Preparing for the Hearing

Before the hearing, the local agency must send you a Summary of Facts that explains the decision that they made. Please tell your Hearing Officer if you do not receive it.

If you have anything that you would like the Hearing Officer to see, you can send it to them. You can use the email address or mailing address that is on the Notice of Fair Hearing.

Anyone can help you with your appeals with AFH. It can be a friend, family member or neighbor.

You may also contact Legal Aid at (866) 534-5243.

The Hearing

Hearings are done by phone. The Notice of Fair Hearing will tell you when to call and what number to call.

Here’s what happens during the hearing:

• Once you are on the line with the Hearing Officer and the local agency, the Hearing Officer will start the hearing. Anyone from the local agency can be at the hearing. It may not be your worker.
• Everyone will be asked to introduce themselves.
• The Hearing Officer will ask the local agency to explain why they made their decision on their case. When they are done, the Hearing Officer may ask questions. You can ask questions too.
• The Hearing Officer will then ask you to explain why you do not agree with the local agency. The local agency or the Hearing Officer may ask you questions.
• You can have witnesses during the hearing. The Hearing Officer will say when they can speak. They may be asked questions.
• The Hearing Officer will decide when both sides have said enough and will end the hearing.

What if I Need a Different Hearing Date?

Please contact your Hearing Officer as soon as you can. Your new hearing date will be a maximum of 30 days from the original hearing date.

If you have a specific time or date that you are free, please tell your Hearing Officer so they can try to schedule your hearing then.

After the Hearing

• The Hearing Officer reviews everything that was said and all documents.
• A written decision is mailed within 60 days (unless you asked for a delay).
• If you disagree with the decision, you can:
  • Appeal to Circuit Court
  • Request a Panel Review (for policy changes only—not to change your appeal outcome)

What if I Don’t Want to Appeal Anymore?

If you no longer want to appeal, you just have to tell us. You can do this at any time during the appeal process.

You may withdraw by:

• Using CommonHelp
• Emailing your Hearing Officer
• (For SNAP) calling your Hearing Officer or case worker

You will receive a letter confirming your withdrawal, which will be within 14-days. 

What if I Miss My Hearing?

If you miss your hearing, the Hearing Officer will mail you a letter. You must explain in writing why you missed it.

• If you show Good Cause (something beyond your control, like a power outage), your hearing will be rescheduled.
• If you do not have Good Cause, your appeal will be closed, and the local agency’s decision will stand.

What if I Need an Interpreter or Other Accommodations?

Please contact your Hearing Officer and tell them what you need. They will provide an interpreter or reasonable accommodations.