If we leave a data field blank in our progress report, will we be able to validate the report?

In some cases a field can be left blank and the reporting form will still validate successfully. However, there are also cases where the form will not validate successfully if there is missing data or the data that has been entered is causing a validation error. In these cases, we recommend that you use “dummy data” and enter a number like 1 when the field cannot remain blank. Then, go to the last narrative question on the form (where you are asked to discuss the data submitted) and explain, “We entered 1 in question 26 in order to validate the form. The number in question 26 should be deleted.” This way, you will be able to validate the form and submit the data by the deadline and, using your description, VAWA MEI can correct the data.