Decisions and actions
Separate the decision from the explanation
Capture the exact service denied, date, official case reference, notice, stated rule, deadline and responsible agency. Save a copy of the original decision and any changing portal messages. Avoid attributing a decision to AI without evidence of the actual process. Record immediate impact—such as a missed prescription or denied food allocation—without publicly posting identity documents.
Write down: Ask for the applicable rule, written notice and available human reconsideration process.
Build a minimal, reliable evidence packet
Include the minimum documents necessary to show identity, eligibility or prior approval, depending on the provider’s published requirements. Keep originals secure and control who receives copies. Use official appeal or correction routes, qualified legal aid and responsible support organizations. Consider accessibility, language assistance and urgent medical escalation when a denial threatens health.
Write down: Maintain a chronological log of submissions, receipts and responses, with a clear next deadline.
Protect privacy and avoid risky shortcuts
Do not try to defeat identity systems, alter records or spread unverified accusations. A mutual-aid group should not collect political profiles or publish a map of people seeking help. Use direct channels to challenge decisions, and distinguish observed administrative harm from hypotheses about why it occurred. Public testimony should be anonymized and voluntary.
Write down: Define the remedy requested: restore service, correct a record, provide a review or refer the person to an authorized alternative.
Evidence and report sections
These sources explain plausible failure mechanisms and the limits of different responses. They do not establish that the scenario is occurring.
- Outside-agents report: records and exclusion — relevant section
- Revised research report: records and exclusion — relevant section
- Outside-agents report: income and household — relevant section
- Revised research report: income and household — relevant section
Browse all 20 complete scenario reports · Review the ten foundational readiness guides
Frequently asked questions
Does an algorithmic denial prove intentional targeting?
No. The cause requires evidence. Incorrect data, rules, implementation errors and deliberate discrimination are different possibilities with different remedies.
Should I upload rejection letters to public forums?
Usually no. They may contain identifiers and medical or financial details. Prefer private official and qualified assistance channels.
Related practical information
Read the foundational guide · Continuity Desk printable worksheets · Seven decision guides
Editorial method: synthesis of owner-provided conditional reports and the Civilian Survival During Total Economic Exclusion field guide. Specific recommendations require local professional guidance when risks are immediate. Updated 2026-10-09.