You can request a fair hearing by filling out an online Fair Hearing Request form available at www.mass.gov/fair-hearing-unit.  You can also request a fair hearing by writing a letter to the fair hearing unit and sending it by mail, fax, or email. You also must send a copy of the letter to the Area Office that made the decision. I recommend having a certified copy as well to make sure there is no dispute.  You need to look at the deadlines and request the hearing within thirty (30) calendar days of the decision that you are appealing.

You are entitled to provide the appeal within thirty (30) days of the date that you received the written notice of its decision but would recommend sending in the request as soon as possible so there are not any issues about DCF trying to get passed saying that you waived your ability to request that fair hearing.