VA Form 10-0144: Certification Regarding Lobbying Guide

VA Form 10-0144: Certification Regarding Lobbying Guide – VA Form 10-0144 is a required document for entities seeking or maintaining certain VA federal grants, particularly in the State Veterans Home Per Diem program. This certification ensures compliance with federal lobbying restrictions under Section 319 of Public Law 101-121.

Download the official form here: VA Form 10-0144 (PDF)

What Is VA Form 10-0144?

VA Form 10-0144 is the Certification Regarding Lobbying used by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It requires applicants and recipients of VA federal grants, loans, or cooperative agreements to certify that they have not used and will not use federal appropriated funds to influence federal officials in connection with the awarding or modification of these transactions.

The form is a one-page document with OMB Control No. 2900-0883 and an estimated completion time of just 5 minutes. It applies to State agencies and other entities participating in VA programs that involve federal funding.

Why Is the Certification Regarding Lobbying Required?

Federal law prohibits the use of taxpayer dollars for lobbying activities aimed at influencing the awarding of contracts, grants, loans, or cooperative agreements. This form enforces transparency and accountability:

  • No federal appropriated funds may be used for lobbying.
  • Non-federal funds used for lobbying must be disclosed via Standard Form-LLL.
  • The certification must flow down to all subawards and subrecipients.

Failure to file can result in civil penalties of $10,000 to $100,000 per violation. The certification is a material representation of fact relied upon by the VA.

Who Needs to Complete VA Form 10-0144?

Primarily, State agencies operating or applying for recognition of State Veterans Homes (nursing homes, domiciliary, or adult day health care facilities) that receive VA per diem payments must submit this form.

It is required for:

  • Initial applications and annual certifications in the State Home Per Diem program (38 CFR Part 51).
  • Other VA grant programs where federal funding is involved.
  • Subrecipients and lower-tier participants.

State Veterans Homes provide care to eligible veterans, and VA reimburses states on a per diem basis for qualifying veterans. Compliance with forms like 10-0144 is part of maintaining VA recognition and funding eligibility.

How to Fill Out VA Form 10-0144?

The form is straightforward:

  1. Read the certification statements — Confirm no federal funds were or will be used for lobbying.
  2. Provide contact information — Name and title of the certifying official, signature, date, project/FAI number, and name/address of the State agency.
  3. Attach disclosure if applicable — Use Standard Form-LLL if non-federal funds were used for lobbying activities.
  4. Submit — As directed by the VA medical center of jurisdiction or program office, typically with other application or renewal documents.

The current version is dated DEC 2023. Always use the official fillable PDF from VA.gov.

Official Download: https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-Form-10-0144-fill.pdf

Key Provisions of the Certification

The undersigned certifies that:

  • No federal appropriated funds have been or will be paid for influencing officers, employees, Members of Congress, etc.
  • Any non-federal lobbying payments will be disclosed.
  • The certification language will be included in all subawards.

This aligns with government-wide standards for federal awards.

  • VA Form 10-0144A: Statement of Assurance of Compliance with Equal Opportunity Laws (often submitted together).
  • State Home Per Diem Program information: VA Geriatrics and Extended Care
  • General VA Forms Library: VA.gov Forms

For full program details, refer to 38 CFR Part 51.

Common Questions About VA Form 10-0144

Is this form only for State Veterans Homes?
Primarily yes, in the VA context, but similar certifications apply across federal agencies for grants over certain thresholds.

How often must it be submitted?
Typically annually or with each relevant application/renewal for per diem funding.

What if lobbying activities occur?
Disclose using SF-LLL. Consult legal counsel for compliance.

Penalties for non-compliance?
Civil penalties up to $100,000 per failure, plus potential loss of funding.

Importance for State Agencies and Veteran Care

Accurate completion of VA Form 10-0144 helps ensure uninterrupted per diem payments that support high-quality care for veterans in State homes. It demonstrates commitment to ethical use of federal funds and full transparency.

For the most current guidance, visit the official VA forms page or contact your VA medical center’s State Home coordinator.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always consult official VA sources or qualified professionals for your specific situation.