The Virginia SUN Bucks program will return in 2025. Check back at a later
time for information about the 2025 application period and eligibility
requirements.
Appeal Process
Q.
If my child is denied Virginia SUN Bucks, how can I appeal the
decision?
A.
If you disagree with a denial in your Virginia SUN Bucks case, you have
the right to appeal and request a fair hearing. A fair hearing means
that an official will review the facts of your case in a fair and
objective manner as required by law.
The procedures for appeals and fair hearings related to Virginia SUN Bucks eligibility will generally follow the current appeal and fair hearing procedures for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). Hearing procedures will provide an opportunity for families to appeal an eligibility determination made by VDSS and give VDSS an opportunity to challenge the continued eligibility of the child.
To appeal your Virginia SUN Bucks denial decision and request a fair hearing, you may start the appeal and fair hearing process either in writing or by phone.
All written requests for appeals may be submitted by mail to the following address by Dec. 1, 2024:
Virginia SUN Bucks Appeals c/o Benefit Programs
Virginia Department of Social Services
5600 Cox Road
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Individuals may also request a Virginia SUN Bucks appeal by calling 804-726-7000 by Dec. 1, 2024.
The procedures for appeals and fair hearings related to Virginia SUN Bucks eligibility will generally follow the current appeal and fair hearing procedures for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). Hearing procedures will provide an opportunity for families to appeal an eligibility determination made by VDSS and give VDSS an opportunity to challenge the continued eligibility of the child.
To appeal your Virginia SUN Bucks denial decision and request a fair hearing, you may start the appeal and fair hearing process either in writing or by phone.
All written requests for appeals may be submitted by mail to the following address by Dec. 1, 2024:
Virginia SUN Bucks Appeals c/o Benefit Programs
Virginia Department of Social Services
5600 Cox Road
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Individuals may also request a Virginia SUN Bucks appeal by calling 804-726-7000 by Dec. 1, 2024.
Q.
What do I need for my request to appeal?
A.
You need to include information that would allow us to identify and
contact you regarding your request, including your case number on the
denial notice. Also include what you are appealing and why you believe
the denial determination is in error.
Q.
What takes place in the Virginia SUN Bucks appeal and fair hearing
process?
A.
The first step is to hold a virtual or phone pre-hearing meeting. In the
pre-hearing meeting, we will discuss the reason for the denial, and you
can explain why you think you are eligible for Virginia SUN Bucks. At
the meeting, you may be represented by an authorized representative,
legal counsel, relative or friend. Your failure to request or
participate in a pre-hearing meeting has no effect on your right to
appeal and have a fair hearing, or on your right to continued
participation.
If you want to continue the process after the pre-hearing meeting, then your information is forwarded to VDSS Appeals and Fair Hearings, who will ensure that:
If you want to continue the process after the pre-hearing meeting, then your information is forwarded to VDSS Appeals and Fair Hearings, who will ensure that:
- The fair hearing will be held quickly and easily, and you will be given adequate notice about the time and place of the hearing, which is usually conducted virtually by phone or video conference.
- The hearing will be conducted, and the decision made, by a hearing official who did not participate in making the initial decision to deny benefits or in any previously held conference.
-
Prior to and during the fair hearing, you can:
- Be helped or represented by an attorney or other person.
- Examine, before and during the hearing, any documents and records presented to support the decision under appeal.
- Present verbal evidence or documents supporting your position without unnecessary interference.
- Question or deny any testimony or other evidence and confront and cross-examine any opposing witnesses.
Q.
Can I get free legal help?
A.
You may be able to get free legal help from Virginia Legal Aid by
calling
866-534-5243 or
visiting
www.valegalaid.org
for more information.
