New Jersey Food Stamp Requirements
New Jersey, like all states, participates in the federal food stamp program. This program gives financial assistance to low-income families. New Jersey takes both income and family size into account when determining eligibility for food stamps. Potential applicants may use an online calculator to determine whether they are likely to be eligible for food stamps. People may apply online or in person.
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Gross Income Requirement
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To qualify for food stamps in New Jersey, your gross income must be at least 185 percent below the federal poverty line. The more people who are in your family, the higher your gross income may be. Gross income limits for 2010 were between $1,174 and $4,010 depending on the size of your family.
Deductions from Gross Income
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Food stamp eligibility is determined using net income levels if a family's gross income is less than the limit. As of 2010, families may deduct 20 percent of earned income from the family's total gross income, a standard deduction per month depending on family size, dependent care expenses if needed for the parent to work, job training or school, medical expenses for elderly or disabled family members, child support obligations and costs of maintaining the home up to a limit set by New Jersey.
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How to Apply
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Applications require personal information, including the applicant's social security number, income and expenses, and the names and social security numbers, income and expenses of all persons residing in the applicant's household. After submitting an application, the applicant must interview with a case worker either in the country Social Services office or over the telephone. If approved, benefits start within 30 days of submitting the application.
Reporting Changes
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After a person is approved for food stamps, he must report changes in his gross income every six months. However, if the change in income puts the gross income over the income limit for his family size, he must inform the county Social Services office within 10 days of the change. He must also report any change in job situation or additional income sources as soon as possible. If income goes down, he may ask the Social Services office to re-evaluate the amount of benefits he is entitled to.
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