VOE
Verification of Eligibility (VOE) Overview
By law, FPPA is required to complete an annual audit of our disability and survivor benefit recipients. This process, called Verification of Eligibility (VOE), helps verify that payees remain eligible for their benefit. Typically, participants are required to submit a few forms regarding their finances and any applicable life changes in the previous year. Certain supporting documents, like tax returns, may also be required.
Beginning in 2025, the process will begin in May and continue through October. Members may submit their documentation through the Member Account Portal, secure email attachment, or via US mail. It is crucial that participants submit the Verification of Eligibility Affidavit and any required documentation by the deadline to avoid suspension of benefits.
If these documents are not completed and returned to FPPA by the deadline, then disability benefits will be suspended.
The annual VOE process begins in May
Key Dates
- Early May: VOE materials will go out. Instructions will arrive by email or US mail depending on Members' communication preference (you may adjust this preference in the Member Account Portal)
- May 31: If you haven’t received instructions by this time, please contact us
- October 31: Deadline to submit all required documentation
Important notes
- VOE forms require an original signature or a certified digital signature through Adobe
- FPPA conducts random audits of the information you provide. If selected, you may be required to provide your tax return documentation, or complete the IRS Form 4506-T if you are not required to file a tax return. You do not have to provide your tax return documentation or complete the IRS Form 4506-T unless directed by FPPA
Update your information
- Go to MAP to update your address and email online; or
- Download the Change of Address Form (this form can be used to update both your mailing address and email address)
VOE Forms
You may be asked to provide additional tax documentation to verify the information on your VOE form. If tax return information is requested and you are NOT required to file taxes for last year, complete boxes 1-4 as applicable, sign and date the form and return it to the IRS. Once you receive the tax transcript from the IRS, send a copy to FPPA.
Frequently Asked Questions About the VOE Process:
Click on a question for the answer to drop down.
Yes. Even if no information has changed, the VOE form will need to be completed. A copy of your Federal Tax Return is not required at this time.
Yes. All questions should be answered completely and accurately.
Please insert Not Applicable (NA) in that field. An FPPA employee may contact you by phone or in writing to verify or expand on your information. You will not be considered in compliance until FPPA receives all information being requested.
Yes. FPPA conducts random audits of the information you provide. FPPA has legal authority to request tax documents in order to help make this eligibility determination. In addition, if a disability retiree has filed a joint tax return, we are legally able to request the W-2s and 1099s from the disability retiree’s spouse. This is necessary to verify that all of the income listed on the Federal Tax Return is accounted for and that there is no unaccounted income that could possibly be tied to a Member’s employment not disclosed to FPPA.
FPPA conducts random audits of the information you provide. If additional verification is required and you do not file a tax return, FPPA will request that you complete IRS 4506-T to obtain a tax transcript from the IRS. This may be used to confirm marital status, employment, and income / wages earned (as applicable) as reported on the VOE form.
Need Additional Information?
Questions? Email annualVOE@fppaco.org, or call the dedicated VOE voicemail at (303) 770-3772, extension 5300.