Q: What are Requirements Payments?

A: Requirements Payments are funds that are authorized under Section 251 of The Help America Vote Act (HAVA). These funds must be used to meet the requirements in Title III of HAVA, which include voting system standards, voting information requirements, provisional voting, statewide voter registration lists, and identification requirements for voters who register by mail.

Q: What does a state have to do to receive the 2008 Requirements Payments?

• Amend and properly publish the state plan
• Submit administrative complaint procedures
• Attest that the state is in compliance with federal laws as they apply to HAVA
• Certify that the funds will be used to meet the Title III requirements unless other conditions are met
• Appropriate the 5 percent match
• File a certification with the EAC attesting to the information above

Click here for more detailed instructions about applying for Requirements Payments.

Q: How long will it take to receive the funds?

A: The funding is now available. Distribution timelines depend on the completeness of the 253 certification filed by each state. Funds will not be distributed until the certification process is successfully completed by a state. See the answer above for more information about the steps that must be completed in order to file a certification with the EAC.

Q: What is a Section 253 certification?

A: This is an official document submitted to the EAC by the state's chief executive officer, in consultation with the chief state election official, officially attesting that the state is eligible to receive the Requirements Payment.

Q: How much does each state receive?

A: Please click here to view the distribution amounts for the 2008 Requirements Payments. 

Q: Does the state have to provide any matching funds?

A: Yes. Each state must provide a match that is 5 percent of the total amount to be spent (taking into account the federal amount and the state amount). The EAC has already calculated the required 5 percent match for each state, and those figures are available here. 

Q: Does this funding have to be spent in Fiscal Year 2008?

A: No. The funding is available until expended by the state. 

Q: What can the funding be used for?

A: Click here for more information about the allowable uses of HAVA funds, including Requirements Payments.

Q: Is there a deadline for submitting a certification or a request for the funding?

A: No, there is no deadline. 

Q: Does a state have to amend its state plan to receive the 2008 Requirements Payments?

A: Yes, click here for more information about revising and submitting a state plan.

Q: Can a county or local jurisdiction apply for or receive Requirements Payments?

A: Per HAVA, only states, territories, and the District of Columbia can apply for Requirements Payments. These entities must outline in their state plans how the funds will be used.

Q: Are there any reporting requirements for this funding?

A: Yes, states are required to submit annual reports to the EAC describing how the funds were used. Click here for more information on reporting deadlines, reporting forms, and sample forms. Also, click here for information about the EAC's audit activities.

Q: Who can I contact for more information?

A: Contact Mr. Edgardo Cortés toll-free at 866-747-1471.