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53 1. Delays in processing on the part of the local department for any reason (agency delay); 2. An unforeseeable challenge that limited the client’s ability to pursue employment or accept an offer of employment (client delay); 3. Client needs additional time to complete their employment search or secure child care to support their employment (client delay).

Extension requests must include a reason from the drop-down menu in VaCMS. All client-related delays must be verified. Local agencies are responsible for requesting and reviewing appropriate documentation to determine whether the delay is valid.

Further details on extension reasons and acceptable forms of verification are provided below in Table 1. This list is not exhaustive but is intended to assist local departments in evaluating whether an extension is reasonable and whether the request for additional time is valid based on available documentation. NOTE: While agency delays can justify an extension (up to 90 days), it's important to note that the full extension period will not always be necessary. Localities should aim to act on the case(s) as promptly as possible once the issue is resolved.