Process

There are two options when the client contributes:

1. Client pays provider directly - after determining the amount the client will contribute, VR authorizes for the balance. The client pays the provider directly, and the provider bills VR for the remaining balance.
2. VR pays full amount to provider - VR authorizes for the entire amount and makes payment in full to the provider. Client sends their contribution to VR as a refund against the payment. See Refund Policy for how to process. The local office is to proceed with authorizing the full amount of the purchase to the vendor and is not to wait for confirmation that the contribution was received. 

The client is responsible for preparing and mailing his/her check, money order, or any other financial instrument made payable to Nebraska VR. Instruct the consumer that cash should never be mailed. Under no circumstances are VR staff to accept from the client cash, check or other financial instrument. The local office should provide the client with a stamped envelope, pre-addressed to the State Office, Attention: VR Fiscal Department. 

CLIENT CONTRIBUTION

DEFINITION

Client contribution is any amount of money the client pays towards the cost of the agreed upon good or service. 

POLICY

The client is an equal partner in determining the range of services needed to achieve the Individualized Plan for Employment goal. 

VR staff are responsible to ensure all rules and regulations are followed and assist the client in making informed choices regarding services, providers, and procurement method. 

Nebraska VR will not ask clients to contribute to the cost of services unless the cost will exceed the cost containment guidelines (Rule 72) or the client chooses a higher priced good or service. If the cost of the good or service exceeds Rule 72 limits, or the client chooses a higher priced good or service, the client is responsible for the increased cost as they are making an informed decision to purchase the higher cost good or service when the lower cost would meet their needs.