Finding Text
Condition: During our testing of program eligibility for the TANF program, we tested a nonstatistical sample of 40 participant files. For two participants, eligibility determinations could not be located. Additionally, for seven participants, eligibility determinations provided were either not dated or dated after fiscal year end (December 31, 2025). As a result, we were unable to determine whether eligibility had been properly documented prior to the participant beginning the program, as required. Criteria: Under 2 CFR §200.300(b), non Federal entities must comply with federal statutes, regulations, and the terms and conditions of federal awards. Eligibility is a compliance requirement identified in the Compliance Supplement for the TANF program. Additionally, 2 CFR §200.303 requires non Federal entities to establish and maintain effective internal control over federal awards to provide reasonable assurance that the entity is administering federal awards in compliance with program requirements. Adequate documentation supporting participant eligibility must be retained in accordance with 2 CFR §200.334. Cause: The finding resulted from a lack of formal controls over the review, documentation, and retention of TANF eligibility determinations. Specifically, there were no documented procedures to ensure eligibility determinations were completed, dated timely, and retained prior to participant enrollment. Effect: Because eligibility documentation was missing or not timely for nine participants, we were unable to verify compliance with TANF eligibility requirements. This resulted in questioned costs of $4,474 related to benefits provided to participants whose eligibility could not be substantiated. Questioned Costs: $4,474 Recommendation: We recommend that management establish formal procedures to ensure TANF eligibility determinations are completed, reviewed, and dated prior to participant enrollment and that all supporting documentation is retained in accordance with federal requirements. Additionally, management should consider implementing a documented review process to verify eligibility files are complete before benefits are provided.