of applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or Supplemental Security Disability Income (SSDI); 4. Contact the participant on a monthly basis to update their medical and SSI status. 6.2 For participants that are NOT 100% medically deferred, the following items must be followed: 1. The participant should be placed in the deferral status by opening the Alternative Screen in OSST and entering the information from the Medical Verification Form-Page 3, and/or Physicians Correspondence (See section 6.3 below on how to enter the information step by step). 2. The Career Consultant and participant are required to complete an Alternative Responsibility Plan together by utilizing the IRP wizard and case noting in the record that this is now an Alternative Plan because of the Medical Deferment (See WTP Assessments & Development of IRP/ARP Procedure and Work Instruction for specific OSST Data Entry instructions). 3. Refer the participant to the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, if applicable, to be evaluated for the participant's ability to participate in activities. 4. Determine together the most appropriate activity for the participant to complete their required hours as per the hours on their medical verification form. The following activities must NOT be assigned to deferred participiants because they are time-limited: Vocational Training and Job Search/Job Readiness. 5. Provide and discuss the WTP-034 Medical Calendar and enter all medical and activity information. All information entered on the calendar will consist of steps from their ARP, assignments and appointments with career consultants and physicians. The medical calendar is to be reviewed with the participant by the 10th of every month and failing to provide the calendar without good cause would start the penalty process. Support Services The following support services are available for medically deferred participants as long as funds are available: Transportation - Gas Cards: 1-10 hours/week - $10 gas card - every two weeks 11-20 hours/week - $15 gas card - every two weeks OR $30.00.month ($20+$10) 21-34 hours/week - $20 gas card - every two weeks 35+ hours/week - $25 gas card - every two weeks Transportation - Bus Passes: 1-10 hours/week - 2 days bus pass 11-20 hours/week - 31 days bus pass 21-34 hours/week - 31 days bus pass 35+ hours/week - 31 days bus pass Child Care: A deferred participant may receive a minimum of 20 hours of child care as long as they are partially deferred and are participating 20+ hours a week in core and/or core plus activities. A) If a participant is deferred and participating in WT activities (core/core plus) or partial employment, please refer to the WTP Medical Incapacity and Deferral Work Instruction PO-075 for step by step instructions on how to assign participants to specific activities based upon their medical verification form. B) The completed medical verification forms must be placed and maintained in the participant’s hard copy file and updated on the OSST Alternative Screen for deferral entries. C) All participants with an existing medical verification form will be contacted by Workforce Alliance’s Center Staff and provided with a “Request for Medical Verification” form AWI-WTP 2288(a) and WTP001 Medical Verification Form- Page 3 for completion at a minimum of every 90 days while the participant is deferred. This will help to determine whether the participant’s deferral status needs to continue or come to an end. D) If it has been determined that a participant’s medical status is to continue, close out the old medical deferral in OSST and enter the updated/new medical deferral. This is to show a history of a participant’s medical deferral status. E) In the event that there is a deferred SSI/SSDI participant within their 48th month time limit, a hardship extension will be reviewed with the career consultant and the Registered Nurse/Medical Deferment Coordinator. This will help to make a professional decision as to whether the deferred participant may need to have an extension of their time limits. 6.3 DATA ENTRY REQUIRED IN OSST TO ENTER - NEW REFERRALS Deferrals are entered in the OSST system on the Alternative Plan Screen: Click the "Add" tab to begin entry of a deferral. A blank Deferral/FSET Good Cause Information Screen will appear. Follow the below steps 1 - 10. 1. Select one of the ten (10) deferral codes that populate the drop down box, except 'SSI-Applicant' . (If they are an SSI-Applicant, use either 'Medical Deferral' codes). 2. Answer, ‘Was the Medical Form CF-ES 2288 received”? If a “Medical Deferral” or “High Risk Pregnancy” was selected in Step 1, the response must be “yes”. Full participation is required until the signed verification form is received. 3. Was SSI/SSDI application filed? If the participant filed an SSI/SSDI application, the response must be ‘yes'. 4. Is participant enrolled in a SAMH outpatient treatment program? If the reason for deferral was “SAMH Deferral”, the response must be “yes”. 5. Begin Date – This is the date the participant returns verification to the career consultant and the date the deferral is effective. 6. Referral Date – This is the date the CF-ES 2288 or other verification document was signed by the physician or SAMH provider. If you are receiving the case for the first time, and notice that there is not a date entered in the “referral date” field, use the date entered in the “Begin Date” field. 7. Anticipated End Date – For a deferral that is less than 90 days, enter a date that is a week prior to the date the deferral is expected to end. If the deferral is expected to last longer than 90 days, enter a date that is 80 days from the Referral Date. By entering a date prior to the anticipated end date, the Anticipated End Date will generate an alert to remind the career consultant of a deferral that is on the verge of ending or needs an update of verification. The participant should be seen either for assignment to a countable activity, update their IRP/ARP or to receive a new CF-ES 2288 before their original deferral ends. If you are receiving the case for the first time, and notice that there is not a date entered in the anticipated end date field, determine when the participants’ Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: WTP Up-Front Diversion Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-019 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 07/28/2008 AUTHOR NAME: Carol McNamee LAST UPDATE DATE: 2008-06-25 11:24:31 BY: Carol McNamee AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WTP DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Procedure Changes DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 07/28/2008 Procedure Changes 1.0 PURPOSE: The purpose of this document is to provide procedures for the processing of an Up-Front Diversion request for potentially eligible Welfare Transition Program applicants in Region #21, Workforce Alliance, Inc., Palm Beach County, Florida. 2.0 APPLICATION: This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff and Career Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to the processing of the UpFront Diversion Request. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. AGAR - verify if they’re a protective payee AIID - verify their household composition/income, social security number & for each applicable child AOIE- Sanction History Screen in FLORIDA Applicant - an individual who has applied for but who has not yet been approved for TCA ARCA- Welfare Reform Cash Data (DCF Florida system screen) AWI-Agency Workforce Innovation CC-Career Consultant CLRC- case note screen in FLORIDA – DCF system DCF – Department of Children and Families FLORIDA – DCF system IQAA- Assistance Group Inquiry (DCF Florida system screen) IQCH-Cash Assistance Issuance History (DCF Florida system screen) OSST-One Stop Service Tracking RWB- Regional Workforce Board TANF - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families TCA - Temporary Cash Assistance TCC- Transitional Child Care Transitional - Employed; TANF case is closed due to earned income UFD- Up-Front Diversion WTP-Welfare Transition Program 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. AWI Final Guidance-Up-Front Diversion, http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/013UpFrontDiversionWTP.rtf Communication and Work Activity Referral (CF ES 2097), http://www.dcf.state.fl.us/publications/eforms/es2097.pdf Florida Statute Chapter 445.017, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC017.HTM&Title=->2005>Ch0445->Section%20017#0445.017 Florida Statutes, Chapter 445.031, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC031.HTM&Title=->2005>Ch0445->Section%20031#0445.031 Florida Statutes, Chapter 445.032, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC032.HTM&Title=->2005>Ch0445->Section%20032#0445.032 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. WTP Child Care Services Policy, PO-011, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-011,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=74 WTP Support Service Procedure, PO-002, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-002,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=202 WTP Support Services Work Instruction, PO-077, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-077,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=219 WTP Up-Front Diversion Policy # PO-018, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-018,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=214 WTP Work Registration Procedure, PO-038, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-038,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=106 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. Access to FLORIDA 2. Access to OSST 3. Diversion Services Emergency Criteria Form, AWI 0001, http://www.floridajobs.org/PDG/wt/Forms/rtf/WT_0001EmergCritForDivrsServ010207_010607.rtf 4. Up-Front Diversion Screening Form, AWI-WTP 2073, http://www.floridajobs.org/PDG/wt/Forms/rtf/WT_2073CombUpFrntRelScrng010207_010607.rtf 5. WTP-025 UFD Staff/Supervisor Review Form – available on the Forms Index 6.0 PROCEDURE: A. Up-Front Diversion Requirements and Process The WT Up-Front Diversion program is available only to applicants as an alternative to on-going Temporary Cash Assistance. The applicant begins the WT Work Registration process by attending the WTP orientation that includes information about the Up-Front Diversion program. If the applicant expresses an interest in the Up-Front Diversion program instead of on-going TCA, the applicant must be screened to determine whether (s)he meets the eligibility criteria for TCA and for Up-Front Diversion. UFD is a Once in a lifetime payment of up to $1000 per family. Note: Applicants that are in the process of going through Up-Front Diversion must continue to complete work registration requirements until their UFD payment is approved or denied. In the event that the UFD is denied, the applicant will continue to go through the work registration process and if eligible, be approved for cash assistance. 1. Career consultant will determine if the family applying for Up-front Diversion is currently sanctioned by reviewing the Alternative Plan screen in OSST and/or the AOIE screen in the FLORIDA system for active sanctions. Sanctioned families, including families receiving TCA through a Protective Payee, are not eligible for Up-Front Diversion. 2. The career consultant will review the following FLORIDA screens to determine if the applicant is potentially eligible for the TCA and UFD. Review the AIID to verify their household composition/income, social security number & for each applicable child Review the IQCH screen to ensure that the applicant hasn’t actually started receiving TCA. Review the AGAR to verify if they’re a protective payee Review the IQAA screen and determine whether the applicant is applying for TCA and the status of the application, i.e., pending, denied, closed, etc., etc. (Pending status would be acceptable.) and if they received UFD in the past. Review the ARCA screen to determine if the applicant hasn't already met the TCA lifetime limit of 48 months. (This applicant can’t apply if they have used all their lifetime limits, hence they are not potentially eligible for on-going TCA) Review the CLRC screen for additional comments regarding the TCA application. If the applicant is potentially eligible for TCA, the CC and the applicant will complete the Up-Front Diversion Screening Form, AWI WTP-2073. The date at the bottom of the completed Up-Front Diversion Screening Form, AWI WTP-2073, is the official date the Up-Front Diversion process begins. The CC will review the information with the applicant to ensure that the applicant is a good candidate for Up-Front Diversion, for example; Would the applicant be more appropriately served with diversion rather than cash assistance? Does the applicant have a history of retaining employment? If the emergency or unexpected situation is resolved, would the applicant become employed and/or remain employed? CC will verify the applicant's eligibility; document the applicant's emergency need; and their ability to meet their on-going monthly needs and document all information in a case note. 4. Enter the Up-Front Diversion service under the Skill Development screen with an Actual Start Date. 5. When the applicant has provided documentation of secured employment and has been determined eligible for diversion services, the appropriate supportive services should be provided to ensure the applicant begins work and retains the employment. 6. When the applicant has not secured employment, the applicant should be referred to employment opportunities in our resource rooms and complete a diligent job search (as part of the work registration process). 3. Note: Once an applicant has been approved for UFD and they are employed within 90 days after the UFD process started, their applicant case must change to a transitional case in OSST and be served transitional services if applicable. If the applicant is not employed within 90 days after the UFD process started, wait until 90 days and the close the applicant case in OSST. B. Support services may be provided so the applicant may: Participate in a diligent job search; Make contact with the employment opportunities provided the Workforce Alliance centers; Initiate the WT Work Registration process; and Be diverted from on-going cash assistance. Applicant support services are short-term benefits to assist the TCA applicant with completing the TCA application process and obtaining or retaining employment. Applicant support services are: Transportation assistance – (if requested): not to exceed 3 daily bus passes or a $20 gas card Child Care assistance - not exceed 30 days from the date the Up-front Diversion process officially started due to DCF's time standard to approve or deny a TCA application. Note: The 30 day child care referral is not to be in addition to the 20 days of child care that are provided to TCA applicants going through the Work Registration process. It only means for those applicants that are already receiving 20 days of child care and subsequently are found eligible for UFD, if requested, they may receive and addition 10 days of child care. C. Up-Front Diversion payment versus Up-Front Diversion as a Provision of Services An applicant who is being considered for Up-Front Diversion may or may not require a cash payment of up to $1000.00 to divert the family from receiving recurring TCA. (S)he may need a basic support services to secure employment, secure child support or overcome an emergency. The TCA applicant may be provided with applicant support services to assist the applicant with job search activities, obtaining employment, initiating the WT Work Registration process and/or retaining employment; The applicant may be provided with Up-Front diversion services as an alternative to TCA; Childcare for applicants of Up-Front Diversion should be provided for 30 days from the date the Up-Front Diversion process was officially started. If the applicant receives an Up-Front Diversion payment or provision of services, (s)he must secure employment to receive TCC. D. Approval of the Monetary Benefit and/or Provision of Services: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Complete the UFD Staff/Supervisor Review form, WTP-025 to ensure the accuracy and thorough completion of the Up-Front Diversion process. Complete the Up-Front Diversion Screening, AWI-WTP 2073 four page document (be sure to include the amount of the UFD payment on page 3 of 4). Retain a copy of the UFD paperwork in the hard file. Enter the outcome of the Up-Front Diversion payment under the Service Plan on the Skill Development screen in OSST. Enter a case note indicating the approval of the UFD payment. A copy of the -Front Diversion Screening, AWI-WTP 2073 is faxed to Mary Lints (DCF) – fax # (561) 837-5366. E. Denial of the Monetary Benefit and/or Provision of Services: Explain to the applicant the rationale why they didn’t meet the diversion eligibility. Retain a copy of the Up-Front Diversion Screening, AWI-WTP 2073, and their work registration paperwork in the applicant’s hard file. Instruct the applicant to follow through with the completion of the WTP Work Registration process. Enter a case note of the denial of the UFD payment. F. Data Entry in the OSST System Enter all supportive services provided under the Service Plan section on the Skill Development screen in OSST. Enter UFD in OSST under the Service Plan section on the Skill Development screen. Enter the Actual Start Date to indicate the date of the request for UFD. Update the UFD service if the payment request was approved or denied of a payment under the Service Plan section on the Skill Development screen in OSST. Close the UFD service in OSST by entering an Actual End Date when the service is approved or denied. If the applicant receives the service or benefit, the Reason for Outcome should be completed. In the service outcome field, the financial outcome must be entered. The two options available under the Financial Outcome section are, “was the applicant provided with RWB funded Up-Front Diversion as a service,” and “was the applicant provided with Up Front Diversion payment of up to $1000 through the Department of Children and Families on the electronic benefit card (EBT)?” A selection of yes or no must be selected for each question for the data to be saved. Enter a case note during each phase of the diversion process. A case note should be entered regarding the reason for qualification (emergency or unexpected need), the supervised job search, the completion of the agreement and Up-Front Diversion forms, as well as Up-Front Diversion payment amount and/or services rendered. 7.0 FLOWCHARTS: Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: WTP Relocation Assistance - Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-020 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 08/18/2008 AUTHOR NAME: Carol McNamee LAST UPDATE DATE: 2008-06-19 17:24:14 BY: Carol McNamee AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WTP DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 08/18/2008 Initial Issue 1.0 PURPOSE: This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff and Career Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to providing relocation assistance. 2.0 APPLICATION: This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff and Career Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to providing relocation assistance. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. Applicant - an individual who has applied for but who has not yet been approved for TCA AWI - Agency for Workforce Innovation CC - Career Consultant DCF - Department of Children and Families FLORIDA - Florida Online Recipient Integrated Data Access Mandatory - TANF case open; receiving TCA OSST - One-Stop System Tracking RFA - Request for Assistance TANF - Temporary Assistance to Needy Families TCA - Temporary Cash Assistance TCC - Transitional Child Care UFD - Up Front Diversion WTP - Welfare Transition Program 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. AWI Final Guidance - Domestic Violence http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/026% 20Domestic%20Violence.rtf 2. AWI Final Guidance - Relocation Assistance http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/023RelocationWTPrev062104.rtf 3. Florida Statute Chapter 445.021 http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC021.HTM&Title=->2005->Ch0445 ->Section%20021#0445.021 4. WTP Domestic Violence Policy PO-041 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/sop/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-041,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=215 5. WTP Domestic Violence Procedure PO-042 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/sop/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-042,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=109 6. WTP Relocation Assistance Policy PO-006 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/sop/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-006,% 20Issue=03&SopFormId=209 1. WTP Support Services Procedure PO-002 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-002,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=63 7. WTP Up Front Diversion Policy PO-018 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/sop/frmViewSopDoc.aspx? DocNo=PO-018,%20Issue=02&SopFormId=214 8. WTP Up Front Diversion Procedure PO-019 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/sop/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-019,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=85 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Access to FLORIDA System Access to OSST Diversion Services Emergency Criteria, AWI WTP-0001 Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, AWI WTP-2279 Relocation Assistance Program Transfer Letter, AWI WTP-2278 Relocation Budget Worksheet, AWI WTP-0002 TANF Eligibility Form for TANF funded Services, AWI WTP-0005(a) http://www.floridajobs.org/PDG/wt/Forms/doc/TANF_EligFormNew010207_010607.doc TANF Eligibility Form for TANF funded Services, AWI WTP-0005(b) (short version) http://www.floridajobs.org/PDG/wt/Forms/doc/TANF_EligFormSortVer010207_010607.doc Up Front Diversion/Relocation Screening Form, AWI WTP-2073 Verification of Employment, CF-ES 2620 Telephone Employment Verification form, WTP-024 All forms are available on the forms index (except #7 & 8) 6.0 PROCEDURE: The individual must be a mandatory participant of TCA or an applicant for TCA and meet all eligibility criteria for Up-Front Diversion. The family must demonstrate a need for relocation and a contributing factor to achieving self-sufficiency as a result of the relocation. Once this has been determined, the following procedures must be followed: A. Reviewing & Approving Relocation Requests; 1. Determine if the individual is receiving TCA, is a TCA-eligible applicant, or is an Up-Front Diversion applicant and all requirements for Diversion would likely be met. If the individual has met their TCA lifetime limit and is not approved for a hardship extension, they cannot receive Relocation Assistance. 2. Determine that there is sufficient information to ensure that relocation will assist the individual in attaining self-sufficiency. 3. Establish a written relocation plan, which includes: a. A relocation budget using Relocation Budget Worksheet, AWI WTP-0002. Budget should include relocation expenses (written estimates for relocation expenses and employment related costs) and provisions to prevent abuse/misuse of the relocation assistance payment. b. Documentation from the individual to ensure that relocation funds will be expended properly and that the relocation will take place. Refer to the Relocation Budget Worksheet for examples of documentation required. c. Assurance that the relocation will be successful without relying on TCA and be prepared to meet future expenses without relying on recurring TCA once the relocation has been approved. d. Provisions to protect the safety of victims of domestic violence and avoid provisions that would place him/her in anticipated danger. 4. Career Consultant should make contact with the receiving One Stop/Workforce Board (in or out of the state of Florida) and ensure that it has the capacity to provide needed services and employment opportunities. Information regarding the community must be captured on the Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, AWI WTP-2279. a. If in the state of Florida, go to http://www.floridajobs.org/onestop/onestopdir/index.htm and locate the region of relocation and counterparts in the local community. The Career Consultant advises the One Stop/Workforce Board of individual's case and applicable services needed. Details (contact's name, telephone number, One Stop location R/C/U, services to be provided) are documented in OSST case notes. b. If out of state, use directory assistance and/or the Internet to locate DCF and One-Stop counterparts in the local community. Career Consultant advises the One Stop/Workforce Board of individual's case and applicable services needed. Details (contact's name, telephone number, One Stop location R/C/U, services to be provided) are documented in OSST case notes. 5. The individual must relocate within 90 days of the receipt of relocation assistance. 6. Career Consultant conducts a phone survey 30 days after the participant has relocated. The survey is to verify the family has relocated, assess the success of the relocation and the adequacy of services being provided in the new area. All information from the survey must be documented in the case notes in OSST. B. TCA Applicant Procedures The TCA applicant must complete the Request for Assistance (RFA) and be determined potentially eligible for TCA. The Career Consultant is responsible for approving or denying the application for Relocation Assistance within ten (10) business days from the date of the RFA. 1. Initiate the WT work registration process. For the purposes of Relocation Assistance, the applicant should be engaged in the process of securing employment in their chosen relocation area (if employment is not already secured). 2. Complete the diversion process, see UFD Policy & Procedure. The career consultant will complete the UFD Pre-Screening Form to determine if the family has a situation that will be resolved by Relocation Assistance as a diversion instead of ongoing TCA. 3. The career consultant will counsel the applicant and discuss the feasibility of relocating to the chosen community. 4. Select the Skill Development screen in OSST and enter the Relocation Assistance service under the Service section. 5. The provider should be the career center where the relocation assistance request originated. 6. Enter an Actual Start Date and an Anticipated End Date of the Relocation Service ten (10) business days from the date of the RFA. 7. Enter a detailed case note. Non-Completion: If the applicant has not completed the process, or has not demonstrated a need for relocation and the ability to sustain residence in the community of relocation by the tenth (10th) business day: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The Relocation Assistance request should be denied, forwarded to DCF & indicated on Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, AWI WTP-2279 under Section B. The RFA will be processed by DCF as a request for ongoing TCA. The applicant must fully complete the work registration process for approval for ongoing TCA. Enter an End Date of the Relocation Assistance service in OSST and the outcome. Enter a detailed case note. Completion: If the applicant has completed the process, they will begin Relocation Assistance planning: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Once the applicant has secured employment in the community (s)he wants to relocate, the applicant must provide either the employment verification form and/or a written offer of employment on company letterhead indicating start date, salary, job title and number of weekly hours required to work must be submitted along with a contact person and phone number. Once verification of employment has been received by the CC, the CC must verify the employment with the employer upon receipt of the documentation. If the applicant has not secured employment in the chosen community, they should continue the job search process to secure employment. The applicant should begin the budgeting process & complete the Relocation Budget Worksheet, AWI-WTP- 002. The applicant should begin to secure a living space in the chosen community. If the applicant is a domestic violence victim, they may provide information for temporary residence in a protective shelter. Relocation applicants who are not moving due to domestic violence must secure independent housing. The applicant should begin to locate local support service agencies in the chosen community. The career consultant will verify that such support services are available by contacting the receiving community. The applicant will provide a forwarding address as well as a contact name and phone number for follow-up purposes. The career consultant will complete Section A of the Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, AWI WTP-2279. The applicant will complete the Budget Worksheet, AWI WTP-0002. The applicant is responsible for securing documentation for any projected amounts in the budget. The career consultant must review the budget, as well as accompanying documentation to support the relocation budget to ensure accuracy. Approval 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Provide the applicant/participant with a copy of the completed and signed Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, AWI-WTP 2279 (according to service being provided) to place in the drop box at the local DCF office: PLEASE NOTE: DCF does not need copies of the supporting documentation. DCF only needs a copy of the completed and signed approval form. Fax a copy of the appropriate approval form (completed and signed) to Mary Lints (DCF) – fax # (561) 837-5366. Enter an End Date of the Relocation Assistance service in OSST and the outcome. Enter a detailed case note. Provide the applicant with the Relocation Transfer Letter, AWI WTP-2278 to take to the receiving community and place a copy in the hard file. Career Consultant conducts a phone survey 30 days after the participant has relocated. The survey is to verify the family has relocated, assess the success of the relocation and the adequacy of services being provided in the new area. All information from the survey must be documented in the case notes in OSST. C. Mandatory Participant Procedures 1. The career consultant must initiate the screening process by using the Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, AWI WTP-2279 to determine if a situation exists that can be resolved by relocation instead of ongoing TCA. This determination must reflect if the relocation will enable the TCA recipient to obtain and/or retain employment. Because the family is currently receiving TCA, the ten (10) business day time standard does not apply. 2. The career consultant should complete Section A of the Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, 2279 & indicate that the individual is a TCA recipient by checking OSST and FLORIDA. Select the Skill Development screen in OSST and enter the Relocation Assistance service under the Service section. 4. The provider should be the career center where the relocation assistance request originated. 5. Enter an Actual Start Date of the Relocation Service. 3. 6. Enter a detailed case note. Non-Completion: If the recipient has not completed the process, or has not demonstrated a need for relocation and the ability to sustain residence in the community of relocation. Unless they are relocating due to domestic violence, the application should be denied & retained in the recipient’s hard file, because they are currently receiving TCA. DCF does not need to be notified of the denial 2. Enter an End Date of the Relocation Assistance service in OSST and the outcome. 3. Enter a detailed case note. 1. Completion: If the recipient’s application for relocation assistance has been approved, they must begin or complete the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Once the applicant has secured employment in the community (s)he wants to relocate, the applicant must provide either the employment verification form and/or a written offer of employment on company letterhead stating start date, salary, job title and number of weekly hours required to work must be submitted along with a contact person and phone number. Once verification of employment has been received by the CC, the CC must verify the employment with the employer upon receipt of the documentation. Begin the budgeting process & start to complete the Relocation Budget Worksheet, AWI WTP -0002. Ensure that the participant continues the job search process to secure employment in the area they would like to move to. Have the participant secure a living space in the area they are moving to. If relocating due to domestic violence, they may not be able to secure independent housing. However, they may provide information for temporary residence in a protective shelter or with a family member. Locate support service agencies (transportation & child care assistance) in the area of relocation. The career consultant and the recipient will: determine barriers to employment, demonstrate that relocating to the new area will increase the likelihood of obtaining employment, job retention & self-sufficiency. The career consultant must complete Section B of Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, AWI WTP-2279 Review the Relocation Budget Worksheet, AWI WTP-0002 for accuracy. Contact the receiving community to verify the community has support services. Approve or deny the application and indicate it on Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, AWI WTP-2279 under section B. Approved 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Provide the applicant/participant with a copy of the completed and signed Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, AWI-WTP 2279 (according to service being provided) & the Relocation Budget Worksheet, AWI WTP-0002 to place in the drop box at the local DCF office. PLEASE NOTE: DCF does not need copies of the supporting documentation. DCF only needs a copy of the completed and signed approval form. Retain the original documentation in the hard file. Fax a copy of the appropriate approval forms (completed and signed) to Mary Lints (DCF) – fax # (561) 837-5366. Provide the applicant with the Relocation Transfer Letter, AWI WTP-2278 to take to the receiving community and place a copy in the hard file. Once approved, they are ineligible to reapply for TCA in Florida for 6 months after the receipt of the payment. Enter an End Date of the Relocation Assistance service in OSST and the outcome. Enter a detailed case note. Career Consultant conducts a phone survey 30 days after the participant has relocated. The survey is to verify the family has relocated, assess the success of the relocation and the adequacy of services being provided in the new area. All information from the survey must be documented in the case notes in OSST. D. Right to Withdraw If the participant decides not to relocate, the career consultant will check the withdrawn category on the bottom portion of Section B of Relocation Assistance Program Checklist, AWI WTP-2279 & enter the date the participant withdrew the relocation request. The withdrawal request should be completed prior to the relocation assistance payment being applied to the EBT card & local TANF funds being expended by the vendors. The withdrawn paperwork must be forwarded to DCF & a copy retained in the hard file. E. Monitoring Relocation The family is required to relocate within ninety (90) days of receiving the Relocation Assistance funds. The definition of “receiving funds” is as follows: For the purpose of amounts placed on the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, the 90 days starts from the date the funds are applied to the card. The career consultant is required to monitor the family’s relocation status by conducting a phone survey 30 days after the participant has relocated. The survey is to verify the family has relocated, assess the success of the relocation and the adequacy of services being provided in the new area. All information from the survey must be documented in the case notes in OSST. F. Multiple Relocation Assistance Requests The number of times an eligible individual may apply for Relocation Assistance is limited to once per lifetime. The actual Relocation amount may not exceed $2,500. In a case of domestic violence, there is an exception to the once per lifetime rule. Any Relocation service amount that exceeds the $2,500 must be submitted for Board staff approval. G. Relocation & Support Services Child Care - Applicants = available for up to thirty (30) days for TCA applicants who are requesting a diversion/relocation assistance Child Care - Mandatory Participants = According to Florida Statute 455.021(c), individuals who relocate are eligible for TCC. Once the individual arrives in the receiving community and has requested services from the receiving One-Stop Career Center, (s)he may receive support services. Transportation, Clothing, etc - Applicants & Mandatory - should not be included as a separate voucher but to be included as part of the participants original request on the Relocation Budget Worksheet. H. Relocation & Domestic Violence The number of times a participant or family applies for Relocation Assistance is not limited. However, any subsequent relocation application must be evaluated to determine why the previous relocation was not successful and should be a factor in determining the appropriateness of future relocations. Relocation may be provided to a participant that is located in a domestic violence shelter. All efforts must be made to work in conjunction with the counselor of the domestic violence shelter to assist the individual. There is no Federal or State minimum required distance a relocation recipient must move when relocating due to domestic violence. The career consultant should contact the receiving community to verify the availability of shelter & protection to secure an emergency plan for victims of domestic violence. The career consultant should ensure the relocating family is not moving into a potentially dangerous situation. Verification that the relocating family will be able to receive supportive services assistance in the receiving community. Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. STATUS: WTP Assessments & Development of IRP/ARP Procedure RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-022 ISSUE NUMBER: 02 EFFECTIVE DATE: 09/03/2008 AUTHOR NAME: Carol McNamee TITLE: LAST UPDATE DATE: 2008-08-05 13:54:52 BY: Carol McNamee AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WTP DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 09/11/2007 Initial Issue 02 09/03/2008 Initial Issue 03 Initial Issue 1.0 PURPOSE: 1. To provide assistance and guidance to all Workforce Alliance staff on initiating assessments and providing formal assessments. This is to include the development the Individual Responsibility Plan and the Alternative Requirement Plan for all Welfare Transition Participants. 2.0 APPLICATION: This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff and Career Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to providing assessments, the development of the Individual Responsibility Plan and Alternative Requirement Plan. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Applicant - an individual who has applied for but who has not yet been approved for TCA ARP – Alternative Requirement Plan AWI - Agency Workforce Innovation CFR - Code of Federal Regulations IRP – Individual Responsibility Plan Mandatory - TANF case is still open; receiving TCA OSST - One Stop Service Tracking TANF - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families TCA - Temporary Cash Assistance WTP – Welfare Transition Program Initial Assessments – the completion of all Work Registration documents at Orientation and sitting with the participant for the first time with a career consultant. 12. Formal Assessments - provides the foundation for the development of an Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP) and builds on information discovered in the initial assessment through assessment tools, such as, TABE, SAGE, E-Choices etc. 13. Individual Responsibility Plan - includes linking participants with appropriate activities based on initial and formal means of assessing participant’s skills and abilities. It also includes tracking participant performance on an ongoing and consistent basis. 14. Alternative Requirement Plan - provides a vehicle for addressing the barriers to self-sufficiency while the participant is deferred from the work requirements within the Welfare Transition program. It is used for participants due to domestic violence, drug/alcohol addiction/counseling, medical problems, mental health or other problems that prevent them from participating. 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. Florida Statute Chapter 414.065 - Non Compliance with Work Requirements and ARPs http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0414/SEC065.HTM&Title=>2007->Ch0414->Section%20065#0414.065 2. Interim Final Regulations http://www.floridajobs.org/workforce/WT_FedLegis.html 3. Statutory Requirements – 45 CFR Part 261.11 http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgibin/get-cfr.cgi?TITLE=45&PART=261&SECTION=11&YEAR=1999&TYPE=TEXT 4. Statutory Requirements – 45 CFR Part 261.12 http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgibin/get-cfr.cgi?TITLE=45&PART=261&SECTION=12&YEAR=1999&TYPE=TEXT 5. Statutory Requirements – 45 CFR Part 261.13 http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgibin/get-cfr.cgi?TITLE=45&PART=261&SECTION=13&YEAR=1999&TYPE=TEXT 6. Statutory Requirements – 45 CFR Part 261.14 http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgibin/get-cfr.cgi?TITLE=45&PART=261&SECTION=14&YEAR=1999&TYPE=TEXT 7. TANF State Plan and TANF Work Verification Plan http://www.floridajobs.org/workforce/WT_StLegis.html 8. WTP Assessment & Development of IRP/ARP Policy PO-017, 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-017,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=206 WTP Assessment & Development of IRP/ARP Work Instruction, PO-076, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-076,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=208 WTP Domestic Violence Policy, PO-041, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-041,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=215 WTP Domestic Violence Procedure, PO-042, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-042,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=109 WTP Medical Incapacity & Deferral Policy, PO-003, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-003,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=211 WTP Medical Incapacity & Deferral Procedure, PO-013, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-013,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=217 WTP Medical Incapacity & Deferral Work Instruction, PO-075, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-076,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=208 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Access to the OSST System WTP-002 Alternative Requirement Plan WTP-009 Customer Goals WTP-010 Customer Registration/Initial Assessment form WTP-014 Gulfstream Goodwill Industries Referral 6.0 PROCEDURE: A. Initial assessments looks at issues related to finding employment, exploring marketable skills, and identify needs, barriers, strengths, weaknesses, motivation/commitment levels, work history, education, and career goals of the participant. 1. The career consultant will initiate an assessment for every applicant that becomes eligible for Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) within 30 days of a ‘new case’, ‘end applicant’, ‘reopen’, ‘transfer’ and ‘status change’ alert. 2. The documentation that will initiate an assessment with a participant is the required documents completed during the Work Registration/Orientation process. (See Section 5.0 -Materials Required above). 3. In the event that a participant does not complete an assessment for reasons beyond the career consultant’s or participant’s control, the initial assessment paperwork/documentation must be completed at the next appointment with assigned career consultant. B. Formal assessment tools – TABE, SAGE, E-Choices, etc. are used for assessing a participant’s skills, knowledge, interests and abilities. All formal assessments are completed for Mandatory participants only, exceptions are those participants that are currently employed and 100% medically deferred. If referring a mandatory participant to complete a formal assessment, the WTP-014 Gulfstream Goodwill Industries Referral form must be utilized. 2. In the event that a participant does not complete an assessment for reasons beyond the career consultant’s or participant’s control, assign the mandatory participant to complete a formal assessment, depending upon their employment and medical status. 3. Participant’s in a GED activity - Prior to entry into a GED activity, the participant must complete a state approved standardized tests, such as the Test for Adult Basic Education (TABE). The participant will be retested no less frequently than every five months and the scores compared and recorded in OSST as long as they remain in a GED activity. 1. C. An Individual Requirement Plan is a contract or agreement between the participant and the career consultant that outlines what the participant must do to secure employment or prepare for work that will lead to self-sufficiency through required participation through the WT Program. It should contain all the information obtained at and during the initial assessment with the participant (needs, barriers, goals, etc.) that is mutually agreed upon and followed up on a continuous basis between the career consultant and the participant. At the first appointment with the mandatory participant, the career consultant will: Update, revise or create the IRP as necessary utilizing all the assessments that were conducted, i.e. initial assessment documentation/paperwork and formal assessments. b. Discuss formal assessment results with participant c. Determine the most appropriate core/core plus activity(ies) for the participant based upon their IRP. d. Refer the participant to appropriate community resources as applicable. e. Enter a short or long term employment goal. Enter a scheduled or expected completion date of all steps to self-sufficiency, f. barriers and goals in the IRP. a. The IRP is initiated at the time of the Work Registration process that begins by having participant’s complete the “Customer Goals” worksheet, WTP 009 (part of work registration packet). 2. Once the participant’s case is open to TCA, the assigned career consultant will use the “Customer Goals” worksheet as a guide to begin completing the IRP in OSST before the participants next scheduled appointment. 1. D. Alternative Requirement Plan should be updated & revised as necessary when circumstances change for every deferred participant due to the following reasons: domestic violence, medical deferrals, substance/mental heath treatment, etc. The IRP should be updated to reflect the participant's ARP status by including steps needed to end their deferral status. Currently in OSST, there is not a physical place to enter an ARP, however, we capture an ARP through the current or to be developed IRP on a participant’s case. At any appointment with the mandatory participant, the career consultant will: Update, revise or create the ARP as necessary utilizing all the assessments that a. were conducted, i.e. initial assessment documentation/paperwork and formal assessments. Discuss formal assessment results with participant. b. Determine the most appropriate core/core plus activity(ies) for the participant, if c. applicable, based upon their medical documentation. Use the WTP-002 Alternative Responsibility form to capture the activities that the d. participant is engaged in other then core/core plus activities as indicated in the Assessment & Development of the IRP/ARP Policy, PO-017. For example: a Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: Legal Aid Society Referral Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-029 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 04/09/2007 AUTHOR NAME: Linda Karon LAST UPDATE DATE: 2007-04-03 10:30:14 BY: Linda Karon AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WTP DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 04/09/2007 Initial Issue 1.0 PURPOSE: 1. This document provides instructions for the referral of Region 21, Workforce Alliance, Inc., Palm Beach County, Florida, WTP Medically Deferred SSI/SSDI applicants to the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County for legal representation to obtain benefits. 2.0 APPLICATION: 1. This document applies to Region 21 DSP WTP Medical Deferral Career Consultants and Supervisors, Workforce Alliance Medical Reviewer and the staff and attorneys of the Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. WTP – Welfare Transition Program SSI – Supplemental Security Income SSDI – Social Security Disability Insurance DSP – Direct Service Provider SSA – Social Security Administration LAS - Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, Inc. 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. Medical Incapacity and Medical Deferral Policy - PO-003: http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO003,%20Issue=01&SopFormId=58 2. Medical Incapacity & Deferral Procedure - PO-013: http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-013,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=75 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. Internet and Intranet Access 2. Quality Documentation System Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: WTP Automobile Repairs' Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-037 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 03/17/2009 AUTHOR NAME: Carol McNamee LAST UPDATE DATE: 2008-10-07 08:16:14 BY: Carol McNamee AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WTP DOCUMENT TYPE: DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: DOCUMENT HISTORY EFFECTIVE ISSUE DATE 01 03/17/2009 PROCEDURE To clarify eligibility criteria and extend period of eligibility of benefits to 180 days DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE To clarify eligibility criteria and extend period of eligibility of benefits to 180 days 1.0 PURPOSE: The purpose of this document is to provide instructions for the processing of auto repair service requests on behalf of eligible Welfare Transition Program transitional participants in Region # 21, Workforce Alliance, Inc., Palm Beach County. 2.0 APPLICATION: This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff and Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to the issuance of auto repair services. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Mandatory - TANF case is still open; receiving TCA P.O. - Purchase Order TANF - Temporary Assistance to Needy Families TCA - Temporary Cash Assistance Transitional - Employed; TANF case closed due to earned income VIN - Vehicle Identification Number WTP - Welfare Transition Program 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. Florida Statute Chapter 445.025 - Other Support Services http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC025.HTM&Title=-%3e2007-% 3eCh0445-%3eSection%20025#0445.025 1. Florida Statute Chapter 445.031 - Transitional Transportation http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC031.HTM&Title=-%3e2007-% 3eCh0445-%3eSection%20031#0445.031 2. Florida Statute Chapter 559.904, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0559/SEC904.HTM&Title=->2007->Ch0559 ->Section%20904#0559.904 1. WTP Automobile Repair Services Policy, PO-009, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-009,% 20Issue=03&SopFormId=212 2. WTP Support Services' Policy, PO-001, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-001,% 20Issue=04&SopFormId=222 2. WTP Support Services' Procedures, PO-002 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/sop/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-002,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=202 3. WTP Support Services' Work Instruction, PO-077, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-077,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=219 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. 2. 3. 4. Access to OSST System Access to Gazelle System Access to Florida UNI-017 Auto Repairs Expense Check List – available on the Forms Index 6.0 PROCEDURE: Prior to gathering all documentation required for the auto repair expense to be approved: a. Determine if the WTP participant meets eligibility requirements for transitional status within the last 180 days of the mandatory case closure date. (For transitional eligibility determination, please refer to WTP Support Services Procedure, PO-002. b. Determine if the WTP Transitional participant is employed/maintaining employment for no less than 30 hours weekly. 1. Career Consultant begins the process with UNI-017 Auto repair checklist located in the WTP forms index. Each item on the checklist must be checked or enter n/a if the item is not applicable to the participant’s request. 2. Career Consultant must establish contact with the selected vendor and explain the PO voucher process by explaining to the vendor: a. They are to sign off on the original PO voucher b. Indicate the identifying vehicle ID # on the PO voucher (top left) and invoice. c. Attach the invoice and any relevant information pertaining to the vehicle d. Return original PO voucher to the administrative office. e. Explain to the vendor that the payment process may take up to 30 days after receipt of invoice and PO voucher. 3. Career Consultant then generates an auto repair Purchase Order (PO) from the Gazelle System. The purchase order must indicate: Automobile make, model and year Vehicle VIN number information must be printed on the PO voucher. (See Special Instructions Section of Gazelle PO) Note: Workforce Alliance will not reimburse an auto repair completed without advanced approval from the WT Program Director. 4. Career Consultant then updates then OSST information on the Skill Development screen under the Service Plan Section. 5. The following documentation must be obtained prior to signing the PO voucher: Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: WTP Work Registration Procedures STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-038 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 12/10/2007 AUTHOR NAME: Marie Monroe LAST UPDATE DATE: 2007-12-05 09:52:58 BY: Marie Monroe AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: Welfare Transition Program DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 02 12/10/2007 Initial Issue Procedure Updates 1.0 PURPOSE: 1. The purpose of this document is to provide "Local Procedural Guidelines" for the processing of the Welfare Transition program Work Registration Process either directly to or on behalf of TANF Applicants in Region 21, Workforce Alliance, Inc., Palm Beach County, Florida. 2.0 APPLICATION: 1. This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff, DSP Staff and Career Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to the Work Registration Process. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. WTP - Welfare Transition Program Mandatory - TANF case is still open; receiving TCA Transitional - Employed; TANF case is closed due to earned income Applicant - an individual who has applied for but who has not yet been approved for TCA TANF - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families TCA - Temporary Cash Assistance DSP - Direct Service Provider OSST - One Stop Service Tracking Gazelle - System used to issue support service vouchers UFD - Up-Front Diversion Family Central - agency that processes the child care referrals IRP - Individual Responsibility Plan EFM - Employ Florida Marketplace RFA - Request for Assistance UI - Unemployment Insurance DCF - Department of Children and Family Services FLORIDA - DCF Eligibility System 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. Florida Statutes: Chapter 414.095 Work Registration Florida Statutes: Chapter 414.024 Work Activities Florida Statutes: Chapter 445.025 Other Support Services, Florida Statutes: Chapter 445.031 Transitional Transportation 1. WTP Applicant Work Registration Policy, Document # PO-046 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP_test/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO -046,%20Issue=01&SopFormId=113 1. WTP Support Service Procedure, Document # PO-002 - http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP_test/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO -002,%20Issue=01&SopFormId=63 1. WTP Upfront Diversion Procedure, Document # PO-019 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP_test/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO -019,%20Issue=01&SopFormId=85 1. Welfare Transition Upfront Diversion #AWI FG 04-113 Guidance-Up-Front Diversion 1. WTP Relocation Assistance Policy, Document # PO-006 1. Welfare Transition Relocation Assistance #AWI FG 01-023 Guidance-Relocation Assistance 1. WTP Work Registration Flyer 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. 2. 3. 1. Access to the OSST System Access to DCF FLORIDA System Access to the Gazelle System Communication and Work Activity Referral (CF ES 2097) 2. Customer Work Registration forms as follows: Opportunities and Obligations Form, AWI-0008 Workforce Alliance Complaint and Grievance Procedures Form WTP-006 Workforce Alliance Release Agreement Form WTP-021 Transitional Services Reminder AWI WTP 0010 Customer Work Registration Agreement Form WTP-011 Workforce Alliance Work Registration Requirement WTP-029 Work Registration Checklist WTP-028 WTP-015 Initial Assessment Form WTP - 010 Customer Registration 6. Access to Employ Florida Marketplace (EFM) 6.0 PROCEDURE: A. Department of Children and Families (DCF): DCF Initiates the Communication and Work Activity Referral Form, CF-ES 2097, 5/2005 (See Attachment A) DCF will direct the applicant to report to the appropriate One Stop Career Center for orientation as noted on Workforce Alliance Flyer (See Attachment B) B. The Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) Applicant: Applicant brings form CF-ES 2097 to the specific Career Center to begin the work registration process by attending a WTP Work Registration Orientation. The applicant must be on time for the orientation or they will be rescheduled for another day and time within the allowable ten(10) working days. Unless required to work register themselves, friends or family members of the applicant are not permitted to accompany the applicant in the WTP Work Registration Orientation. Children are not permitted in the WTP Work Registration Orientation. If the applicant has no options for childcare, a childcare referral for ten working days (2 Weeks) may be issued. The applicant will meet with WTP Center Staff to obtain the childcare referral. WTP Center Staff will arrange an appointment with the Early Learning Coalition or its contractor (currently Family Central) to get the childcare started. C. The WTP Center Staff: WTP center staff will retain the applicant's Communication and Work Activity Referral Form until the Work Registration process has been completed. If an applicant shows for the WTP Work Registration Orientation without the Communication and Work Activity Referral Form, the applicant must be referred back to DCF to obtain another form. D. The WTP Work Registration: The WTP Work Registration Orientation must emphasize the benefits of gainful employment versus receiving on-going cash assistance. During the WTP Work Registration Orientation the applicants will receive assistance with completing the standard required forms: Initial Assessment/Customer Registration Forms Opportunities and Obligations Form, AWI-0008 Workforce Alliance Complaint and Grievance Procedures Form Workforce Alliance Release Agreement Form Transitional Services Reminder AWI-WTP 0010 Workforce Alliance Work Registration Requirement/Customer Work Registration Agreement Forms Once the Initial Assessment/Customer Registration form is completed, WTP Center Staff will enter the information in the One Stop Tracking System (OSST) as an applicant. Upon completion of all required forms, applicants will be assessed for possible Upfront Diversion or Relocation eligibility. Refer to SOP procedures for required forms and processes. E. Required Activities All applicants will be assigned activities to complete over the next ten (10 ) working days from the date of Orientation. Activities will include but are not limited to the following: One Workshop per week Job Search Assessments Initiate an Individual Responsibility Plan (IRP) or Alternative Responsibility Plan (ARP) Self Registration in Employ Florida Marketplace Other career center services as needed and assigned F. Transportation Assistance may be provided as needed in the form of the following: A one-day bus pass or $10.00 gas card G. All required documentation for the completed activities must be returned no later than the tenth working day from the date of WTP Work Registration Orientation. If the applicant exceeds the tenth working day, then applicant must start over with the WTP Work Registration process, with the exception that good cause exist. 1. Good cause exceptions are for WT applicants who are temporarily unable to complete the Work Registration process within the ten working days due to circumstances beyond their control. The applicant may be given up to an additional ten working day to complete the process. These circumstances may include: a) b) c) d) e) f) g) Temporary care for a disabled family member, who resides in the WTP applicant's household and when the need for care has been verified by a licensed physician and alternative care is not available. Need for Care form is required. Unexpected "Loss of Shelter" due to fire, flood, natural disaster. Supporting documentation is required. Eviction may also be considered; proper documentation such as an eviction notices must be presented. The WTP applicant was institutionalized and/or hospitalized. Example: in-patient treatment. The WTP applicant must submit documentation. Incarceration; supporting documentation is required. Death of an immediate family member; parents, grandparents, legal spouse, siblings, children. The WTP applicant must present supporting documentation such as an obituary. The maximum time allowed under this category for good cause is three (3) days. If the WTP applicant is unable to participate in work requirements due to domestic violence. H. Completion of the WTP Work Registration Process: Once the WTP Work Registration Activities have been completed, the applicant profile is updated in OSST under Skills Development. The original Communication and Work Activity Referral Form is signed. A copy is retained in the applicant's file. COASTAL CAREER CENTERS: Work Activity Referral Form is signed in RED ink and given to applicant to return to DCF. Note: It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that the signed Communication and Work Activity Referral for is returned to DCF. WEST CAREER CENTER: Work Activity Referral Form is signed and faxed/scanned directly to DCF. I. WTP Applicants to WTP Mandatory Participants: The WTP Unit (career center) waits for the new or reopen case alert for the mandatory participant. Upon receipt of the alert from DCF, the WTP Career Consultant will schedule an appointment for the participant to be assigned an appropriate countable activity. J. If the applicant does not complete the eligibility requirements by DCF or is determined ineligible 1. Allow 30 days after from the date of the completion of Welfare Transition Orientation and we have not received notice from the DCF. Review DCF mainframe screens IQAA, CLRC and in OSST case note the applicant's record of the outcome of the case. 2. Review and close all activities and support services. 3. Close the applicant case in OSST. 4. The DSP can shred the Work Registration paperwork. Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: WTP Work Penalties & Pre-Penalty Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-039 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 07/28/2008 AUTHOR NAME: Carol McNamee LAST UPDATE DATE: 2008-06-24 14:25:18 BY: Carol McNamee AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: Welfare Transition Program DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 07/28/2008 Initial Issue 1.0 PURPOSE: The purpose of this document is to provide "Local Procedure Guidelines" for the internal adoption, operations and management of the WTP Work Penalties & Pre-Penalty Counseling procedures as it pertains to Welfare Transition Program participants in Region #21, Workforce Alliance, Inc., Palm Beach County, Florida. 2.0 APPLICATION: This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff and Career Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to Work Penalties and PrePenalty Counseling procedures. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. AICI – Address screen in FLORIDA – DCF system ARP - Alternative Responsibility Plan CC – Career Consultant DCF - Department of Children and Families FLORIDA - Department of Children Eligibility computer system IRP - Individual Responsibility Plan OSST- One Stop Service Tracking System TCA - Temporary Cash Assistance TCC - Transitional Child Care WTP - Welfare Transition Program 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. AWI Final Guidance – Domestic Violence, http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/026 Domestic Violence.rtf 2. AWI Final Guidance – Transitional Child Care, http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/020transitionalchildcare.rtf 3. AWI Final Guidance - Work Penalty and Pre-Penalty Counseling, http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/037wrkpenaltyprepenaltywtrev012104.rtf 4. Florida Statute Chapter 414.065, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0414/SEC065.HTM&Title=->2005>Ch0414->Section%20065#0414.065 5. Florida Statute Chapter 445.032, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC032.HTM&Title=->2007>Ch0445->Section%20032#0445.032 6. WTP Assessment & Development of IRP/ARP Policy, PO-017, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-017,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=206 7. WTP Assessment & Development of IRP/ARP Procedure, PO-022, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-022,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=220 8. WTP Assessment & Development of IRP/ARP Work Instructions, PO-076, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-076,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=208 9. WTP Domestic Violence Policy PO-041, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-041,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=215 10. WTP Medical Incapacity and Deferral Policy, PO-003, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-003,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=211 11. WTP Medical Incapacity and Deferral Procedure PO-013, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-013,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=217 12. WTP Work Penalty and Pre-Penalty Policy, PO-036, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-036,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=103 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. Access to OSST 2. Access to FLORIDA 3. WTP-020 Pre-Penalty Post Sanction Counseling Checklist – available on the Forms Index 6.0 PROCEDURE: A. If a participant is non-compliant with a work requirement, the Individual Responsibility Plan and/or the Alternative Responsibility Plan: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. B. Initiate the Notice of Failure to Participate and Possible Sanction, form AWI WTP 2290 to the participant within two working days after the first failure. Select the Alternative Plan hyperlink in OSST and under the sanction section, select the add tab and the Pre-penalty screen will appear. Enter a brief statement explaining the failed requirement and the actual date of failure in the "failed to" field. Enter the date the participant failed. Once completed, OSST automatically generates a Notice of Failure to Participate and Possible Sanction. form, AWI WTP 2290. Print two copies of the Notice of Failure to Participate and Possible Sanction form, AWI WTP 2290. Mail the Notice of Failure to Participate and Possible Sanction form, AWI WTP 2290 to the participant within two working days after the first failure and maintain a copy in the hard file. Attempt verbal contact via phone and document the results of such attempt in the case notes in OSST. If the participant does not have a phone, or the number is disconnected, document in the case notes that an attempt was made. If the verbal attempt to contact the participant is not successful, allow the participant 10 calendar days after the "date mailed" on the 2290 to respond with a reason for non-compliance. Staff should create a "case to do alert" to signify the end of the ten (10) day pre-penalty process. If the verbal attempt to contact the participant is successful, advise the participant that a 2290 is in the process of being mailed due to failure to comply with work activities. If the verbal contact is successful and/or the participant responds prior to the 10 calendar days ending: Provide the Pre-Penalty Post Sanction Counseling checklist, WTP-020 and discuss each item with the participant. 2. Determine if "Good Cause" exists for the failure; clearly document the Good Cause in OSST case notes. (For specific examples of Good Cause reasons refer to WTP Work Penalties and Pre-penalty Counseling Policy, PO-036. 1. 3. 4. 5. Place any supporting documentation in the hard file. Assign the participant to an activity or other work requirement 35+ hours a week. Update the IRP/ARP accordingly with any changes to the goals, steps to self sufficiency and program requirements If good cause is determined: Select the Pre-Penalty Counseling hyperlink on the Alternative Plan screen in OSST. The hyperlink changes to the ‘Edit Pre-penalty Counseling’ screen. Select "Provided Good Cause" and enter the reason. The end date should be the same as the failure date. Enter a detailed case note indicating that good cause was provided and the reason it was provided. 6. Assign the participant to an activity or other work requirement 35+ hours a week. 7. Update the IRP/ARP accordingly with any changes to the goals, steps to self sufficiency and program requirements 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. If good cause is not determined but the participant agrees to demonstrate satisfactory compliance: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Provide the Pre-penalty and Post Sanction counseling checklist, WTP-020 and discuss each item with the participant. Determine the services the participant may need that would assist s(he) in becoming compliant. Assign the participant to an activity or other work requirement 35+ hours a week. Update the IRP/ARP accordingly with any changes to the goals, steps to self sufficiency and program requirements Select the Pre-Penalty Counseling hyperlink on the Alternative Plan screen in OSST. The hyperlink changes to the ‘Edit Pre-penalty Counseling’ screen. Select “Complied” and enter the reason. The end date should be the date the participant agreed to comply. Enter a detailed case note of the steps taken during counseling. NOTE: During the counseling session, the participant must be informed that a sanction will be requested if they are non-compliant again, without good cause, within 30 calendar days of their first failure. C. If the participant does not respond to the Notice of Failure to Participate and Possible Sanction, AWI WTP 2290 after allowing 10 calendar days: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. A sanction must be requested after allowing the 10 calendar days for the participant to respond. Select the Pre-Penalty Counseling hyperlink on the Alternative Plan screen in OSST. The hyperlink changes to the ‘Edit Pre-penalty Counseling’ screen. Select “Request Penalty” and enter the reason. The request date is the date the sanction is being requested. Request the appropriate level penalty based on non-compliance history in the Alternative Plan screen. Review Alternative Plan screen for previous sanctions by selecting the “show all” tab. Determine the latest sanction level Review if the latest sanction was lifted with ‘complied’ within the past six (6) months. If yes, request the next level sanction If no, request a level (1) sanction If the latest sanction (regardless of level) was lifted with ‘good cause’ within the past six (6) months, the sanction is voided as if it never happened and a level one (1) must be requested. Completing these steps will automatically generate a Notice of Failure to Demonstrate Satisfactory Compliance form, AWI WTP 2292. 8. Mail the Notice of Failure to Demonstrate Satisfactory Compliance, AWI WTP 2292 to the participant and retain a copy in the hard file. 9. Enter a detailed case note as to why the sanction was requested. D. Failure to Demonstrate Satisfactory Compliance Demonstrating satisfactory compliance is defined as having no more than one failure without good cause within a 30 calendar day period. It is extremely important that sanctions are not imposed if the participant has good cause, or demonstrates satisfactory compliance. If there is a second failure within the 30 day compliance period: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. E. If the participant is non-compliant again within 30 calendar days of the first failure, allow three working days after the date of the second failure for the participant to report good cause. Set a future case alert or “To Do” in OSST for three working days after the failure to be reminded of the impending sanction request. Document the second failure and date of the second failure in OSST in the alternative plan screen. If good cause is reported, update the case notes in OSST, and do not request a sanction (see section B above). If good cause is not reported within the three working days, a sanction must be requested in OSST under the Alternative Plan screen. The request date is the date the sanction is being requested. Select the Request Penalty hyperlink; the hyperlink changes to the Penalty Request Information screen. Request “Request Penalty” and the appropriate level penalty based on non-compliance history in the Alternative Plan screen. Review Alternative Plan screen for previous sanctions by selecting the “show all” tab. Determine the latest sanction level Review if the latest sanction was lifted with ‘complied’ within the past six (6) months. If yes, request the next level sanction If no, request a level (1) sanction If the latest sanction (regardless of level) was lifted with ‘good cause’ within the past six (6) months, the sanction is voided as if it never happened and a level one (1) must be requested. Enter the date the participant failed. Completing this procedure will automatically generate a Notice of Failure to Demonstrate Satisfactory Compliance form, AWI WTP 2292, Mail the Notice of Failure to Demonstrate Satisfactory Compliance, AWI WTP 2292 to the participant and retain a copy in the hard file. Enter a detailed case note as to why the sanction was requested. If the participant has obtained employment and this is a level one sanction request: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Advise the participant that they must contact the Department of Children and Families to report their employment. The CC must verify the employment and enter the information on the Skills Development screen in OSST. Select the Pre-penalty counseling hyperlink on the Alternative Plan screen in OSST The hyperlink changes to the ‘Edit the Sanction’ End the penalty by selecting “compliance” The lift date or end date is the date the participant agreed to comply with assignment or work requirement. Enter a detailed case note indicating the reason for the sanction lift, information on the employment and how the employment was verified. Assign the participant to an activity or other work requirement 35+ hours a week. Update the IRP/ARP accordingly with any changes to the goals, steps to self sufficiency and program requirements 10. If the participant does not have another failure without good cause within 30 calendar days from the date of the first failure, the sanction process ends. F. Sanctions and Transitional Benefits According to Florida Statute Chapter 445.032, former TCA recipients who leave cash assistance and have earned income due to employment may receive TCC to support job retention. . The participant must have secured employment prior to case closure by DCF. The participant’s case should have closed with earned income in conjunction with one of the following reasons: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. The earned income was budgeted by DCF, and the amount of earned income terminated recurring TCA; The participant requested and received Cash Assistance Severance Benefit; The participant “opted not to receive cash assistance”; The participant’s TCA time limit expired; or The participant began to receive or there was an increase in child support payments. This does not mean that the TCA case must be closed in the FLORIDA system with a specific reason code it only means the case closes for one of the above reasons and employment began prior to the TCA case being closed. The case must have closed for a reason other than a sanction. If the participant’s case is terminated by DCF, and the participant subsequently reports employment that started prior to case closure, the participant may be able to receive TCC. These situations should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Sanctioned participants are not eligible for transitional benefits such as transportation, education and training, or childcare during the sanction period. If a participant had a work sanction lifted, does not return to assistance and subsequently obtains or provides documentation of employment, s(he) should be provided with referrals to agencies for community assistance, including but not limited to the local (Palm Beach County) Early Learning Coalition’s provider. If the participant’s TCA did not terminate for one of the above reasons in conjunction with securing employment, s(he) is not eligible for transitional benefits and services, including a referral for TCC. G. Protective Payee If a sanctioned participant of the WT program has secured a protective payee to receive cash assistance for the family’s children and subsequently obtained employment, (s)he is not eligible for TCC. If the sanctioned participant reports the employment to the CC, (s)he should be advised to comply to lift the sanction. Individuals under a level two or three sanction must serve the penalty period prior to complying to lift the sanction, as well as receiving support services to comply to lift the sanction. H. Fair Hearings In the event of a Fair Hearing, the Hearing Officer may request specific information that is provided on the Notice of Failure to Participate and Possible Sanction (AWI WTP 2290) and the Failure to Demonstrate Satisfactory Compliance (AWI WTP 2292) forms. The documentation is for the hearing officer to: Ensure that the participant was given the correct information regarding the counseling time period. Advised of the failure, date of failure and the right to provide good cause. Contains the participant’s mailing address. Contains the contact information for the Career Consultant. Identifies and explains the sanction level. Preparing for a Fair Hearing: 1. Select the case notes hyperlink. 2. 3. Print any and all case notes that lead up to the reason why the hearing was requested. Print the system generated case note (labeled as ‘S’) of when the 2290 and/or the 2292 was entered on the Alternative Plan screen. The system note will give the participant’s address that is on the Case at a Glance screen as provided by the FLORIDA system, the user signed -in to OSST and the primary unit (Center Location). The system note will also provide the date and time the system generated the alert. NOTE: When generating any Pre-Penalty (2290) or Sanction forms (2292), the address on the forms for the participant is the address that is displayed from the Case-at-a-Glance screen in OSST. This address is a reflection as to what is displayed and reported to DCF by the participant on the AICI screen in FLORIDA. In the event that a participant has a temporary address or has notified DCF of a change in address, the address must be captured by selecting the “Edit” tab on the Case-at-a-glance screen under the Primary Contact Information section. Therefore, when generating these forms, it’s important to determine if there is another address for the participant other than what is displayed when pulling up the case in OSST. If there are two different addresses as indicated on the Case-at-a-glance and when the “Edit Tab’ is selected under the Primary Contact Information section on the Case-at-a-glance screen, mail the generated form to both addresses to ensure that the participant is in the process of being sanctioned. I. Saving the Generated Forms: All information must be retained according to law and guidance and subject to confidentiality laws. Workforce Alliance, Region #21 has opted to print the system notes and detailed personal case notes for the purpose of Fair Hearings to demonstrate the date, time and forms that were printed and provided to the participant (by mail, hand delivery, etc). All documentation and case information is subject to the rules of retaining case files. 7.0 FLOWCHARTS: N/A Attachment Files: View File Attachment: WT_SancFlowChart061406_070306.ppt, WT_SancFlowChart 061406 SIGNATURE PAGE DOCUMENT APPROVALS (ELECTRONIC DISTRIBUTION PROCESS) NAME DOCUMENT NO: PO-039 ISSUE NO: 01 TITLE SIGNATURE DATE APPROVED Carol McNamee Author Carol McNamee 06/24/08 Maryann Garrett Reviewer Maryann Garrett 06/24/08 Don Scantlan Administrator Don Scantlan 06/25/08 Elena Polanco Approver 1 Elena Polanco 06/25/08 Marta Roque Approver 2 Marta Roque 06/26/08 Maria Bobst Approver 3 Maria Bobst 07/02/08 Reggie OConnor NAME Kathryn Schmidt Approver 4 TITLE Reggie OConnor FINAL APPROVAL SIGNATURE President/CEO Kathryn Schmidt 07/03/08 DATE APPROVED 07/28/08 Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: WTP Domestic Violence Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-042 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 10/20/2008 AUTHOR NAME: Carol McNamee LAST UPDATE DATE: 2008-10-03 11:24:01 BY: Carol McNamee AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WTP DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 10/20/2008 Initial Issue 1.0 PURPOSE: The purpose of this document is to provide a procedure for the case management of a participant who may or may not be able to participate in required work activities due to domestic violence. 2.0 APPLICATION: 1. This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to providing assistance to participants who are victims of domestic violence. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. Applicant - an individual who has applied for but who has not yet been approved for TCA ARP - Alternative Requirement Plan CC - Career Consultant DCF – Department of Children and Families Domestic Violence - any assault, aggravated assault, aggravated battery, sexual assault, stalking, aggravated stalking, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or any criminal offense that results in the physical injury or death of one family or household member by another. DV - Domestic Violence FLORIDA - Florida Online Recipient Integrated Data Access (DCF system) IRP - Individual Responsibility Plan Mandatory - TANF case open; receiving TCA OSST - One Stop Tracking System TANF – Temporary Assistance for Needy Families TCA – Temporary Cash Assistance Transitional - Employed; case is closed due to earned income WTP - Welfare Transition Program 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. AWI Final Guidance - Domestic Violence, http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/026 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Domestic Violence.rtf Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence, http://www.fcadv.org/ Florida Statute Chapter 414.0252 (4), http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0414/SEC0252.HTM&Title=-%3e2005-% 3eCh0414-%3eSection%200252#0414.0252 Florida Statute Chapter 414.065 (4) (b) and (c), http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0414/SEC065.HTM&Title=-%3e2005-% 3eCh0414-%3eSection%20065#0414.065 Florida Statute - 414.095 (9)(g) and (14)(d), http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0414/SEC095.HTM&Title=-%3e2007-% 3eCh0414-%3eSection%20095#0414.095 Florida Statute - 414.157, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0414/SEC157.HTM&Title=-%3e2005-% 3eCh0414-%3eSection%20157#0414.157 7. Florida Statute Chapter 445.006 (6)(a)(5), http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC006.HTM&Title=-%3e2005-% 3eCh0445-%3eSection%20006#0445.006 Florida Statute - 445.021, http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC021.HTM&Title=-%3e2005-% 3eCh0445-%3eSection%20021#0445.021 Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 - Section 402 (a)(7), http://wdr.doleta.gov/readroom/legislation/pdf/104-193.pdf WTP Assessments & Development of the IRP/ARP Procedure, PO-022, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-022,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=220 WTP Domestic Violence Policy, PO-041, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-041,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=215 WTP Hardship Extension Procedure, PO-012, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-012,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=76 WTP Medical Incapacity and Deferrals Procedure, PO-013, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-013,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=217 WTP Medical Incapacity and Deferrals Work Instruction, PO-075, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-075,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=207 WTP Relocation Assistance Procedure, PO-020, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-020,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=86 WTP Support Services Procedure, PO-002, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-002,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=202 WTP Support Services Work Instruction, PO-077, http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-077,% 20Issue=01&SopFormId=219 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. Access to OSST 2. Access to FLORIDA 3. WTP-002 Alternative Requirement Plan 6.0 PROCEDURE: A. Identification and/or Disclosure of Domestic Violence Once a participant has disclosed that they are or have been a victim of domestic violence or that there is evidence to suggest that there is a presence of domestic violence at any point in time (i.e. during WTP orientation, workshops, one-on-one appointment, group appointments, etc) while they are an applicant, mandatory or transitional participant, the career consultant will need to address and inform the individual (s) of the following items: 1. 2. Assure the participant(s) that any information disclosed will remain confidential. When a DV case file is not under the direct control of staff, the case file will be secured in a separate locked file cabinet within each career center's locked file room. 3. Develop an IRP or ARP that includes a safety plan. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Information on local Domestic Violence Shelters Information regarding counseling services or any other resources Information on the local Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence telephone number Information on Relocation Services & Up Front Diversion Information on assessments and referrals to support services Note: Participants are encouraged to voluntarily disclose domestic violence information, but cannot be forced to disclose or accept services. CC's who have not been trained in Domestic Violence should not attempt to counsel victims. B. Confidentiality Batterers use a wide variety of information and methods to locate their current or former partners, therefore participant information must be protected. a. All information must be kept in a designated location in a separate designated file and not included in the participant's hard copy case file. Information includes, but is not limited to, current addresses, phone numbers, training sites, job placement sites, employment addresses, health providers, children's schools, next appointment date and time to see their assigned CC, etc. b. Confidential settings (separate room) should be used to provide privacy during screenings, interviews, and referrals to appropriate services. 1. Domestic Violence is confidential whether the information is provided by the victim or by a third party. 2. In the event the CC is contacted to release any information pertaining to the participant, please refer all questions to the WTP Program Director at Workforce Alliance. Note: The absence or proof of "official" verification that a participant is a victim of domestic violence, such as police intervention or protection orders, shall in no way indicate the absence of violence or the lack of credibility of the participant. An attestation by the participant is sufficient. C. Determination of Deferment and Possible Work Activities: 1. There are some domestic violence victims that are able to continue in assigned work activities with few, if any, restrictions or need for special services. Therefore, the CC and the participant will develop an IRP to assist the individual toward self-sufficiency and assign them to the most appropriate core/core plus activity(ies) 35+ hours a week. 2. In the event that the victim is not able to participate in required work activities due to physical or mental impairments related to the abuse, the CC will: a. Utilize the WTP-002 Alternative Requirement Plan form that serves as a time sheet to capture the activities the participant may be participating in at a community shelter, facility, etc. b. Defer the participant for domestic violence in OSST under the Alternative Plan screen. c. Develop an ARP with the participant or work in conjunction with a counselor from a shelter, facility, etc. The following activities may be incorporated as elements of the ARP: i. Work with Domestic Violence advocate/counselor ii. Participate in peer support groups iii. Apply for an injunction for protection or other legal assistance iv. Participate in case management activities at a victim services agency v. Attempt temporary or permanent relocation vi. Participate in parenting classes, life skills training, stress management, etc. vii. Participate in mental health counseling. Note: Currently in OSST, there is not a physical place to enter an ARP, however, we capture an ARP through the current or to be developed IRP on a participant’s case. D. Support Services 1. Support Services for participants who are able to participate in activities on a partial or full time basis. Transportation - Gas Cards: Transportation - Bus Passes 1-10 hours/week - $10 gas card 1-10 hours/week - 2 days bus pass 11-20 hours/week - $15 gas card 11-20 hours/week - 1 month bus pass 21-34 hours/week - $20 gas card 21-34 hours/week - 1 month bus pass 35+ hours/week - $25 gas card 35+ hours/week - 1 month bus pass Child Care Referral: Partially deferred - a minimum of 20 hours/week child care 2. Support Services for participants who are 100% deferred. Support services may be provided if there is a proven emergency and the participant is working with an advocate or agency. However, each situation would need to be reviewed on a case by case basis. The final approval to provide support services in these cases would rest with the WTP supervisor. If approved, the support services mentioned above would apply. E. Relocation Assistance • Relocation may be provided to a participant that is located in a domestic violence shelter. All efforts must be made to work in conjunction with the counselor of the domestic violence shelter to assist the individual. • There is no Federal or State minimum required distance a relocation recipient must move when relocating due to domestic violence. • The career consultant should contact the receiving community to verify the availability of shelter & protection to secure an emergency plan for victims of domestic violence. • The career consultant should ensure the relocating family is not moving into a potentially dangerous situation • Verification that the relocating family will be able to receive supportive services assistance in the receiving community. Note: Refer to WTP Relocation Assistance Procedure, PO-020 on how to process relocation assistance. F. Sanctions Victims of Domestic Violence are subject to pre-penalties and/or sanctions if they fail to follow their ARP and/or work activity requirements and did not provide good cause reasons. G. Hardships Victims may be granted a hardship extension if the effects of domestic violence delay, interrupt, or adversely affect the individual's participation in the WT program and ability to achieve selfsufficiency. H. Additional Information • Florida Domestic Violence Hotline = 1-800-500-1119 • Florida Domestic Violence Hotline TTY Number = 1-800-621-4202 • Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence Web Site = http://www.fcadv.org/ Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: WTP Child Care Services Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-043 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 09/11/2007 AUTHOR NAME: Carol McNamee LAST UPDATE DATE: 2007-07-12 10:15:53 BY: Carol McNamee AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WTP DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 02 09/11/2007 Initial Issue Initial Issue 1.0 PURPOSE: To provide guidance to staff on the issuance of Child Care and Transitional Child Care to participants of the Welfare Transition Program (WTP). Child Care shall be provided, if resources permit, to assist participants in satisfying their work activity requirements or alternative requirement plans. It may be available to applicants, mandatory and transitional participants based upon availability. PARTICIPANT PURPOSE SUPPORT SERVICE-Child Care WTP Applicants For those applicants attending the WTP Work Registration & Orientation. If requested: Child Care: 10 business days childcare referral WTP Mandatory Participants For individuals who are participating in an assigned activity Sanctioned Participants (Level 1): If requested, 10 business days childcare referral. Sanctioned Participants (Level 2,3): are not eligible for child care during their penalty period WTP Transitional Participants For those that are working and the case closes from TANF for over-income due to employment, or Cash Severance Relocation Participants For those participants who are approved for relocation assistance Up-Front Diversion Participants For the participant who have been approved for up-front diversion & is currently employed or seeking employment For the participants that are no longer employed, child care services are only available for 30 calendar days of notification to assigned career consultant. The codes in FLORIDA for earned income and cash severance are: 241, 242, 491, 492, 210; subject to income eligibility which is less than 200% of the current year federal poverty guidelines. See WTP SOP Relocation Assistance Policy & Procedure A 30 calendar day child care referral may be provided from the date the applicant is eligible for Up-Front Diversion See WTP SOP Up-Front Diversion Policy & Procedure for additional information 2.0 APPLICATION: This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff, Direct Service Provider Staff and Career Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to the issuance of child care support services of the Welfare Transition Program. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. TCC - Transitional Child Care UFD - Up Front Diversion TCA - Temporary Cash Assistance AWI - Agency for Workforce Innovation DSP - Direct Service Provider DCF - Department of Children and Family WTP - Welfare Transition Program Applicant - an individual who has applied for but who has not yet been approved for TCA Mandatory - TANF case open; receving TCA Transitional - Employed; case is closed due to earned income CC - Career Consultant F.S. - Florida Statute 4C Agency - Family Central OSST - One Stop Service Tracking 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: Final Guidance - Transitional Child Care, June 2004 http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/020transitionalchildcare.rtf Florida Statute 402.301 http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfmApp_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0402/SEC30 ->2005->Ch0402->Section%20301#0402.301 Florida Statute 445.023 http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfmApp_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC023 ->2005->Ch0445->Section%20023#0445.023 Florida Statute 445.032 http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfmApp_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC032.HTM&T ->2005->Ch0445->Section%20032#0445.032 AWI PowerPoint Presentation Post-Employment Support Services (see attachment) SAMPLE - Child Care Authorization Referral (see attachment) SAMPLE - Notice of Change in Child Care Status Form (see attachment) 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. 2. 3. 4. Child Care Application and Authorization, Form AWI 5002 - available on the Forms Index Notice of Change in Child Care Status, Form AWI 5235 - available on the Forms Index Access to OSST Access to FLORIDA 6.0 PROCEDURE: A. Applicant & Mandatory Child Care Eligibility • Applicants - Individuals that are participating in the 10 day WTP work registration/orientation process that have the required DCF Work Activity Overview Referral Form-CF 2097 • Mandatory - TCA recipients who are participating in an assigned activity. Note: Available for children under the age of 13 meeting the criteria established in section 402.3015, F. S B. Transitional Child Care Eligibility The participant must have secured employment prior to case closure by DCF. The participant's case should have closed with earned income in conjunction with one of the following reasons: - Individuals that are working and the case closes from TANF for over-income due to employment - Individuals that received Relocation Assistance or Cash Severance - Individuals that are no longer employed that are seeking employment - Individuals that were applicants of TCA who have been redirected from cash assistance through Up-Front Diversion - Individuals whose TCA time limit expired - Individuals that began to receive or there was an increase in child support payments. I This does not mean that the TCA case must be closed in the FLORIDA system with a specific reason code; it only means the case closes for one of the above reasons and employment began prior to the TCA case being closed. The case must have closed for a reason other than a sanction. Individuals who are receiving TCC, should be required, at minimum, to provide documentation of continued employment at the job follow-up intervals (30, 60, 90, 180 days) provided in OSST and for an additional year and a half while they are receiving child care, for a total of 2 years. Note: Available for children under the age of 13 meeting the criteria established in section 402.3015, F. S C. Child Care Authorizations/Referrals DSP's authorize child care and make referrals to Family Central. Be authorized for the number of hours assigned to the work, or other activity, including reasonable transportation time to and from the child care provider. Initial authorization should be for 10 business days for applicants. Mandatory participants receive a 3-month child care authorization; transitional participants receive a 6-month child care authorization and subsequent authorizations should be for six-month intervals up to two years within income eligibility guidelines. All authorizations/updates should be made using the Child Care Application and Authorization, Form AWI 5002. (see Sample form in the attachment on how to complete the authorization form). Updates also should be provided to families, child care providers, and other affected parties using the Notice of Change in Child Care Status, Form AWI-5235. (see Sample form in the attachment on how to complete the change in child care status form). Child care providers may be contacted by the DSP or Family Central Note: WT participants are not guaranteed or entitled to child care and may not be sanctioned for non -compliance if child care is not available, but they will continue to be subject to time limitations. D. Tracking Child Care & Notice of Change in Child Care Status Once the participant has received an on-going child care referral, (s)he must provide proof of continued eligibility. Applicants = Attendance at the WTP Work Registration/Orientation Mandatory = Completing 30+ hours of participation in an assigned activity Transitional = Pay stubs on a monthly basis or Job Search forms on a two-week basis (for those that lost employment, see Section E.) Notice of Change in Child Care Status If the individual fails to attend WTP Orientation, appointments, provide documentation, verify continued employment, complete 30+ hours a week, etc. the referral should be terminated utilizing the Notice of Change in Child Care Status, AWI 5235 & distributed to both Family Central and the participant. If the participant has demonstrated compliance or good cause before the Notice of Change in Child Care Status form has been distributed to Family Central for termination, the form may be voided. To void the form, indicate 'void' on the original form in the hard file and reopen the participant's child care. Enter a case note as to the reason for voiding the form and the compliance/good cause reason. E. Limitations & Loss of Employment for Transitional Participants Participants receiving TCC may lose employment for various reasons. If the participant loses employment, (s)he may continue to receive TCC for up to 30 calendar days to complete job search activities. The 30 calendar days begins the date the DSP was informed of the participant's loss of employment via DCF or the participant. Good cause reasons for loss of employment include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Position ends (i.e. job layoffs, business closure) Job requirements are illegal or against moral or religious beliefs of the participant Working conditions or job duties may be harmful to physical or mental health Sexual or racial discrimination or harassment on the job. Change in job requirements for which participants aren’t qualified Change in hours or locations that aren’t feasible due to childcare or transportation arrangements. Family or health problems requiring an extensive time off, which the parent is unable to arrange with the employer F. Data Entry Requirements in OSST WT Applicants, Mandatory or Transitional Participants – Child Care Support Services 1. Select "add" on the Skill Development screen under “Service” in OSST. 2. The provider for child care support services must be the 4C Agency (Family Central) that is providing the service located in the area of the career center. 3. For Applicant and Mandatory, select the service "Welfare Transition Child Care." For Transitional customers, select the service, "Transitional Child Care." 4. The “Service Recipients in House” section needs to be checked to indicate which child(ren) will be receiving child care services. If the child is over 13 years of age, a prompt will display indicating that the child(ren) is not eligible to receive child care. If a child's name is not displayed and they are currently in the household, (verify with DCF first), then the child will need to be added to the participant's case on the "case at a glance" screen in OSST. 5. The actual start date is the first date the participant was issued the child care referral form. • The anticipated end dates for child care are: ◦ Applicants = 10 business days for child care referral. ◦ Mandatory = 3 months after the start date. ◦ Transitional = 6 months after the start date 6. Once saved, OSST will generate the Child Care Application and Authorization Form (AWI 5002) for completion. 7. To terminate or update a child care service: enter the reason for service outcome, a detailed reason and the date the notice-date in child care status changed. Once saved, OSST will generate the Notice of Change in Child Care Status Form (AWI 5235) for completion. 8. If for some reason any of the above mentioned forms are not generated in OSST, select the "Searches" hyperlink and pull up your participant by selecting "Participant Search." Once the participant name is displayed, select the drop down box next to "mail merge options" that will display all OSST letters/forms that are generated by the system. Select the form you would like to complete and choose the first button next to where it states "have the server provide a mail merge document" and select continue. This will now pull the form that was to be generated along with all of the participant's information. 7.0 FLOWCHARTS: N/A Attachment Files: View File Attachment: PostEmploymentSupportServ050905.ppt, AWI PowerPoint Presentation Post-Employment Support Services Spring 2005 View File Attachment: SAMPLE Child Care Authorization.rtf, SAMPLE - Child Care Authorization Form View File Attachment: SAMPLE Notice of Change in Child Care Status.rtf, SAMPLE - Notice of Change in Child Care Status Form SIGNATURE PAGE DOCUMENT APPROVALS (ELECTRONIC DISTRIBUTION PROCESS) NAME DOCUMENT NO: PO-043 ISSUE NO: 01 TITLE SIGNATURE DATE APPROVED Carol McNamee Author Carol McNamee 07/12/07 Marie Monroe Reviewer Marie Monroe 07/17/07 Don Scantlan Administrator Don Scantlan 07/17/07 Sandy Simmons Approver 1 Sandy Simmons 09/11/07 Maryann Garrett Approver 2 Maryann Garrett 09/11/07 Ike Powell III Approver 3 Ike Powell III 09/11/07 NAME Kathryn Schmidt FINAL APPROVAL TITLE SIGNATURE President/CEO Kathryn Schmidt DATE APPROVED 09/11/07 Quality Documentation System Back to Main Menu This is a controlled document. Printed copies must have issue number verified prior to each use. This document begins with this page and ends with the signature page. TITLE: WTP Cash Assistance Severance Benefit Procedure STATUS: RELEASED DOCUMENT NUMBER: PO-045 ISSUE NUMBER: 01 EFFECTIVE DATE: 09/03/2008 AUTHOR NAME: Carol McNamee LAST UPDATE DATE: 2008-08-13 09:25:22 BY: Carol McNamee AREA OR PROGRAM AFFECTED: WTP DOCUMENT TYPE: PROCEDURE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE: Initial Issue DOCUMENT HISTORY ISSUE EFFECTIVE DATE DESCRIPTION OF CHANGE 01 09/03/2008 Initial Issue 1.0 PURPOSE: To provide employed recipients the option of choosing a one-time lump sum payment of $1,000 in lieu of ongoing cash assistance payments. The Cash Assistance Severance Benefit is an alternative to receiving TCA if a participant is working and has reported earned income. 2.0 APPLICATION: This document applies to all Workforce Alliance Staff and Career Center Staff who are responsible for the supervision and management of the Welfare Transition Program as it relates to the processing of the Cash Assistance Severance Benefit. 3.0 DEFINITIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 1. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. AWI-Agency Workforce Innovation CC-Career Consultant CLRC - case notes section in the FLORIDA DCF system DCF – Department of Children and Families FLORIDA - DCF system Mandatory - TANF case open; receiving TCA OSST-One Stop Service Tracking RFA - Request for Assistance RWB - Regional Workforce Board TANF - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families TCA - Temporary Cash Assistance Transitional - Employed; TANF case is closed due to earned income WTP - Welfare Transition Program 4.0 REFERENCE DOCUMENTS: 1. AWI Final Guidance, WTP Cash Assistance Severance Benefit http://www.floridajobs.org/pdg/guidancepapers/024% 20CashAssistanceSeveranceBenefWTPrev012104.rtf 2. Florida Statute Chapter 445.026 http://www.flsenate.gov/statutes/index.cfm? App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0445/SEC026.HTM&Title=->2007->Ch0445 ->Section%20026#0445.026 3. WTP Cash Assistance Severance Benefit Policy PO-062 http://sqlserver.pbcalliance.com/SOP/frmViewSopDoc.aspx?DocNo=PO-062,% 20Issue=02&SopFormId=216 5.0 MATERIALS REQUIRED: 1. AWI WTP 2286 Cash Assistance Severance Benefit 2. AWI WTP 0001 Diversion Services Emergency Criteria 3. AWI WTP 0008 Opportunities & Obligations All forms listed above are available via the Forms Index 6.0 PROCEDURE: A. Eligibility Requirements: An individual may choose to receive a one-time lump-sum payment of $1000 in lieu of ongoing cash assistance payments provided the individual meets the following criteria: Is employed and receiving earnings Has submitted documentation and earnings verification to the Department of Children and Families, which when budgeted, is not enough income to close the TCA Has received cash assistance for at least six consecutive months in the state of Florida since 10/1/96 Expects to remain employed for at least six months Chooses to receive a one-time lump-sum payment instead of ongoing monthly TCA Provides employment and earnings information to the center staff, so that the family’s eligibility for severance benefits can be evaluated; and Signs an agreement not to apply for or accept temporary cash assistance for six months after the receipt of the one-time payment unless an acceptable emergency is demonstrated to the center staff.. Note: Sanctioned individuals, who become employed, who comply to have the sanction lifted and are ineligible for on-going cash assistance due to their earned income, are not eligible for the cash severance payment. B. Processing Cash Assistance Severance Payment The participant reports employment to DCF and provides documentation to determine if TCA will be approved as “on-going”. 2. The participant provides the career consultant with the employment/earnings documentation to verify that (s)he is employed and is potentially eligible for the Cash Assistance Severance Benefit. The AFEI screen in the FLORIDA system verifies that the participant has reported the employment and income. The IQAA screen in the FLORIDA system verifies that the participant is eligible for on-going TCA. 1. 3. The participant reads and signs Section A of the Cash Assistance Severance Benefit form, AWI 2286 form. By signing Section A, the participant acknowledges: (s)he understands that (s)he may be eligible to receive the cash severance payment; (s)he has received six consecutive months of TCA in Florida since 10/01/96; (s)he cannot reapply for TCA for six months unless an acceptable emergency is demonstrated to the RWB; and (s)he may be eligible for transitional services including child care, Medicaid and food stamps if eligibility criteria for the individual programs are met. (s)he is employed and expects to remain employed for at least six months. 4. A copy of the form is faxed to Mary Lints (DCF) – fax # (561) 837-5366 requesting that Section C of the Cash Assistance Severance Benefit form be completed and the Cash Assistance Severance Payment be issued if appropriate. 5. The original Cash Assistance Severance Benefit form, AWI 2286 is retained in the case file and a copy is provided to the participant with instructions that they are to submit the AWI 2286 into the drop box at their local DCF office. PLEASE NOTE: DCF does not need copies of the supporting documentation. DCF only needs a copy of the completed and signed approval form. 6. Before the cash severance payment is issued, the DCF worker verifies on Section C of the Cash Assistance Severance Benefit form, AWI 2286 that the participant: Has received six consecutive months of TCA in Florida since 10/01/96 AND Is currently receiving TCA and his/her earnings and income are within the eligibility guidelines to remain eligible for on-going TCA; AND Has requested the Cash Assistance Severance Benefit prior to the last month of the established time limit or extension of time limit. 7. If DCF determines that the participant is not eligible for a cash severance payment, DCF informs the center staff and Workforce Alliance via e-mail and/or FLORIDA system that a cash assistance severance payment has been denied and identifies which criteria the participant fails to meet on the CLRC notes. Note: Participants must be eligible for on-going TCA for the month in which the payment is issued. The participant cannot receive the $1,000 cash severance payment if they have already received their last month (48th) of TCA. The request should not be backdated to a month that the participant was eligible for ongoing cash assistance. If the participant is no longer receiving TCA or eligible for TCA in the month of the payment request, even if they have met all of the other cash severance eligibility criteria, DCF will not authorize a cash severance payment, nor will they approve payment if the application has been backdated. C. Transitional Benefits Once a participant has been approved for Cash Severance and the closure alert has been received from DCF, the case will be moved from mandatory to transitional. The participant may be eligible to receive transitional benefits such as childcare for up to 2 years. Other transitional benefits may be available including transportation services, education/training and other support services depending upon eligibility and funding availability. Receipt of Medicaid and Food Stamp benefits are provided by DCF and are subject to eligibility requirements of those programs. D. Reapplying for TCA due to an Emergency 1. If the participant returns to DCF prior to the end of the six months and submits a Request For Assistance (RFA), DCF shall accept the RFA and refer the participant to Workforce Alliance center staff for a determination of whether the family has an acceptable emergency. The following are considered acceptable emergency situations: ■ Hospitalization or illness documented by a physician licensed under Florida Statute Chapter 458 or 459, resulting in a significant loss of income or loss of employment ■ Loss of earned income for reasons other than resignation without good cause or termination for cause; ■ Loss of housing; ■ Natural disaster (for example a flood or hurricane) responsible for destruction of the family's major property; ■ Other situations of similar nature affecting the individual's employment; ■ Domestic Violence. 2. The CC will evaluate whether the participant meets the emergency criteria listed on the Diversion Services Emergency Criteria form, AWI WTP-0001. If the participant meets the emergency