How do I Write a Letter Appealing Grant Denial?

You can appeal a grant denial if you believe the determination is wrong.

The process for applying for grants and funding is lengthy, involving a series of processes and paperwork. Even if you follow proper protocol and verify all information contained in a grant application is correct, your application can still get denied. If this occurs, and you are certain this result is wrong or the result of a simple clerical or omission error, you can appeal through following several steps.

Things You'll Need

• Original grant application, including instructions and terms
• Completed grant application
• Contact information for organization or authority that reviewed the application

Instructions

1. Read through the original grant application. Make a copy of the original and use the copy to highlight sections of the document that outlined all information requests and grant guidelines.

2. Read through your completed grant application again to verify that you included copies of all relevant and required information. For example, if the application required copies of tax returns, make sure you submitted returns that had no missing pages or information. Ensure that you filled out all information accurately and completely. Make a list of everything you responded to and make the list as thorough as possible.

3. Write a formal letter of appeal to the agency, organization or authority that sent the denial. Address it to the name of the official who sent the denial. Specifically state that you are appealing the denial and list the reasons why. Include items such as 'I qualify for the grant based on the grant recipient parameters outlined in your grant application. Those state the grant recipient must be a U.S. citizen and have an income less than $15,000 per year.' Make the the letter as specific as possible.

4. Request in your letter either a written response or a meeting to discuss the reasons why your grant was denied. Ask for a response in 10 to 15 business days. Include a copy of your original grant application and all supporting documentation. Keep a copy of the appeal letter to send to additional contacts at the organization, if necessary.

5. Follow up with a second letter requesting a review of your application and a re-determination of your case 15 days after sending your first letter, if you have not received a response. Make sure to include a copy of your first grant appeal letter so the decision maker has all pertinent information.

6. Respond to all requests in a timely manner. Pursue the matter until the grant issuing authority specifically tells you to stop pursuing the appeal.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep appeal letters professional, and avoid using slang or inappropriate language.

• Do not make threats.

References

• Universal Service Administrative Company: Appeals Guidelines
• FEMA: FEMA Denial Letter May Not Be The Last Word