101.01 Individual Rights SR 01-17, 06/01 (FSM-A)

. Application - An individual has the right to apply for assistance and to have a timely eligibility decision made on the application.

. Authorized Representative - Individuals may choose any adult, regardless of household membership or relationship, to assist them at application, recertification and during the certification period with any aspect of the eligibility, application, and Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) process or with fulfilling household responsibilities.

. Case Decisions - Individuals have the right to be notified of the outcome of all eligibility decisions and of any changes which affect the amount of their benefits or their level of eligibility.

. Civil Rights - The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) does not discriminate against individuals because of their race, creed, color, sex, age, political affiliation or beliefs, religion, national origin, or handicap. See the General Manual, Item 32, Civil Rights /Nondiscrimination.

. Complaints and Fair Hearings - Individuals have the right to request a review of their circumstances and/or a fair hearing when they are dissatisfied with any action or inaction by DHHS which affects their participation in any of DHHS's programs. See the General Manual, Item 31, Complaints and Fair Hearings.

. Confidentiality - Information concerning individuals is confidential. Use or disclosure of information in DHHS files is limited to persons directly involved in administration or enforcement of the Department's programs, or as otherwise permitted by policy, or federal or state laws. See the General Manual, Safeguarding of Information.

. Notification of Requirements - Individuals have the right to be notified of the eligibility requirements they must comply with, and of the actions the Department must take if the individual does not comply.