Advocacy Resources It is common to run into problems as a welfare consumer. There are lots of consumers in the County Assistance Office and the caseworkers have to keep up-to-date with many cases and constantly changing rules. When you run into trouble, do not be discouraged or take it personally. It is not just you-many others also get frustrated at times. Ask for help and keep trying! You and your family are important. Maybe your caseworker made a mistake or didn't understand your situation. Maybe you can try to solve the problem another way. 1. Save all paperwork -Make sure you save any papers or letters that come to you. Keep a special file or folder with all of your welfare paperwork in it. Keep track of all your contact with your worker(s). Write down the date, what the person told you and what their name is. 2. Get a receipt!!!- Get a receipt every time you turn in paperwork or pay stubs to the welfare office. The best way to turn paperwork in is to drop it off in person and have the receptionist write you a receipt. Keep the receipt in a folder! 3. Be clear about your demand -Make sure you start by telling the caseworker or supervisor what you want. If you can, also tell them in writing. 4. You have the right to take someone with you to your appointments!- When you are going to the welfare office for an appointment or interview you can take someone with you. It can be an advocate or anyone you trust. 5. Ask how you can change things- Call your caseworker or the supervisor. See page 32 for the chain of command in the welfare office. If your worker is not helping you, ask to speak to their supervisor. If the supervisor does not help you can ask to speak to their supervisor or the manager. Ask them "how can I fix this problem?" Ask them to send you a letter that says what is happening to you and how you can fix it. They cannot change your benefits in any way without sending you a written notice! 6. Stick up for yourself -If there is a good reason why you cannot fix the problem, write down the reason and mail or give them a note. You cannot be punished for things that you do if you can prove you have "good cause" or a good reason. You have to let them know. 7. Appeal the decision -If the caseworker or supervisor does not accept your reason, file an appeal. Make sure you do this in writing, by signing the back of your notice within 30 days of the date on the notice. You have up to 30 days to file an appeal, but if you file your appeal within 10 days of the date on the notice your benefits will not stop. See page 33 to learn more about appeals. Also, you can call the Welfare Justice Project and we will help you understand the appeal process.