Q&As Related to the Independent Review of Applications

Attached are Questions and Answers related to the final rule published in the Federal Register on Feb. 6, 2014 titled, Independent Review of Applications Required by the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. Section 304 of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 requires local educational agencies (LEAs) that demonstrate high levels of, or a high risk for administrative error associated with certification, verification and other administrative processes to conduct an independent review of the initial eligibility determinations for free and reduced price school meal applications for accuracy prior to notifying households of eligibility. The final rule establishes the requirements related to this second review of applications process, which becomes effective in School Year (SY) 2014-2015. The attached Questions and Answers provide additional information on these requirements.

State agencies are reminded to distribute this memo to program operators immediately. School food authorities should contact their state agency for additional information. State agencies may direct any questions concerning this guidance to the appropriate FNS regional office.

Cynthia Long
Deputy Administrator
Child Nutrition Programs

Attachment

• Questions and Answers Related to the Independent Review of Applications