Finding Text
Finding #2025-1 Eligibility Determination Grantor: Department of Health and Human Services Federal Program Name: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Federal Assistance Listing: 93.568 Criteria - The eligibility requirements for the program are for households in which one or more individuals are receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, or certain needs-tested veteran’s benefits; or households with incomes which do not exceed the greater of 201% of the federal poverty guidelines, or 60% of the state median income. Amount of the household size and total gross income determines the benefit level (1-3) a household receives. Condition - The Organization paid benefits for an individual whose income was over the threshold of 125% of the federal poverty guidelines (level 1) but below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines (level 2). The income was documented but ultimately incorrectly calculated. Questioned Costs - $150 of benefits were paid and should not have been. Context - Of the 10,038 applicants, we examined 60 and determined that two individual’s income determination was incorrect. Effect - One individual received more benefits for which they were eligible for. Cause - A proper review of the eligibility requirements was not properly performed resulting in an error in the income calculation for the two individuals. Recommendation - Management should consider additional controls ensure a proper review of case files for any miscalculations or misclassification of applicants. Views of Responsible Officials and Planned Corrective Action - Management Concurs with the finding. See separate corrective action plan.