Finding Text
2022-003 Eligibility Prior Year Finding Number: N/A Repeat Finding Since: N/A Type of Finding: Internal Control Over Compliance and Compliance Severity of Deficiency: Significant Deficiency and Other Matter Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Program: 93.558 Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Award Number and Year: 2201MNTANF; 2022 Pass-Through Agency: Minnesota Department of Human Services Criteria: Title 42 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations ? 602(a)(1)(B)(iii) requires each state to create a written document that sets forth the objective criteria for the delivery of benefits and the determination of eligibility. The Minnesota Department of Human Services? State Plan for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Minn. Stat. ? 256J.10 establish the general eligibility requirements for TANF benefits. Condition: The Minnesota Department of Human Services maintains the computer system, MAXIS, which is used by MNPrairie to support the eligibility determination process. In the case files reviewed for eligibility, not all documentation was available, updated, or input correctly to support participant eligibility. The following exceptions were noted in the sample of 40 MAXIS case files tested: ? One case file viewed included child support income which was not supported by documentation on file. ? Four case files viewed either did not have updated asset amounts or the asset amounts listed were not supported by documentation on file. Questioned Costs: None. Context: The State of Minnesota and MNPrairie split the eligibility determination process. Pursuant to Minnesota statutes, MNPrairie performs the ?intake function? needed for this program, while the State maintains the MAXIS system, which supports the eligibility determination process. Participants receive benefit payments from the State. The sample size was based on guidance from chapter 11 of the AICPA Audit Guide, Government Auditing Standards and Single Audits. Effect: The lack of updated information in MAXIS documenting verification of key eligibility-determining factors increases the risk that a program participant will receive benefits when they are not eligible. Cause: Program personnel entering case data into MAXIS did not ensure all required information was input correctly or was supported and that all required information was obtained and/or retained. Recommendation: We recommend MNPrairie implement additional procedures to provide reasonable assurance that all necessary documentation to support eligibility determinations exists, the information is properly input or updated in MAXIS, and issues are followed up on in a timely manner. In addition, consideration should be given to providing further training to program personnel. View of Responsible Official: Acknowledge.