If your last CACFP Program Review was a few years ago, especially during the “COVID years,” you might be in for a surprise. Reviews during that time were often less thorough due to pandemic-related challenges.
Now, with a return to normal operations, state agencies are applying much stricter standards, leaving many participants with program review findings or being declared seriously deficient for the first time.
These changes underscore the growing importance of a robust financial management system—one that ensures your program stays compliant, organized, and ready to meet today’s rigorous review requirements.
How CACFP Program Reviews Have Evolved
In the past, CACFP reviews were often less rigorous, particularly during the pandemic. Many programs received “free passes” on findings due to operational constraints like remote work and staffing shortages. However, this flexibility has largely been phased out, and the reviews conducted today are far more comprehensive.
Key changes include:
- Thorough Financial Scrutiny: Programs are now required to demonstrate their financial viability through detailed financial documentation.
- No Room for Errors: Findings that might have been overlooked a few years ago—like minor miscalculations or insufficient receipts—are now flagged and addressed.
These heightened standards mean that proactive financial management is no longer optional—it’s essential.
Why Financial Management Matters More Than Ever
A fully functional financial management system is your best defense against the stricter standards in today’s CACFP program reviews. Taking proactive steps now can save you from the stress of scrambling to meet compliance requirements later.
How a Robust System Can Help
- Real-Time Expense Tracking
- Easily monitor program expenses and reimbursements, so you’re always up-to-date and organized.
- Compliance Made Simple
- Ensure all costs are allowable and properly documented, minimizing the risk of findings during a review.
- Ready for Review
- Generate review-ready reports, such as: monthly transaction ledgers for all expenses (not just CACFP), income statements and balance sheets.
Don’t Wait—Get Prepared Now
Right now, you have time to go back and get everything in order before your CACFP Program Review letter arrives—now is the time to act.
This critical window gives you the opportunity to ensure your financial documentation is accurate, complete, and review-ready. Don’t wait until your review letter arrives—taking action now can save you from unnecessary stress and often very costly findings. Many centers that have never faced findings requiring money to be recouped are now being forced to pay $10,000 or more—often for issues that could have been easily corrected before the CACFP Program Review.
Let us help you get prepared with our expert assistance today.
Check out our blog post on CACFP Accounting to learn more about setting up the right tools for success.
How We Can Help You Prepare For Your CACFP Program Review
At CACFP Solutions, we’ve helped programs just like yours navigate these changes with confidence. Here’s what we offer:
- Pre-Review Assessments: Identify potential issues before your official review.
- Financial Management System Setup: Stay on top of your program’s finances with this must-have resource.
- Ongoing Support: Whether you need bookkeeping, compliance advice, or help preparing documentation, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Don’t Let New Standards Catch You Off Guard in Your Next CACFP Program Review
The stakes for CACFP reviews have never been higher, but with the right tools and support, you can face them with confidence. Whether your last review was years ago or you’re expecting one soon, we’re here to help you navigate these changes and stay compliant.
Take the First Step Today!
Schedule a free consultation with us to discuss your needs and learn how we can help. Together, we’ll ensure your program is ready for anything.
Contact Us Now or call 512-657-8036 to get started!
This post was written with the help of cutting-edge AI.