Do I need a hearing?
You may not. You can resolve some issues without a hearing.
Contact the Appeals Coordinator to see if your case may be resolved without a hearing.
You can call the DSHS WA Cares program at 844-227-3492.
How can I request a hearing?
In most cases, you can request a hearing by sending a written request to OAH or by calling OAH at 800-583-8271. You may also fill out the online request for hearing form on the OAH website:
Request for hearing beneficiary
If you disagree with a decision in the DSHS WA Cares notice, read it carefully. It has instructions on how to request a hearing.
It is your responsibility to make sure you request a hearing on time. See WAC 388-116-5030 for appeal deadlines. If you do not request a hearing on time, you could lose your right to a hearing.
Do I have a Prehearing Conference (PHC) or a hearing?
This information can be found on the notice OAH sends you. In the top, right corner it will say “Notice of Prehearing Conference” or “Notice of Hearing.” This notice also gives you the date and time and how to participate in the prehearing conference or hearing.
Can I change the hearing date?
In some cases, you may be able to change the hearing date if you have a good reason.
Before calling OAH, you should call the Appeals Coordinator listed on the Notice of Hearing. Do this as soon as possible.
After you contact the Appeals Coordinator, call OAH to make your request at 800-583-8271. The judge will decide if the date or time will be changed. Unless you are notified the date is changed, you still need to appear and be prepared for your hearing. If the date or time is changed, you will receive another written notice with the new date and time.
What if I want to cancel my hearing?
You can cancel your hearing (withdraw your request for hearing) by sending a written request by fax or mail or by calling OAH at 800-583-8271.
Your written request must include:
- A Docket number or registration number or WA Cares ID number
- State that you want to cancel the hearing, you may include a reason
- Print (type) your full name at the end, which counts as your signature
You cannot sign the written withdrawal request for a party age 18 or over unless you are the appellant’s authorized representative.
Please call OAH at 800-583-8271 if you have questions.
You may also contact the Appeals Coordinator for assistance in completing your withdrawal request. The Appeals Coordinator cannot cancel the hearing but they can provide assistance.
Fax numbers for OAH:
- Olympia 360-586-6563
- Spokane Valley 509-456-3980
What if I move?
Tell OAH immediately if your address or phone number changes. OAH mails you important information about your case, so it is important you update your information.
Other state agencies do not tell OAH if you update your address or phone number. Please call OAH at 800-583-8271 to update your address or phone number. If you have a docket number, please have it ready.
You should also update your contact information with the DSHS WA Cares program at 844-227-3492.
What if I lost or never received my paperwork?
If you have not received a notice from OAH with the date and time of your hearing or prehearing conference, please call OAH at 800-583-8271.
If you have not received the paperwork from the DSHS WA Cares program (exhibit packet), please contact the Appeals Coordinator. You can find their contact information on your Notice of Hearing or Notice of Prehearing Conference.
What if I need an interpreter?
If you want an interpreter, call OAH as soon as possible. OAH will pay for the interpreter. Family members and friends cannot be your interpreter at the hearing.
For a free oral translation of OAH documents call 800-583-8271.
What if I have a disability and require an accommodation?
If you need an accommodation, use this Accommodation Request or call OAH as soon as possible at (800) 583-8271.
You can find more information here.
Can I have someone represent me?
While most people represent themselves, you can be represented by an attorney, paralegal, friend, family member, or a community advocate. Your representative must be age 18 or older. The state does not pay for your representative.
You must let OAH know if someone is going to represent you. Documents may be required to show that you have given permission to have someone represent you (Power of Attorney (POA), Proof of Guardianship).
Contact OAH at 800-583-8271 if you have a representative.
If your representative is an attorney, they should file a Notice of Appearance with the Office of Administrative Hearings.
Can I reapply for benefits?
If your benefits have been denied or terminated by the DSHS WA Cares program, you may reapply at any time. Your hearing with OAH should not affect your new application. Contact your Appeals Coordinator for more information.
What if I don't know my hearing date?
If you don’t know your hearing date, please call OAH at 800-583-8271.