It’s almost that time of year again – CACFP renewal season! During this period, independent centers and sponsoring organizations must renew their CACFP application with the state. Here’s what you must know to make your renewal process a breeze!
Your CACFP Application Renewal Guide
As a CACFP Support Team with over 30 years in the industry, we have extensive experience with CACFP renewals. We understand the intricacies and potential challenges of the process, which is why we’ve compiled these tips to help you through it smoothly!
Our expertise is your gain, and we are here to ensure your renewal is successful and stress-free.
So- let’s dive into the tips!
Key Tips for CACFP Application Renewal Success
1. Stay Alert for Notifications
Once it’s time to renew your application, you will receive an email notification from your state agency. This email will provide essential information about the renewal process, including deadlines and any new requirements.
Additionally, you should see the renewal notice when you log in to your state agency’s website. For those in Texas, the renewal window typically opens on July 1st. Mark your calendar and set reminders to check your email and the Squaremeals website.
2. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
To ensure a smooth process, we recommend submitting your renewal application in July. Early submission helps avoid last-minute scrambling. In Texas, renewals are generally due between August 15th and September 1st. Additionally, early submission gives you time to address any potential issues that might arise.
3. Evaluate Your CACFP Budget
Are Budget Changes Needed?
It’s time to evaluate your CACFP budget. Review your total operating costs, admin costs, and food & supplies costs to ensure the total exceeds your annual reimbursement. Shortages or significant overages could indicate that you need to amend your budget to more accurately reflect your program costs.
Need help with this? CACFP Solutions is here to assist! Contact us today for expert guidance.
No Changes Needed? Just Recertify!
Even if you aren’t changing your budget numbers, TX-UNPS will require you to “recertify” your budget.
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- Click “modify” next to your budget detail.
- Then click “anticipated annual reimbursement.”
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- Scroll to the bottom and click “save.” This “recertifies” your reimbursement amount.
Be sure to save your budget page.
Need help? CACFP Solutions is here to assist! Contact us today for expert guidance!
4. Review Your Site Application
Meal Times
As you submit your renewal application, review your meal times. Ensure they accurately reflect when you are serving meals. Adjust them if necessary to comply with CACFP guidelines and optimize your meal service schedule.
Update Your Site License Details
Ensure your site license number,license expiration date, and open/close times are updated correctly on your renewal application. Keeping this information accurate is crucial for compliance and smooth operation of your CACFP services.
5. Include All Checklist Documents
The state agency will likely require updated program forms as part of your renewal application.
Examples include:
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- certificate of authority
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- governing body awareness
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- legal documents
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- compensation policy
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- performance bond
- subcontractor agreements.
Look in your CACFP Checklist summary to see which forms are required. Be sure to submit all required documents to ensure your application is complete.
6. Review Application Packet & Submit for Approval
Review your application documents on the state website to ensure you’ve completed everything. Generally, there should be a checkmark that indicates when you’ve finished a section. Thoroughly review your application packet before submitting it for approval to avoid any omissions or errors. Use the red “submit for approval” button when you are ready.
7. Stay Vigilant Regarding Communications with State Agency
It is important to remain vigilant about communications from your state agency. If a correction is needed for your renewal, you will receive an email notification detailing the required changes.
If you haven’t heard back in a while, you can email your state agency for an update. For Texas participants, the email address is CACFP.BOPS@TexasAgriculture.gov.
Make sure to address any corrections promptly. You can also find details about the correction by opening your application packet on TX-UNPS.
For more resources, please check out the following links:
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- USDA
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- TX-UNPS
We’re Here to Help
If you need assistance with your CACFP renewal application, don’t hesitate to reach out. Renewing your application can seem daunting, but following these guidelines will streamline the process and ensure success. Our team is here to help with any questions or concerns you might have.
Happy renewing!