441—7.6 (17A) Informing persons of their rights.
	 7.6(1) Written and oral notification. The department shall advise each applicant and recipient of the right to appeal any adverse decision affecting the person’s status.
	  a.   	 Written notification of the following shall be given at the time of application and at the time of any agency action affecting the claim for assistance:
	 (1) 	 The right to request a hearing.
	 (2) 	 The procedure for requesting a hearing.
	 (3) 	 The right to be represented by others at the hearing unless otherwise specified by statute or federal regulation.
	 (4) 	 Provisions, if any, for payment of legal fees by the department.
	  b.   	 Written notification shall be given on the application form and on all notices of decisions. Oral explanation shall also be given regarding the policy on appeals during the application process and at the time of any contemplated action by the agency when the need for an explanation is indicated.
	  c.   	 Persons not familiar with English shall be provided a translation into the language understood by them in written form or orally. Appellants are entitled to have an interpreter present during appeal hearings. In all cases when a person is illiterate or semiliterate, the person shall be advised of each right to the satisfaction of the person’s understanding.
	 7.6(2) Representation. All persons shall be advised that they may be represented at hearings by others, including legal counsel, relatives, friends, or any other spokesperson of choice, unless otherwise specified by statute or federal regulations. The agency shall advise the persons of any legal services which may be available and assist in securing the services if the persons desire.