How to Request a SNAP Appeal or Fair Hearing in Connecticut

If you live in Connecticut and disagree with a decision about your SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, you may have the right to ask for an appeal or fair hearing. This is a formal way to say, “I think this decision is wrong, and I want someone else to review it.”

This guide explains, in plain language, how SNAP appeals and fair hearings typically work in Connecticut, what to expect, and how to move forward through official state channels. HowToGetAssistance.org is an informational site only and is not an official agency and does not process appeals or applications.

What Is a SNAP Appeal or Fair Hearing in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, a SNAP appeal (also called a fair hearing) is a process where you can ask the state to review a decision made about your food benefits. A neutral hearing officer (or similar official) reviews your case and decides whether the agency’s decision was correct based on the rules.

You might ask for a fair hearing if you disagree with:

• A denial of your SNAP application
• A reduction in your benefit amount
• A termination (closing) of your SNAP case
• A sanction or penalty
• A finding of overpayment or that you owe money back
• A delay in getting a decision or benefits

In Connecticut, SNAP is typically administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS). The fair hearing is usually handled by a hearings unit within the state.

Your Right to Appeal a SNAP Decision in Connecticut

In most situations, Connecticut SNAP recipients have the right to:

• Request a hearing if they disagree with a decision
• Receive written notice explaining the decision and your appeal rights
• See your case file and any documents the agency plans to use
• Bring evidence and witnesses to support your case
• Have someone help you, such as a friend, family member, advocate, or attorney
• Use an interpreter if you are more comfortable in another language

The exact details can change, so check your official notice from DSS and contact your local DSS office or the state SNAP hotline with questions about your specific situation.

Common SNAP Decisions You Can Appeal in Connecticut

People in Connecticut often request SNAP fair hearings for issues such as:

1. SNAP Application Denied

You may appeal if you believe:

• Your income or household size was calculated incorrectly
• Certain expenses (like rent, utilities, or child care) were not counted
• The agency misunderstood or did not fully review your documents

2. SNAP Benefits Reduced or Stopped

You may appeal when:

• Your SNAP amount suddenly drops and you do not understand why
• Your case is closed even though you submitted requested paperwork
• The agency claims you are no longer eligible, but you believe you still qualify

3. Overpayment or Fraud Allegations

If the agency says you were overpaid and must pay money back, or suggests intentional program violation, you generally have the right to a fair hearing to challenge that decision.

4. Delays or No Response

If your application or recertification is delayed beyond the usual time limit and you still do not have a decision, you may be able to request a fair hearing about the delay (often called “failure to act”).

Deadlines: How Long Do You Have to File an Appeal?

Deadlines for SNAP appeals in Connecticut are strict and can depend on the type of decision and the date on your notice. Always check the appeal section of your official DSS notice.

Typical time frames (these can change, so confirm with your official notice or your local DSS office):

• Standard SNAP decisions (denials, reductions, closings):
  Often you must request a hearing within 90 days of the date on the notice.

• To keep benefits going while you appeal (aid-continuing):
  You may need to request the hearing before the effective date of the change (usually before the date your benefits are reduced or stopped).

If you are close to a deadline and unsure, it is usually better to submit your hearing request right away through the official channel and then gather more information.

Ways to Request a SNAP Fair Hearing in Connecticut

Connecticut generally allows multiple ways to request a SNAP fair hearing. The official notice you received should explain your options. Common methods include:

1. By Mail or Fax

You may:

1. Fill out the hearing request section on your notice (if provided), or write a short letter saying you want a hearing.
2. Include:
   • Your name
   • Address and phone number
   • Your client ID or case number (if you have it)
   • A brief statement of what decision you are appealing
3. Send it to the address or fax number for the DSS hearings unit shown on your notice.

2. In Person at a Local DSS Office

You can usually:

• Go to your local DSS office
• Ask staff how to request a SNAP fair hearing
• Complete and submit the request there

Ask for a date-stamped copy or other proof that you made the request.

3. By Phone (If Allowed)

In some cases, Connecticut DSS may accept hearing requests by phone through a state benefits hotline or DSS customer service line. The number is typically printed on your notice.

If you request a hearing by phone, it can help to:

• Write down the date, time, and name of the person you spoke with
• Ask if there is a confirmation number or if they can mail you confirmation

Always follow the instructions on your written notice, since procedures can change.

What to Say When You Request a SNAP Hearing

You do not need to use legal language. Typically, you just need to say clearly that you disagree with the decision and want a fair hearing.

You can say or write something like:

• “I am requesting a fair hearing because I disagree with the decision to deny my SNAP application.”
• “I want a hearing about the reduction/termination of my SNAP benefits effective [date].”

You do not have to explain your entire case at this point, but you can give a short reason. The main goal is to get your request in on time.

Can You Keep Getting Benefits While You Appeal?

In some cases, Connecticut SNAP rules allow your benefits to continue at the current level while your case is under appeal. This is often called “aid-continuing” or “continuation of benefits.”

You may qualify for continued benefits if:

• You file your hearing request before the date the change takes effect (check your notice carefully).
• The issue involves a reduction or termination of benefits, not an initial denial.

Important considerations:

• If you lose the hearing, you might have to repay any extra benefits you received during the appeal period.
• If you win, the agency usually has to fix the error and issue any benefits you should have received.

If you are unsure, ask the DSS office or the state SNAP hotline how continuation of benefits works in your specific case.

Documents and Information to Gather for Your SNAP Hearing

Having clear documentation can make a big difference. Common items that help in a SNAP fair hearing include:

• The notice you are appealing (denial, reduction, closure, or overpayment notice)
• Proof of income:
  • Pay stubs
  • Self-employment records
  • Social Security or unemployment benefit letters
• Proof of expenses:
  • Rent or mortgage statement
  • Utility bills (heat, electricity, water, etc.)
  • Child care or dependent care receipts
  • Medical expense records (if you or another household member is elderly or has a disability and medical costs are counted by the program)
• Proof of household members:
  • IDs, birth certificates, or other documents (if relevant to your case)
• Copies of forms and letters you gave to DSS
• Any notes about phone calls or visits with DSS (dates, times, names)

Try to make copies of everything you plan to submit. Keep the originals in a safe place.

Before the Hearing: Pre-Hearing Review and Case File Access

Once you request a hearing, a few things may happen:

1. Pre-Hearing Review

Sometimes the agency will re-check your case. If they realize an error was made, they might:

• Correct the decision before the hearing date
• Offer an adjustment that solves the problem

If the issue is resolved in a way you agree with, you can choose to withdraw your hearing request. Make sure any agreement is clear and in writing from the agency.

2. Access to Your Case File

You generally have the right to:

• Review your case file
• Ask for copies of documents the agency plans to use at the hearing

You can contact your local DSS office or the hearings unit listed on your notice to find out how to see your file.

What Happens During the SNAP Fair Hearing in Connecticut?

SNAP fair hearings in Connecticut are often held by phone or video, though in-person hearings may also be available in some cases. Your hearing notice should give details.

Here is what typically happens:

1. Introduction

   • A hearing officer explains the purpose and process.
   • Everyone present (you, the agency representative, witnesses) is identified.

2. Swearing In

   • You and any witnesses may be asked to swear or affirm that your testimony will be truthful.

3. Agency’s Presentation

   • The agency representative explains why they made the decision.
   • They may present documents and explain how they applied SNAP rules.

4. Your Turn to Present Your Side

   • You explain why you disagree with the decision.
   • You can show documents, share records, and call witnesses.
   • You can question the agency’s evidence (ask about how they calculated income, whether they counted all your expenses, etc.).

5. Questions from the Hearing Officer

   • The hearing officer may ask both sides questions to clarify the facts.

6. Closing

   • You may be allowed to give a brief final statement.
   • The hearing is then ended, and a written decision will come later.

You do not have to be a lawyer. The hearing officer should explain the process in clear terms and allow you to present your story. If something is confusing, you can respectfully ask for clarification.

After the Hearing: Getting the Decision

After the hearing, the officer will review:

• Testimony from both sides
• Documents and evidence
• The relevant SNAP laws and regulations

You will receive a written decision by mail. The decision letter typically explains:

• The facts found in your case
• The rules that were applied
• Whether the agency’s decision is:
  • Upheld (stays the same)
  • Reversed (changed in your favor)
  • Modified (adjusted in some way)
• Any actions the agency must take, such as:
  • Issuing back benefits you were owed
  • Updating your benefit level
  • Removing or adjusting an overpayment

If you disagree with the hearing decision, there may be further review options through state courts or additional appeal steps. Those processes are usually more complex. Legal aid organizations in Connecticut may be able to explain your options.

Comparing Key SNAP Appeal Points in Connecticut

Below is a simplified overview of some important features of Connecticut SNAP appeals and hearings. Always confirm details with your official notice or local office.

*Details can change. Always follow the instructions on your current DSS notice and verify with the official agency.

Common Reasons SNAP Appeals Succeed or Fail

Understanding common patterns can help you prepare.

Appeals Are More Likely to Succeed When:

• You file on time and keep proof of your request.
• You provide clear documents (pay stubs, bills, letters) that support your position.
• You can show that:
  • Your income was miscalculated
  • Your expenses (like rent, utilities, child care) were not properly counted
  • A deadline or requirement was met, but the system did not record it
• You stay organized and calm during the hearing and answer questions directly.

Appeals Are More Likely to Fail When:

• The hearing request is late, and no exception is allowed.
• The agency correctly applied the rules based on the information they had.
• You do not provide any documents or testimony to counter the agency’s evidence.
• Clear rules limit eligibility (for example, income is well above the program’s limit).

Even if your appeal is not successful, going through the hearing can clarify what you need to change or what documents you might need next time.

Getting Help With a SNAP Appeal in Connecticut

You are allowed to seek help preparing for and attending your fair hearing. Possible sources of help include:

• Legal aid organizations in Connecticut that handle benefits cases
• Nonprofit advocacy groups focused on hunger, poverty, or public benefits
• Community centers and social service agencies that offer case management
• Friends or family members who can help you gather papers or speak on your behalf (with your permission)

When you contact any organization, be clear that you are seeking help with a SNAP fair hearing in Connecticut. Ask if they have income or other eligibility requirements for assistance.

If You Do Not Qualify for SNAP or Lose Your Appeal

If your SNAP application is denied and you lose your appeal, or you are found ineligible, there may still be resources to help with food and basic needs:

• Food pantries and meal programs: Many are listed by local community groups or through 2-1-1 (a statewide information and referral line in many states, including Connecticut).
• WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): For pregnant people, new parents, infants, and young children who qualify.
• School meal programs: Reduced-price or free breakfast and lunch for eligible students.
• Faith-based organizations and community centers: Often provide emergency food or vouchers.

You can call 2-1-1 in Connecticut to ask about nearby food programs, shelters, and other help. This is an information and referral service, not a government benefit office.

How to Make Sure You Are Using Official SNAP Channels

Because HowToGetAssistance.org is not a government agency and cannot process appeals, it is important to verify that you are working through legitimate official sources.

Here are some tips:

• Check the sender: Official SNAP and DSS letters generally come from a state government address in Connecticut and clearly identify the department.
• Look for official logos: State agencies usually use consistent logos on their letters and forms.
• Use phone numbers listed on your notice: Call the numbers printed on official DSS letters, not numbers found randomly online or in text messages.
• Be cautious with upfront fees: SNAP and SNAP appeals through DSS do not charge application or hearing fees. If someone asks you to pay to “guarantee approval” or “speed up” your appeal, treat it as a red flag.
• Do not share your EBT PIN: Even with people who say they are from the government or a help site. Official workers do not need your card PIN.

If you are uncertain whether you’re on an official site, you can:

• Call your local DSS office using a number from a paper notice or from a government directory.
• Ask 2-1-1 to help you locate the official Connecticut SNAP office contact.

By understanding your rights, meeting deadlines, and using official Connecticut DSS channels, you can bring concerns about your SNAP benefits to a fair hearing and have your case reviewed by a neutral decision-maker.