WIOA FAQ
What is wioa?
WIOA is a Department of Labor Employment and Training Administration funded program that supersedes the Workforce Investment Act of 1998. WIOA prepares eligible individuals for entry or re-entry into the workforce through retraining and education. The program seeks to increase the employment and retention earnings of clients and as a result increase the quality of the workforce, reduce unemployment and enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the client.
who do we serve?
In-school and out-of-school youth, adults, and dislocated workers who live in or have been separated from their jobs could be eligible for WIOA assistance.
am i entitled to wioa funding?
WIOA is not an entitlement program. CFR Vol 81, No. 161, 8.16.2016 Rules and Regulations states: "WIOA is not an entitlement program. Determinations for training are made consistent with the law, including WIOA sec. 134(c)(3)(A), State and local policies, funding availability, and other appropriate considerations."
HOw long before I can begin training?
After you are determined eligible and suitable for a WIOA Training Account and completed all required paperwork, evaluation and assessments, every effort is made to help you as soon as possible.
CAN I attend any school or training program and will wioa pay for any training I wish to take?
WIOA requires that the State Workforce Agency maintain a list of institutions and their training programs that are eligible for Training Accounts. This list is called the Eligible Training Programs List (ETPL), which helps ensure training program quality, accountability, and an informed choice for WIOA clients selecting training. The Department of Workforce Development - Department of Employment and Training, as Wisconsin's State Workforce Agency, is responsible for overseeing and maintaining Wisconsin's ETPL.
The training provider and/or school and their training program must be on Wisconsin's ETPL, must be linked to in-demand occupations in the local area showing positive projected annual openings with a reported median salary of$24,960 minimum, must be fundable considering the local workforce board's training policy limitations, and training funds must have not yet been exhausted for the program year.
You may search for WIOA eligible training programs at: https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/etpl/home/programsearch
if i don't know what kind of career or training i am interested in pursuing, can i get help?
Yes! Your WIOA Career Planner can provide you with information that will assist you in making an informed decision. We encourage customer choice on selecting which training school and program would be best for you.
WIll wioa pay for prerequisite and/or developmental courses?
In general, prerequisite courses are not eligible for WIOA funding. Exceptions include adult literacy services when provided concurrently with another training service and some industry sector-specific computer classes.
will i have to apply for a loan to supplement wioa?
It is legislated that local areas must consider the availability of other sources of funds to pay for training costs such as scholarships, other programs, and Federal Pell Grants. All WIOA clients interested in training programs will be required to explore other sources of funding and report on the status of that potential funding.
I AM ALREADY attending school. Will wioa pay my tuition retroactively?
No. Individuals who have registered or enrolled in an academic or technical training program prior to enrolling in the WIOA program will not be eligible for reimbursement of any previously incurred expenses.
DO I NEED PERMISSION to change classes or programs?
Yes. Keep in mind that WIOA only assists with one (1) program of study. Your choice is documented at the time of intake/application and also on the training account application and authorization form that includes the policies for receiving training account funds.
WHat happens if i need to drop a class or school?
WIOA clients who voluntarily discontinue class/school or fail to start an authorized training program will not be eligible for a subsequent training programs.
WIOA clients who voluntarily drop out of training programs will have to reimburse the service provider for tangible costs and will not be eligible for future funding. Tangible costs may include equipment, tools, supplies, and fees.
WIOA clients are required to communicate frequently, at least once a month, with their Career Planners. Any curriculum changes or personal situations that may impact your program completion should be shared with your Career Planner as soon as possible.