Within the Interagency Merit System (IMS) there are two types of permanent status: one is in the career service and the other is in a classification. Permanent status in the career service is obtained upon completion of the initial probationary period or equivalent time period. Upon obtaining permanent status in the career service an employee may only be removed from the career service for cause, curtailment of work, or lack of funds. Likewise, when an employee successfully completes the probationary period for the classification they occupy, they obtain permanent status in that class and can only be removed from that class for cause, curtailment of work, or lack of funds.