After what event is a Post Award Audit (PAA) conducted?

A Post Award Audit (PAA) is specifically conducted after a grant of benefits has been made, provided that there is an active or current award in place. This type of audit is important for ensuring compliance and verifying that all changes in circumstances, such as income or eligibility criteria, are properly accounted for in relation to the benefits being provided. The timing of the PAA is critical because it allows for a thorough review of the award and the circumstances surrounding it, ensuring that any necessary adjustments can be made to maintain accurate and appropriate benefits for the Veteran.

The other options do not align with the purpose and timing of a PAA. Conducting an audit before a claim is filed would not be practical since there would be no awarded benefits or existing information to evaluate. An audit every month regardless of changes in income overlooks the targeted approach of a PAA, which focuses on changes related to current awards rather than a standard monthly schedule. Furthermore, conducting an audit only when a Veteran requests a change in benefits lacks the proactive oversight element, as it is essential to assess awarded benefits independently through regular audits rather than solely relying on requests from Veterans.