How the Food Stamp Program Works
The food stamp program, renamed SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service. SNAP is not intended to cover a household's full grocery needs. The USDA assumes the applicant will devote 30 percent of his household income to food purchases. SNAP was created to help fill the gaps when income is not adequate.
Eligibility and Benefits
General eligibility guidelines and benefits are:
One-person household: maximum gross income, $1,127; monthly benefit, $200
Two-person household: maximum gross income, $1,517; monthly benefit, $367
Three-person household: maximum gross income, $1,907; monthly benefit, $526
Four-person household: maximum gross income, $2,297; monthly benefit, $668
Five-person household: maximum gross income, $2,687; monthly benefit, $793
Six-person household: maximum gross income, $3,077; monthly benefit, $952
Seven-person household: maximum gross income, $3,467; monthly benefit, $1,052
Eight-person household: maximum gross income $3857; monthly benefit, $1,202
The income requirement is less strict if an elderly or disabled person lives in the household. Visit SNAP's qualification website for more specific information (see Resources).
How to Apply
You can apply for food benefits in person or, in most states, online (see Resources). The toll-free number to find a SNAP office is 1-800-221-5689. Complete and submit the application and schedule an interview.
The Interview
Documents you will need for the interview are a driver's license or state identification card, pay stubs, birth certificate, letters from the federal government detailing any benefits you receive, rental or mortgage agreement that shows your address, utility bills and canceled checks for day care or child support payments. If you're older than 60 years of age or have a disability, you will also need your medical bills. At the interview, ask the SNAP worker to make copies so you can keep your originals. If you are unable to go to the interview, ask to do it over the phone or ask whether you can send someone to represent you.
If Approved
If approved, your grocery money will be loaded onto a card similar to an ATM or debit card. Your card will arrive within 30 days, but tell your SNAP worker whether you need it sooner. In emergencies, they can get help to you in one to two days. Your card can be used for breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables, meat, fish, poultry and dairy.
If Not Approved
If you believe you meet the requirements, but were not approved, ask for the SNAP worker's boss or ask for a "fair hearing." This appeal is free, and you have the right to ask why you were not approved.
0 komentar:
Posting Komentar