dcl9011.htm

Tax Refund Offset Program transmission problems

May 18, 1990 DC-9011

TO ALL STATE IV-D DIRECTORS

Dear Colleague:

On a daily basis, the Office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE) receives data from State Child Support Agencies for processing through the Federal Parent Locator Service (FPLS), the Federal Tax Refund Offset Program and Project 1099. To accommodate the different stages of automation in States and to respond to the various needs of States, OCSE makes available several methods for exchanging data. These methods vary from the mailing of tapes to electronic transmittal of data using PC, Mitron, etc.

Experience has shown that there is no single best method for data transmission. However, as technology advances, States should be aware of various options and utilize whatever method best meets the specific application. Enclosed you will find a list of data transmission methods which are available for States to use and a brief discussion of the pros and cons of each method. In addition, the enclosure provides direction with respect to which method is most appropriate for different applications and volumes of data.

Irrespective of which method is used for data transmission, States still need to pay attention to quality control. Prior to transmission of data, the information should be reviewed of verify the appropriate data is being forwarded and that it meets there specifications established in instructions issued by OCSE. Unfortunately, we are still experiencing problems in quality control for States using Mitrons and sending tapes through the mail. Frequently, these problems result in States having to retransmit the data. Examples of problems include:

-States submitting wrong information including: incorrect data on tape, wrong tape files, incorrect record counts and incorrect header and trailer information, submitting FPLS data in Tax Offset format or vice versa and forgetting to put trailer labels on their tapes.

Each State is encouraged to review this information carefully, review your current method of data transmission, and analyze which method best meets your needs as you move into the future. In addition, States are encouraged to establish quality control procedures so that the transfer of information is not delayed.

If there are questions about the use to any these methods or problems your State is experiencing in data transmission, State personnel involved in data exchanges should contact the Special Collections Unit at (202) 252-5420 for information on Tax Offsetand the FPLS staff at (202) 252-5421 for FPLS information.

Sincerely yours,

Allie Page Matthews

Deputy Director

Enclosure