117            RIGHT TO A FAIR HEARING

A fair hearing provides the opportunity for an individual or household to have their case reviewed by an impartial party or authority outside the Division of Public Assistance. It is available to applicants for and recipients of Temporary Assistance, SNAPSupplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Medicaid, Adult Public Assistance, General Relief Assistance, Child Care Assistance, and Heating Assistance benefits.

Applicants and recipients must be informed of their right to a fair hearing during the initial interview, and anytime an action is taken by the Division that affects the benefits or services they receive.

Clients are also notified of their right to a fair hearing on the back of most notices sent to the household. This information includes:

• How they may request a fair hearing;
• That if necessary, the agency will assist them in making the request;
• The time frame allowed to request a fair hearing;
• Their right to continued benefits; and
• Their right to represent themselves, or be represented by a legal counsel, friend, or relative.