How to Request a SNAP Appeal or Fair Hearing in Rhode Island

If you live in Rhode Island 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 tell the state you think a mistake was made and want it reviewed.

This guide from HowToGetAssistance.org explains how SNAP appeals and fair hearings in Rhode Island typically work, what to expect, and how to move forward through official state channels. This site is not a government agency and cannot take appeals or applications, but it can help you understand the process.

What Is a SNAP Appeal or Fair Hearing?

A SNAP appeal (also called a fair hearing) is a process where you can ask a neutral hearing officer to review a decision made about your SNAP case. In Rhode Island, SNAP is run by the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS).

You can usually request an appeal if you disagree with:

• A denial of your SNAP application
• A reduction in the amount of your monthly benefits
• A termination (closing) of your SNAP case
• A delay in processing your application or recertification
• An overpayment notice saying you were paid too much
• Any other action or inaction that affects your SNAP benefits

The fair hearing is your chance to:

• Explain your side of the story
• Present documents or proof
• Ask questions about how the decision was made
• Have a decision reviewed by someone who was not involved in your original case decision

Your Appeal Rights in Rhode Island SNAP

Rhode Island SNAP applicants and recipients typically have the right to:

• Request a hearing if they disagree with an action or decision
• Have someone represent them, such as a friend, relative, advocate, or attorney
• Review their case file before the hearing
• Present evidence and witnesses at the hearing
• Receive a written decision after the hearing

If you get a notice letter from DHS about your SNAP case, read it carefully. It usually explains:

• What decision was made
• Why it was made
• The deadline to request a fair hearing
• How to request that hearing (mail, phone, fax, or in person, depending on policies at that time)

Deadlines: How Long Do You Have to Appeal?

Deadlines can vary slightly by situation, but typical timeframes in SNAP include:

• You usually have 90 days from the date on the notice to request a fair hearing for most SNAP decisions.
• If you want to keep receiving your current SNAP benefit amount while you appeal a reduction or termination, you often must file your request within 10 days from the date the notice was mailed (or by the effective date on the notice, whichever is later).

Because deadlines are strict, it helps to:

• Keep the envelope and letter so you know the date mailed
• Request the hearing in writing as soon as you can
• Keep a copy or take a photo of your appeal request for your records

If you’re unsure of your deadline, you can:

• Call the Rhode Island DHS SNAP customer service line
• Visit your local DHS office and ask about your hearing rights

How to Request a SNAP Appeal or Fair Hearing in Rhode Island

The exact methods may change over time, so always check your most recent DHS notice or contact the Rhode Island Department of Human Services to confirm. Common ways to request a hearing include:

1. By Mail or Fax

You can usually:

1. Use the hearing request section on the back or bottom of your SNAP notice, or write a short letter.
2. Include:
   • Your full name
   • Your address and phone number
   • Your SNAP case number or Social Security number (if requested)
   • A statement like: “I request a fair hearing about my SNAP benefits.”
   • The decision you are appealing (for example: denial of benefits dated [date])
3. Send it to the address or fax number listed on your notice.

Keep a copy and proof of mailing or fax confirmation if possible.

2. By Phone

Rhode Island DHS may allow hearing requests by phone. If so, you would typically:

• Call the DHS main customer service line or the number listed on your notice.
• Tell the representative you want to request a fair hearing for SNAP.
• Write down:
  • The date and time of your call
  • The name of the person you spoke with
  • Any confirmation number they give you

3. In Person

You may also be able to request a hearing at your local DHS office. If you go in person:

• Bring your notice letter and photo ID if you have it.
• Ask staff where to submit a fair hearing request.
• Ask for a stamped or signed copy to show it was received.

What to Include in Your Hearing Request

You do not need to write a long explanation. A simple, clear request is enough. Make sure your request includes:

• Your full name
• Your address and phone number
• Your SNAP case number (if you have it)
• A statement that you want a fair hearing
• The decision you disagree with and the date of the notice
• Whether you want to continue receiving your current SNAP benefit amount during the appeal (if you’re appealing a reduction/termination and are still within the deadline)

You do not have to explain your whole case in the request. You can explain more at the hearing.

Can You Keep Getting Benefits While You Appeal?

In many SNAP cases, if your benefits are being reduced or stopped, you may be able to keep getting the same amount you were getting before until the hearing decision is made. This is sometimes called “aid paid pending”.

Important points:

• You generally must request the hearing within a short deadline (often 10 days from the date on the notice or by the effective date of the change).
• If you lose the hearing, you might have to repay the extra SNAP benefits you received during the appeal period.
• If you win, your benefits may be restored or corrected.

If you are unsure, ask DHS or a legal aid program to explain how continuing benefits during appeal works in your specific case.

What Happens After You Request a SNAP Fair Hearing?

Once your request is received:

1. Acknowledgment and Scheduling

• The agency usually sends you a written notice with:
  • The date and time of your hearing
  • Whether the hearing is by phone, video, or in person
  • Information about your rights, including the right to bring someone with you

2. Access to Your Case File

You typically have the right to:

• Review your case file before the hearing
• Ask for copies of documents DHS used to make its decision

You can contact your local DHS office or the office listed in your hearing notice to ask how to see your file.

3. Preparing for the Hearing

It can help to:

• Read your notice carefully and note what DHS says is the reason for the decision.
• Gather documents and proof, such as:
  • Pay stubs or income records
  • Rent or mortgage statements
  • Utility bills
  • Childcare, medical, or other expense receipts
  • Letters from employers, landlords, or service providers
• Write down a short timeline of what happened.
• Prepare a list of key points you want to make.

What the Fair Hearing Is Like

A SNAP fair hearing is usually less formal than a court, but more formal than a regular meeting.

Typical features:

• A hearing officer (a neutral person) leads the hearing.
• A DHS representative may attend to explain why they made the decision.
• You can:
  • Tell your side of the story
  • Present documents
  • Ask questions of the DHS representative
  • Bring witnesses to speak on your behalf, if helpful
• Hearings may be:
  • In person at a designated office
  • By phone
  • By video depending on current procedures and your situation

If you have a disability or need an interpreter or other accommodation, you can tell the DHS office or hearing unit before the hearing so they can arrange assistance.

After the Hearing: The Decision

After the hearing:

• The hearing officer reviews all testimony and documents.
• You receive a written decision in the mail.
• The decision will usually:
  • Summarize the facts
  • Explain the law or rules used
  • State whether the DHS decision is upheld, changed, or reversed

If you win:

• DHS is usually required to correct your SNAP case.
• This may mean:
  • Approving benefits that were denied
  • Increasing your benefit amount
  • Restoring benefits that were cut or stopped too soon

If you lose:

• The original decision usually stays in place.
• If you were getting continued benefits during the appeal and lost, you might owe an overpayment.
• In some cases, you may have the option to appeal further through the court system; a legal aid organization or attorney can explain whether that makes sense in your situation.

Common Reasons SNAP Cases Are Denied or Changed

Understanding common issues can help you know what to address in your appeal:

• Missing documents: Pay stubs, ID, proof of expenses, or other required papers weren’t turned in by the deadline.
• Income calculated incorrectly: Wages, hours, or deductions were miscalculated.
• Household size mistakes: Some people were counted or not counted incorrectly.
• Change not reported or misunderstood: A report of changed income, address, or household members led to a decision you disagree with.
• Residency questions: DHS could not confirm that you live in Rhode Island.
• Late recertification: Forms for renewal were not filed on time, leading to closure.

If you appeal, be prepared to show proof that addresses the specific reason for the decision.

Documents That May Help Your SNAP Appeal

The exact documents you need depend on your situation, but some commonly helpful items include:

• Your SNAP notice letter (denial, reduction, termination, or overpayment)
• Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, etc.)
• Proof of income:
  • Recent pay stubs
  • Self-employment records
  • Unemployment benefit letters
  • Social Security or SSI award letters
• Housing costs:
  • Lease or rental agreement
  • Mortgage statement
  • Property tax or homeowner’s insurance bills
• Utility bills:
  • Electric, gas, heating, water, trash bills
• Dependent care costs:
  • Childcare receipts
  • Adult care expenses
• Medical expenses for household members who are elderly or have disabilities (if applicable):
  • Prescription receipts
  • Medical bills
  • Health insurance premiums
• Any letters or statements that support your claim (from employers, landlords, or others)

Quick Reference: Key Parts of the Rhode Island SNAP Appeal Process

Getting Help With a SNAP Appeal in Rhode Island

You do not have to go through the appeal process alone. Many people find it useful to get help from:

• Legal aid organizations: These groups may offer free legal advice or representation for low-income individuals, especially on public benefits issues.
• Community action agencies and nonprofits: Some help people understand SNAP rules, gather documents, and prepare for hearings.
• Advocates or social workers: Sometimes available through shelters, clinics, or community centers.
• 211: By dialing 211 from most phones, you can usually reach a community referral line that can point you toward local legal or benefits help.

When asking for help, bring:

• Your SNAP notice letters
• Any hearing scheduling letters
• Any documents you have already collected

Verifying You’re Using Official Channels (Avoiding Scams)

When dealing with SNAP appeals, it is important to make sure you are working with official Rhode Island or federal offices, not private scammers.

Here are some tips:

• Do not pay anyone who claims they can “guarantee” SNAP approval or a winning appeal. SNAP and appeals should not require a processing fee.
• Use phone numbers and addresses from:
  • Letters you receive from Rhode Island DHS
  • The state’s official government website or official directory
• Be cautious about:
  • Texts or emails asking for your full Social Security number or EBT PIN
  • Websites that say you can apply for SNAP or file an appeal through them for a fee
• Official staff will not ask for your EBT card PIN. Keep this private.

If you’re unsure whether a phone number or office is official:

• Call 211 and ask for the number of the Rhode Island Department of Human Services SNAP office.
• Look up the state’s primary government site and navigate to human services or SNAP from there.

If You Do Not Qualify or Lose Your SNAP Appeal

If your SNAP application is denied or your appeal is not successful, you may still have other options:

• Reapply later: If your income, expenses, or household situation changes, you may qualify in the future.
• Ask DHS or a legal aid group to explain the decision: Understanding exactly why you were denied can help you fix problems for a future application.
• Look into other food resources, such as:
  • Local food pantries or soup kitchens
  • Community centers, religious organizations, and charities
  • School meal programs for children
• Check other benefit programs:
  • Cash assistance (such as Rhode Island Works, if eligible)
  • Utility assistance programs
  • Rental assistance or housing stabilization programs

Local community action agencies, 211, and nonprofit organizations can often help you find these resources.

Understanding how SNAP appeals and fair hearings work in Rhode Island can make the process less overwhelming. While HowToGetAssistance.org cannot file appeals or applications for you, you can use this information to contact Rhode Island DHS, gather your documents, and move forward through the official appeal process with more confidence.