We all hate waiting on the government to process our paperwork. 😤 Ever sit in an uncomfortable chair at the DMV for six hours on a random Wednesday? Nightmare fuel. 😵🪪
There's good news for Pennsylvanians applying for licenses, certifications, and permits! Governor Shapiro just announced a new program that gives applicants their money back if the state doesn't meet its processing deadlines. 🤑
Here’s Five Fast Facts on PA's "money-back guarantee" program:
- 📋 Taking Inventory - Earlier this year, the Shapiro administration did a review of the 2,400 licenses, permits, and certifications issued by PA. They used the findings to cut down on wait times and backlogs for certificates, licenses, and more. For example, they were able to cut down teaching certificate wait times down to three weeks from 10.
- 💻 Accountability, Baby - To keep things running smoothly, the state will now publish application processing deadlines. If they're not met, any application fees will be refunded to the applicant through a brand new website called PAyback.
- 🤞 Trust the Process - At the end of the application process, applicants will be notified to visit the PAyback site to check the deadline and when they'd be eligible for a refund. Specific fees and deadlines vary per application.
- 🥱 Waiting Room - An example of how this all works: if you apply for a barber's license, you'd be eligible for a full refund of your $170 application fee if it's not processed within the 45 day deadline.
- ⏰ Beat the Clock - Roughly 70% of all applications would be eligible for a refund if PA doesn’t meet the deadlines. Some certifications, like the small diverse business or veteran-owned business application, don't require fees in the first place.
🔥Bottom line: Fun fact: this program is apparently the first one of its kind in the nation! Look at you go, PA. Such an innovator, we're so proud. Before you call in sick to get your license renewed, check out this article on the reinvention of sick days.
Are you currently waiting for a license or certificate?
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