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Signed Face Sheet Policy Change
Several times over the past few years, both in order to be responsive to changing technology and as the situation warranted it, HRSA has changed its policy regarding formal submission of grant applications.
In the days before electronic submission of applications we required, along with the paper application, an original signature/hard copy of the SF-424 face sheet.
When we implemented electronic submission we initially required applicants to print out, sign, and mail a hard copy of the face sheet. That process was changed last year to require applicants to print out, sign, scan, and attach the signed face sheet to their electronic application submission.
Based on counsel received from the Office of General Council, we have determined that there is nothing that would legally prohibit HRSA from using the "electronic signature" from Grants.gov as the official signature when applying for a grant or cooperative agreement. The electronic certification will be considered to be just as "binding" as a non-electronic/paper signature. Therefore, signed, scanned face sheets will no longer be required as attachments to the electronic application.
During the transition period HRSA will continue to accept signed face sheets as Attachment 1; however, applicants that have difficulty scanning and attaching the face sheet will be informed that a paper copy is no longer required. Applicants should continue to follow specific guidance instructions for placement of other attachments within their electronic application submission.
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