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MS 0485 (1) Volume 1 - General Administration MS 0485 - R. 6/1/21 - OMTL-577 Program Participation Pending the Hearing – IM Programs A. [When the individual requests a hearing within 10 days of the date on the timely notice, the benefits remain reduced or inactive pending a hearing decision unless the individual specifically requests that the benefits, including supportive services, continue. Explain to the individual that if the Agency's decision is upheld, any overpayments resulting from continuation of benefits will have to be repaid. If the request is received within 20 days of the date of the timely notice, and the individual claims good cause for not reporting within 10 days, determine if the reason for the delay meets the following good cause criteria: 1. The individual was away from home during the entire timely notice period; 2. The individual was unable to read or comprehend the timely notice and the right to request a fair hearing; 3. The individual moved, which resulted in a delay in receiving or failure to receive the timely notice; 4. The individual had a serious illness; or 5. The delay was no fault of the individual. If good cause is determined and the individual requests continuation of benefits, reinstate the case within five work days. Accept the individual's statement for good cause unless there is reason to doubt. B. If the case is active and benefits are reduced and the individual requests a hearing within 10 days of the date on the timely notice, benefits remain reduced unless the individual specifically requests benefits continue. If the individual requests benefits continue, reinstate benefits within five work days at the level prior to the timely notice. C. If benefits are discontinued and the individual, within 10 days of the date on the timely notice, requests a hearing and continuation of benefits:] 1. Complete a Request for Hearing, Appeal or Withdrawal through Worker Portal by accessing the Hearing tab at the top of the navigation page. 2. If reason for discontinuance is "failure to keep recertification interview," complete a recertification. 3. [For all other reasons for discontinuance, annotate case notes in Worker Portal.]