Important Reminders for Clients Receiving Unemployment or SNAP Benefits
Unemployment Compensation (UC): Clients receiving UC must regularly check their Department of Labor (DOL) accounts for messages. Encourage them to log in at least three times a week to look for any updates or notices. If the DOL denies their benefits, they only have 21 days from the date of the notice to file an appeal. Many people miss these deadlines because they don’t check their DOL inbox or assume they will get a phone call. Missing a denial notice can lead to large overpayments, and even fraud allegations, if left unchallenged. SNAP (Food Stamps): SNAP recipients must re-certify on time to keep their benefits. DSS sends a letter telling them to submit documents and call DSS for an interview before a specific date. This date is a deadline, not an appointment. If a client waits for a call from DSS instead of calling in themselves, their benefits may stop. What You Can Do: Please remind your clients to stay alert for mail and online messages from DSS or DOL, and to act quickly. A missed notice can cause lost benefits or repayment demands. Staying informed can make all the difference.