Food Stamp Eligibility & Amounts
Food stamps are vouchers for low-income individuals and families to purchase groceries and food-bearing plants. To receive food stamps, a person must apply to the agency in his state that issues them. Before approval, the applicant must provide proof of his financial situation. The agency will use this information to determine the person's eligibility and the amount of benefits he can receive.
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Eligibility
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A food stamp applicant's income and assets are the main factors for determining eligibility. Rather than personal income, state agencies will look at the total income of the applicant's household. In addition, some states will consider the value of the household assets. If the household makes too much money or has too many assets, it may be ineligible to receive food stamps.
Size of Benefits
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If a household receives food stamps, the amount of the vouchers will depend on the number of people and the status of individual members. For example, in some states, households with children receive more food stamp assistance than households without kids. In all cases, households with disabled and elderly people receive more, as well. In general, the more people in a household, the more food stamp money it receives.
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Variables
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There are a number of variables in determining how much a household can receive in food stamps. While some states offer the same amount to everyone who qualifies, others base the benefits on the household's income. In addition, having special expenses, such as medical bills, may increase the amount of money the household receives.
Considerations
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Although food stamps are part of a federal program, each state individually administers its food stamp aid. This means that both the eligibility criteria and the amount of money that an individual can receive in benefits will vary. The only way an individual can determine how much in benefits he can receive is by contacting his state's local food stamp agency.
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