On March 15, 2010, the DC Department of Human Services will expand eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Food Stamp) Benefits.
Currently most Food Stamp applicants must have income below 130% of Federal Poverty Level (FPL), about $1,600 a month for two persons, and $2,400 for four persons. With the change, District residents with gross income up to 200% of FPL may be able to get Food Stamp benefits. A couple may have up to $2,429 in gross income and be eligible for benefits. A four person family may have up to $3,675 of monthly gross income.
Special households, such as those that only include elderly or disabled persons, may still be able to get Food Stamps even if their income is more than 200% of FPL. As part of this change, most applicants will not need to meet a net income limit either. The increase in the gross income limit and the removal of the net income limit for most households will allow many households to receive Food Stamps who would previously be ineligible. These changes will particularly help families with high housing costs and working applicants who have high dependent care costs for children or adults in their care.
Additionally, households eligible under these new rules will not be subject to limits on their resources and assets. With the implementation of these changes, the District hopes to reduce the instances of food insecurity for District residents and to help our residents stretch their household budgets in these difficult times.
For more information on these changes or to find out how you may apply for Food Stamp benefits, please call DHS Income Maintenance Administration Customer Service on (202) 724-5506.