TANF-ACF-PI-2010-07 (Amending an approved Work Verification Plan (WVP))

TO:

States agencies administering the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program

SUBJECT:

Amending an approved Work Verification Plan (WVP)

REFERENCES:

45 CFR Part 261.63(c)

PURPOSE:

To provide additional guidance regarding when to amend a WVP

BACKGROUND: 

Section 261.63(c) requires a State to amend its WVP by the end of the quarter in which it modifies its verification procedures for work activities or its internal controls for ensuring a consistent measurement of the work participation rate. Some States submitted amended WVPs to implement certain aspects of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. This is necessary if the State modifies its verification procedures for TANF or SSP-MOE work activities or its internal controls, but not if it merely experienced an increase in the number of participants in an approved work activity. In the latter instance, an amended plan would not be required.

ACTION:

While this regulatory provision for amending WVPs is applicable whenever a State makes a change in the work activities it offers in accordance with 45 CFR 261.30, we want to clarify that an increase in the number of participants in a work activity already part of an approved WVP does not require an amendment. For example, if a State had an approved WVP with a subsidized public or private sector employment component which had not yet been implemented at the time of approval and it subsequently implemented the activity, thus resulting in an increase in the number of participants in the work activity, the State would not be required to submit an amended WVP. If a State is uncertain whether an amended WVP is required in a specific instance, the State should contact the Regional TANF Program Managers for guidance.

INQUIRIES:

Please direct any inquiries to the TANF Program Manager in your Region.

/s/
Earl S. Johnson
Director
Office of Family Assistance