Colorado Kinship Benefits Renewal and Redetermination

Benefits Don't Renew Themselves

Getting approved for Colorado Works, SNAP, or Medicaid is only half the work. Each program requires periodic renewal — called recertification or redetermination — and missing the deadline is one of the most common reasons kinship caregivers lose benefits they still qualify for.

The timing varies by program, and the county usually sends renewal paperwork by mail. If that mail gets lost, forwarded to an old address, or buried in a stack, benefits can be cut without warning.

Colorado Works: Every 6 Months

Colorado Works cash assistance is certified in 6-month budget periods. Before the end of each period, the county sends a Redetermination of Eligibility (RRR) packet. You need to complete and return it — confirming that the child still lives with you, that household circumstances haven't changed materially, and updating any income information.

For child-only cases, the renewal is usually straightforward since your income isn't part of the calculation. But the packet still needs to come back on time.

SNAP: 6 or 12 Months

SNAP certification periods are typically 6 or 12 months, depending on your household circumstances. The county mails a recertification form before the end of your period. If it's not returned, benefits stop — even if you still qualify.

Between renewals, you must report household changes within 10 days: a parent moving back into the home, a child leaving your care, income increases above the reporting threshold, or a change of address. Moving between Colorado counties requires a case transfer, but your benefits shouldn't be terminated just because you moved within the state.

Health First Colorado / CHP+: 12-Month Continuous Eligibility

Children's Medicaid and CHP+ come with 12-month continuous eligibility, which means coverage stays active for a full year regardless of minor income fluctuations. This is the most forgiving renewal cycle of the bunch.

At the end of 12 months, the county sends a renewal form. If you don't respond, coverage can lapse — even though the child may still qualify.

What to Do When You Get a Notice of Action

If the county decides to reduce, suspend, or terminate benefits, they must send a written Notice of Action (NOA) at least 11 calendar days before the change takes effect.

If you disagree with the action, file a dispute and request an administrative hearing within that 11-day window. When you do, benefits must continue at the current level until the dispute is resolved. Be aware that if the hearing upholds the county's decision, you may owe back the benefits paid during the appeal period.

The absolute deadline to request a fair hearing is 90 calendar days from the date on the Notice of Action, for Colorado Works, SNAP, and Medicaid.

Three Things That Prevent Most Lapses

1. Mark your renewal dates the day you're approved. Set a calendar reminder two weeks before each recertification is due.
2. Keep your address current with the county. If you move, notify them within 10 days. A renewal packet sent to an old address won't reach you.
3. Respond to every piece of county mail, even if it looks routine. A "request for information" left unanswered can trigger a closure.

For printable tracking tools and the full renewal calendar for every Colorado kinship benefit program, see our Colorado Kinship Financial Help guide.

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