Who is eligible to receive SNAP benefits?
A) The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, is a federal program that provides assistance to low-income individuals and families to purchase food. To be eligible for SNAP benefits, individuals and households must meet certain criteria, including:
- Income: SNAP has income eligibility requirements, which are based on the household size and gross monthly income. In general, households must have a gross monthly income at or below 130% of the federal poverty level to be eligible. Some households with higher incomes may also be eligible, depending on their expenses and other factors.
- Citizenship and residency: To be eligible for SNAP, individuals must be U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. They must also live in the state where they are applying for benefits.
- Work requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) are required to meet certain work requirements to be eligible for SNAP benefits. They must work at least 20 hours per week, participate in a work program, or meet certain exemptions.
- Other factors: SNAP eligibility may also depend on other factors, such as household expenses and resources, such as bank accounts, vehicles, and property.
It’s important to note that eligibility rules may vary by state, so it’s best to check with your state’s SNAP program for specific information on eligibility criteria.
According to USDA Government Website, those applying for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program (formally known as Food Stamp) must meet income test requirements. Unless all members are receiving TANF, SSI, or in some places general assistance.
Most households applying for (Food Stamp) TANF benefits must meet both the gross and net income tests, but a household with an elderly person or a person who is already receiving certain types of disability payments only has to meet the net income test.