Finding 583537 (2023-001)

Finding #2023-1 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 150% of the state’s established poverty level, or 60% of the state median income. Condition The Organization paid benefits for an individual whose income was over the threshold of 60% of the state median income. The income was documented but ultimately incorrectly calculated. Four other individuals basic benefit level were incorrectly classified as non-vulnerable instead of vulnerable and should have received $50 more in their basic benefit. Questioned Costs $1,252.63 of benefits were paid and should not have been. $200 of total benefits that were not paid to four individuals who were eligible for them. Context Of the 9,813 applicants, we examined 120 and determined that one individual was not eligible while another four applicants were eligible for additional benefits. Effect One individual received benefits for which they were not eligible for. Four individuals were eligible for additional benefits. Cause A proper review of the eligibility requirements was not properly performed resulting in an error in the income calculation for the one individual. The other four individuals were indicated as non-vulnerable instead of vulnerable. 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.