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infant, toddler, pre-school, and school-age.

Quality level. Describe: The Lead Agency sets differentiates payment rates for providers who are accredited or participation with Step Up to Quality (Nebraska's Quality Rating Improvement System).

Other. Describe:

i) Describe any additional facts that the Lead Agency considered in determining its payment rates to ensure equal access. Check all that apply and describe: Payment rates are set at the 75th percentile benchmark or higher of the most recent MRS. Describe:

Based on the approved alternative methodology, payments rates ensure equal access. Describe:

Feedback from parents, including parent surveys or parental complaints. Describe:

Other. Describe:

4.5 Payment Practices and the Timeliness of Payments

Lead Agencies are required to demonstrate that they have established payment practices applicable to all CCDF child care providers that include ensuring the timeliness of payments by either (1) paying prospectively prior to the delivery of services or (2) paying within no more than Nebraska Page 123 of 314