Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a pessimism service?

No. The Department does not tell you things will go wrong. It tells you what 'going right' actually looks like based on documented outcomes in similar situations. That is different.

What if I disagree with the determination?

You may appeal. Appeals are reviewed by a senior review officer. Approximately 12% of appeals result in a revised determination. The other 88% result in a confirmation of the original determination, sometimes with additional supporting rationale.

Can I submit an expectation about the Department's own performance?

Yes. Several clients have done this. The expectation that the Department would issue determinations faster than the stated 15 to 30 business days received a rating of 4 — Unreasonable. The determination was issued within the standard window.

Do you ever issue a rating of 1?

Yes. Approximately 4% of submissions receive a rating of 1 — Demonstrably Reasonable. These clients typically describe the experience as 'anticlimactic.' We understand.