What to Do if You’re Denied Government Assistance

Navigating government benefits can be challenging to figure out, especially if you’re not granted the assistance you’re looking for. Understanding what to do in that situation is crucial for resolving issues and ensuring you get the support you want.

Read on to learn more about government benefits and how you can apply for them with confidence.

What Can Government Benefits Do for You?

Government benefits and assistance programs are designed to support any person who’s looking to maintain financial stability. These programs are vital in promoting financial health.  Sometimes people are denied assistance for application errors or other resolvable issues, which means you can appeal denials.

Understanding what to do if you’re denied assistance is essential because these situations can have significant ramifications for your financial well-being. Knowing your rights and exploring all options in such circumstances empowers you to take steps toward resolving issues and accessing the benefits you’re entitled to receive.

Common Reasons Your Benefits Might Be Denied

Understanding the reasons behind the denial or termination of your government benefits is the first step to resolving issues. Some common reasons you might have encountered denial or termination are:

• Eligibility requirements: Assistance programs have specific eligibility requirements, and a household may not qualify for every program, especially when requirements constantly change. 
• Household changes: A change in financial circumstances or family dynamics may disqualify your household.
• Failure to meet program requirements: Non-compliance with program rules and obligations may cause your assistance to be terminated. 
• Convictions or substance abuse: Certain criminal offenses or substance abuse issues may impact eligibility for some programs. 
• Administrative errors or processing delays: Mistakes or delays in the application or review process happen and can negatively impact assistance timelines. 

Knowing why your benefits have changed can empower you to resolve the issues and access the government benefits you’re entitled to receive.

What Can You Do If Denied Benefits?

If you’re denied government benefits, know that you’re not alone. Many SaverLife members have shared that they’ve also experienced this challenge before. The good news is that there are actions you can take to get past it.

If you’re denied government benefits or your benefits are terminated, it’s important to: 

Understand the Reason for Denial

Contact the agency to clarify why your application was denied or why your benefits were terminated. You can’t move forward without a clear understanding of the reason for denial. 

Review Program Rules

Familiarize yourself with the eligibility criteria and program requirements to assess your situation accurately. Determine if there was a mistake that can be corrected. 

Gather Documentation

Collect any necessary paperwork or evidence to support your case. This may include updated bank statements, birth certificates, or other documentation to verify income, familial status, or other eligibility criteria. 

Request an Appeal or Hearing 

You can appeal or request a hearing if you believe the decision was made in error. Remain calm, follow the formal appeal procedure, and present your case. 

If you’re not sure where to start with an appeal, dial 211. In all 50 states, dialing “211” provides a shortcut through what can be a bewildering maze of health and human service agency phone numbers. By simply dialing 211, you can be referred, and sometimes connected to, appropriate agencies and community organizations.

For federal assistance programs, like SSI/SSDI (disability) or Medicare, the appeals process can be more unique and complicated.

If you’re struggling with any aspect of your appeal, legal aid can be a critical resource. Learn more below.

Seek Legal Assistance

Consider contacting legal aid organizations or community resources for guidance and support. These organizations often offer free or reduced fees to assist the community with important services. 

The Legal Services Corporation (LSC) is an independent nonprofit established by Congress in 1974 to provide financial support for civil legal aid to Americans with low income. They can help you find local legal aid support. To search the LSC database and contact a legal aid organization in your area, visit the LSC website here. 

Reduce Your Chances of Benefits Termination

Sometimes benefits can be terminated quickly and unexpectedly. While there’s no clear method for avoiding this, there are some steps you can take to reduce the chance of having them ended. Here are some quick tips to help you stay on track: 

1. Keep records: Maintain accurate records of your finances, employment, and household information. Everything should be dated and organized. 
2. Promptly report changes: Notify the relevant authorities of any changes to your income, household size, or other relevant circumstances.
3. Comply with program requirements: Stay updated with all rules and requirements, especially if there are changes, and adhere to them to prevent issues.
4. Seek assistance: Don’t hesitate to reach out to community organizations or support services for guidance and assistance when needed.

Finding a Path Forward

Although dealing with government programs can be challenging, staying informed and proactive can help you overcome obstacles and secure the support you’re entitled to receive. And always remember: there are resources available to support you every step of the way — including SaverLife.

Do you have a question about government benefits? Need support navigating the application process? You can post to our forum to connect with other SaverLife members.