10 Frequently Asked Question about Food Stamps
Do I have to pay my Food Stamps back?
No, unless the following occurs:
Whenever a household is issued more food stamps benefits than they are entitled to receive, the county is required to collect the extra benefits. Client error over issuances occurs when a household fails to report changes, such as income and household composition. Administrative over issuance occur when the eligibility worker failed to take action on a case in a timely manner. Repayment agreements are sent to the client as to how they would like to repay the over issuance. This can be achieved through an allotment reduction or in a lump sum payment.
Why can’t SSI folks receive Food Stamps?
California includes an additional cash payment (SSP to SSI individuals in lieu of food stamps.
What can you NOT buy with Food Stamps?
Any nonfood items, such as pet foods, soaps, paper products and household supplies, grooming items, toothpaste, cosmetics, alcohol and tobacco.
Can you receive food stamps if you are working?
Yes! There are Gross and Net income test limits for each household. The Gross income test limit is 130 % of the federal poverty level. Household income must be at or below the maximum level for the household size. Net income is the equal to 100% of the federal poverty level. If the household is under the gross income limit then the household’s net income must be at or below the maximum level for the household size. Net income is the remaining countable income after allowable deductions have been applied to the budget such as housing, utilities, medical expenses and earned income.
Food Stamp Income Guidelines for
October 1, 2007 - September 30, 2008
Household Size |
Gross Monthly Income Limit |
1 |
$1,107 |
2 |
$1,484 |
3 |
$1,861 |
4 |
$2,238 |
5 |
$2,615 |
6 |
$2,992 |
+1 |
+$377 |
If a child is born in the United States to undocumented immigrant can you qualify for food stamps?
Yes, undocumented individuals are not eligible to receive food stamp benefits. The child however is eligible. A portion of the undocumented individual income and resources are used in determining the child’s eligibility.
You must be a legal resident to receive food stamp?
Yes.
Illegal aliens are not eligible for food stamps but their children are if the child is a US citizen.
Correct. Undocumented individuals are not food stamp eligible but their citizen children are.
A single person with no kids may apply for food stamps?
Yes, it is not necessary to have children to be eligible for food stamps.
You can own a car and still be eligible for food stamps?
Yes, vehicles are now exempt in the resource determination.
Clients who have been in jail for drug charges are not eligible for food stamps?
Individuals who have been CONVICTED of possession and or use are potentially Food Stamp eligible. If the conviction was for distribution/sale an individual is not eligible to benefits.
Check the USDA website to see if you are eligible for food stamp benefits.
QUESTIONS?
If you have questions or need more information about the Food Stamp Program, please call Barbara Stanley at the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, toll free (800) 870-FOOD extension 232 or email her at bstanley@foodbankccs.org. |
