Sec. 1 Requirement
At the direction of the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (Comptroller), University of Texas System institutions are to utilize certain procedures to notify the Comptroller of employees who can approve agency expenditures. These employees are placed on the agency’s voucher signature card.
Sec. 2 Reason for Policy
This policy is necessary so there are clear, documented procedures related to signature cards required by the Comptroller. Should the U. T. System submit incomplete signature cards or not obtain proper sign-off by the appropriate official at the institution per the requirements, the result could be rejected or delayed processing of institution payments. The signature authority allows approval of Uniform Statewide Accounting System (USAS) payment documents, the Uniform Statewide Payroll/Personnel System (USPS) and the Standardized Payroll/Personnel Reporting System documents, and vouchers submitted to the Comptroller on paper.
Sec. 3 Signature Card Changes
When a change is needed to add an authorized approver, a signature card must be submitted to the Comptroller, along with instructions as to what changes the agency desires. A complete set of all authorized signatures is not required by the Comptroller. Changes can be requested to add or delete one or more signatures individually. Instructions, signed by the authorized person requesting the change, should accompany the signatures provided. If the agency chooses to submit all new signatures, they may do so, however, instructions in the transmittal letter should request the destruction of the old card to be replaced with the new card.
Sec. 4 Termination of Authorized Signers
The Comptroller should be notified in writing within five days of the termination of any authorized signer. The notification letter may be mailed to Attn: Signature Card Analyst, Fiscal Management Division, Comptroller of Public Accounts, 111 East 17th Street, Austin, TX 78774-001.
Sec. 5 Required Approvals
All signature authorizations should be approved by the president of the submitting institution or the Chancellor. Notifications sent to the Comptroller requesting changes to a signature card must be signed by the president of the submitting institution or the Chancellor.
Definitions
Signature Card - The postcard-sized document a state agency submits to the Comptroller to identify the signature of each individual who is authorized to approve the agency’s vouchers.
Note
Signature cards may be obtained from the Signature Card Analyst, Fiscal Management Division, Comptroller of Public Accounts, 111 East 17th Street, Austin, TX 78774-001, or by phone at 512-463-4258.
