Prior to the 90 day IPE deadline:

1. Discuss the need for an IPE extension with the client. Explain exactly what caused the delay, obtain the client's perspective and determine what is needed to complete the mutually agreed upon plan and why.
2. Obtain agreement on the IPE extension and estimated completion date with the client. Outline the specific steps to be taken by VR and the client. The client needs to agree to the extension for the case to remain open.
3. Complete the IPE Extension screen in QE2 to request Office Director approval. 

• The VR Specialist must enter a task note justifying the rationale for not completing the IPE and what specific steps are planned to alleviate the situation. 
• The IPE Extension must be completed BEFORE the IPE is actually due (day 89 or less). Extensions completed prior to 90 days can be backdated by the OD to the date the extension was completed.
• If an extension is not completed before the 90th day, it is still required but the date approved by the OD can no longer be backdated. The actual date the OD approves the extension in QE2 will be recorded, and staff must enter a task note explaining why the extension was not completed prior to the 90th day.

4. The date the Office Director approves the extension in QE2 is the official approval date. Approving the extension will auto generate a task note in the case file. A task note will automatically be generated once the QE2 extension screen is completed and approved by the Office Director.
5. Once the IPE is extension is completed, every effort should be made to approve the IPE prior to the agreed upon extension date. 
6. If the extension date expires, an IPE can still be completed but it will require an Office Director approval. The case can also be closed, if needed.
7. In the rare occurrence when planning exceeds the maximum 180 days without a IPE being approved:

• The VR specialist must enter a task note justifying the rationale for not completing the IPE within the 180 days and what specific steps are planned to alleviate the situation.
• An automated e-mail will be generated to the Director of VR and the Office Director for review.
• All IPE's completed after 180 days require Office Director approval.

If staff  are unable to complete the Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) determination within 90 days, an IPE Extension is required to be completed in QE2 prior to the 90 day IPE deadline and Office Director approval is required.

• The IPE Extension must be completed BEFORE the actual due date (day 89 or less).
• Only one extension is permitted, per case for a maximum total of 180 days (six months). Whether the extension is 90 additional days or less than 90 days, only one extension is allowed. 

In rare occurrences when the eligibility determination exceeds the maximum 180 days without approval:

• The VR Specialist must enter a task note justifying the rationale for not completing the eligibility within 180 days and the specific steps to be taken by VR and the client to alleviate the situation
• All IPE's completed after 180 days require Office Director approval

If operating under an order of selection, the IPE is developed within 90 days from the date VR is able to provide services to that individual.