Food Stamp Reporting Guidelines

Summary

In Hawaii, the Department of Human Services distinguishes between intentional and unintentional failure to report changes in food stamp cases. Intentional non-reporting may be considered fraud, leading to penalties, while unintentional non-reporting, if promptly addressed, may be viewed more leniently. If a case is closed, document attempts to report changes and consider appealing the closure. Overpayments might be sent to collections if unresolved. Legal consultation is advisable for personalized guidance.

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In food stamp case where you failed to report changes in time like a hospital stay and rent, what's the how would the department of human services view intentionally not reporting verses, not knowing you had to report then finding out later that you had and immediately reported but was turned away because of a closed case
To help clarify the situation, could you please provide some more details? Specifically, did you receive any communication from the Department of Human Services regarding the failure to report, and what was the nature of their response?
No
Alright, in Hawaii, the Department of Human Services (DHS) generally distinguishes between intentional and unintentional failure to report changes. Here are some points to consider:
- Intentional Non-Reporting: This could be seen as fraud and might lead to penalties, including repayment of benefits.
- Unintentional Non-Reporting: If you can prove it was unintentional and you reported it as soon as you found out, DHS may be more lenient.
Would you like assistance in contacting a local lawyer for more personalized advice on handling this issue?
What would happen if the report was late because I just found out about reporting but agency turned me away because my case is closed
In your situation, if you reported the change immediately upon learning about it but were turned away because the case was closed, here are a few points to consider:
- Documentation: Keep records of your attempt to report the change, including dates and any communications with the DHS.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal the closure of your case and explain the situation, emphasizing that the failure to report was unintentional.
- Legal Assistance: Consulting with a local attorney could provide more personalized advice and support.
Would you like help finding a local lawyer who can assist you further?
Would the department of human services assume it's fraud if there unable to contact you because your address changed and the food stamp worker turned you away from providing updated information and late reporting because your case closed if it came up during an audit
Case Rating: *
In Hawaii, the Department of Human Services (DHS) would generally review the circumstances surrounding your case before determining fraud. Key points:
- Intentional Non-Reporting: Can be seen as fraud and result in penalties.
- Unintentional Non-Reporting: If you can show you attempted to update your information and were turned away, DHS may consider this in your favor.
Would you like to provide more details about your situation or need assistance with anything else?
Yeah I don't know how get the message across if they won't let me update my contact information because of a closed case and worried they'll think I intentionally not reported because can't contact me. Could the overpayment just be sent to a collection agency
Case Rating: *
It's understandable to be concerned about this situation. The Department of Human Services may send overpayments to a collection agency if they determine you owe money. Here are steps you might take:
- Documentation: Keep all records of your attempts to update your information and report changes.
- Appeal: File an appeal explaining the situation and your attempts to report.
- Legal Help: Consider consulting a local attorney for assistance.
Would you like more detailed advice on how to proceed?