Wisconsin Works (W-2)
Fact Finding Review
Wisconsin Works (W-2) provides an expedited Fact Finding Review to resolve disputes for applicants/participants who believe the W-2 agency made an incorrect decision regarding any component of W-2. This includes all W-2 services and Emergency Assistance. W-2 cases DO NOT receive continued benefits pending the Fact Finding decision.
W-2 Agency Fact Finding Review
A Fact Finding Review may be requested by writing to the W-2 agency. The W-2 agency must receive the written request within 45 days from the date of the CARES decision notice, or within 45 days from the effective date on the CARES notice, whichever is later. The W-2 agency will schedule a Fact Finding Review within eight days of receiving the request. W-2 payments will not continue pending the Fact Finding decision.
The Fact Finding Review is an informal meeting to help resolve issues regarding the W-2 agency’s decision. An impartial reviewer, called the Fact Finder, will:
- Meet with both the applicant/participant and an agency representative;
- Listen to each side;
- Review the information; and
- Give a written decision based on state law and W-2 policies.
A representative for the applicant/participant may be chosen to attend the Fact Finding Review. Any written documentation that may support the claim should be provided. The fact finder will issue a written decision within five (5) work days after the Fact Finding Review date.
The W-2 agency will deny a Fact Finding request if any of the following occurs:
- The request for a Fact Finding Review is not received within the 45 day timeline;
- The request is withdrawn in writing;
- The applicant/participant or representative fails to appear in person at the scheduled Fact Finding Review without good cause.
If there is disagreement with the W-2 agency’s Fact Finding Decision, a second level Departmental Review may be requested by writing to the Department of Administration, Division of Hearings and Appeals (DHA). The written request must be received by DHA within 21 days from the Fact Finding Notice of Decision date. The W-2 Agency Fact Finding Review must be completed to request a Departmental Review.
If you disagree with a Notice of Decision regarding Child Care Assistance, Food Stamps or Medicaid benefits, a separate request for a Fair Hearing with the Department of Administration, Division of Hearings and Appeals (DHA) must be filed.
For W-2 Fact Finding and Departmental Review policy, see the W-2 Manual, Chapter 19.