1. (a)

   1. (1) This category includes academic and other specialized training that will prepare an individual with a disability to be employed.
   2. (2) This training may include correspondence and online study.

2. (b) The correspondence/online method may be used if:

   1. (1) Training cannot be arranged by any other method;
   2. (2) The individual needs preliminary training, which may be obtained more practically and efficiently by correspondence, prior to entering another training method; or
   3. (3) Living arrangements cannot be made to secure training by any other method.

3. (c) The following criteria will be used for those individuals considered for correspondence/online training:

   1. (1) An intense interest in the chosen work field;
   2. (2) Standardized tests or past academic performance indicate the individual may complete the training;
   3. (3) Some previous knowledge of, or experience in, the chosen field;
   4. (4) Adequate time to devote to course study; and
   5. (5) The labor market reflects employment possibilities upon completion of the training.

4. (d)

   1. (1) For college correspondence training, fees will be determined by the number of credit hours and the institution's rate.
   2. (2) The published fees of the selected college will be the maximum paid by Arkansas Rehabilitation Services.
   3. (3) Fees will be paid when the college submits a bill.

5. (e)

   1. (1) In paying for correspondence/online courses other than college, the total cost of the training will be divided by the number of lessons or the parameters set out by the course work.
   2. (2) Counselors are responsible for negotiating with the vendors to ensure agreement with this payment plan.
   3. (3) If correspondence training is selected, the counselor must obtain the manager’s approval.

6. (f) Procedures — Miscellaneous training.

   1. (1) Documentation of the action to be taken will be made in the case note.
   2. (2) Refer to the Arkansas Rehabilitation Services vendor list or secure W-9 from new vendor.
   3. (3) The case management system will generate the status move after required data is keyed for Status 18.
   4. (4) Key required information into the case management system for Arkansas Rehabilitation Services purchase authorization.

   5. (5)

      1. (A) When billing statement is received, verify the individual received the service.
      2. (B) Document in the ECF.

   6. (6)

      1. (A) Key required information into the case management system for payment.
      2. (B) Support staff will be responsible for making payments.
      3. (C) Payment will not be processed without an attached bill from the vendor.
   7. (7) Refer to out-of-state policy limitations, if necessary.

   8. (8)

      1. (A) The training vendor will provide a progress report to the counselor with appropriate billing forms.
      2. (B) The counselor will not process payment for the training without proper progress reports.
   9. (9) Complete annual review documenting any changes to the IPE.
   10. (10) Update the RS16 Financial Resources Form at annual review.

Codification Notes: “ECF” means electronic case file. "IPE" means individualized plan for employment.