Most benefits and utility calls go better when the important facts are already on one sheet of paper. Write down the program or company name, the deadline, the account or case number if you have one, and the safest way someone can reply.
Keep the notice, bill, denial, renewal letter, portal message, or upload screen nearby. Ask what is missing, where to send it, how to confirm it was received, and who you spoke with.
If the hard part is a login, scan, upload, email, or PDF, say that clearly. That may be a technology problem before it is a benefits problem, and OpenACAI may be able to help you sort the next step.