I had the same issue when I attempted to take the fuel filter hose off the filter. The part that connects the fuel line to the filter is a snap fitting. I did not know this at the time and purchased two different kinds of fuel filter hose diconnect tools. The little disconnect tools did not work and in my frustration my buddy used pliers to pull the hose off the filter. the snap fitting still fits on the filter as intended but has a tendency to pull apart when ice builds up around the fitting. (Dangerous Fire Hazard)
I called the dealership and asked them if it was ok to cut the hose and make an extension with a new fitting, but they warned me against the proceedure and wanted me to buy all new fuel lines from the tank forward.
I do not have the money to perform this replacement at the time. So I used the pliers to squish the fitting back into shape so it will fit back on the filter. I have had only two incidents after this quick fix where the hose seperated from the filter. I smelled a strong odor of fuel both times and pulled over imediatly and turned off the engine.
I reached in under the hood and fit the connector back onto the filter snuggly. (I do not recommend anything that may pose bodily harm or risk of fire.)
After looking at the fuel line leading to the filter I have also confirmed that this line is way too short to reach the filter from the factory. There are fuel line replacement parts online and I have also seen extensions for rerouting fuel line on project vehicles.
I have also thought of upgrading to a better fuel filter that is reusable or with a window and using the extension method to better access the line itself. But budget restraints and weather have me waiting for the opportunity. Let us know what you have choosen to do if you go forward with your fix. Thanks.