New Compensation Pay Action Worksheet (PAW) Application Announcement
September 19, 2025
Dear HR Professionals,
We are excited to announce the launch of a new compensation Pay Action Application developed in partnership with VITA to replace the paper-driven Pay Action Worksheet (PAW) process! This change is designed to improve efficiency, reduce reliance on paper, and provide greater transparency throughout the approval process. The new application functions similarly to the telework application you are already familiar with, making it user-friendly and intuitive.
Key benefits to using the application include:
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Eliminating paper forms – reducing errors, delays, and manual handling.
- Real-time visibility – easily track the status of a pay action as it moves through the approval process.
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Streamlined approvals – faster, more efficient routing to the appropriate approvers.
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Audit and controls – track and review pay action decisions in one place.
It’s important to note that while the application supports routing, approvals, and tracking, the pay action must still be entered into Cardinal or your agency’s HCM system for the adjustment to take effect.
Agencies are expected to use the Pay Action Application for classified compensation actions starting October 1, 2025. Use of the new process will ensure consistent consideration of pay factors and a budget review has been completed in alignment with policy and Agency Salary Administration Plan.
Please note: Since employees must be active in Cardinal to support this process, new hire pay actions are not part of the tool.
Below is a simple visual of the process workflow:
 What should you do now so you can start using the tool?
- Email COVApps@vita.virginia.gov with the following information:
- Determine if your agency will rely on the default set up, or if additional reviewers and/or approvers are required. Refer to Pay Action Worksheet Setup for guidance.
- Identify two (2) Agency Administrators. The Agency Administrator will be able to assign roles within your agency.
Next Steps and Training
Please review the training materials and video tutorials available on the VITA website. Tutorials include:
- Pay Action Worksheet Process Overview
- How to Get Started
- How to Initiate a PAW
- How to guides for each role
We are excited to launch this application and are committed to continuous improvement. Please reach out with any challenges you encounter or ideas for enhancements that could make the tool even more effective.
DHRM is aware that some agencies may have implemented similar HCM compensation tools. In these instances, please contact DHRM to ensure your agency process is aligned with the Pay Action Application. This includes verifying that all required elements—such as pay factor consideration and budget review—are incorporated in your system and reflected in your ASAP.
For questions/comments related to the tool and/or administrator access, please contact covapps@vita.virginia.gov.
For questions related to DHRM 3.05 - Compensation Policy, please contact compensation@dhrm.virginia.gov.
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