SNAP: Qualifications, Requirements, and How Settlements Affect Benefits

SNAP: An Overview

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the largest anti-hunger program in America. Based on your income and family size, SNAP can provide individuals with monthly funding to purchase groceries. Individuals can buy the following with SNAP:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, fish, and poultry
• Dairy products
• Bread
• Cereals
• Snacks
• Seeds and plants

You cannot use SNAP to purchase the following: 

• Alcohol
• Tobacco
• Pet food
• Cleaning supplies
• Hygiene items
• vitamins
• Medicine

How to Know If You Qualify for SNAP

To be eligible for SNAP benefits, you must meet three of the following criteria:

• Gross monthly income – individuals must be at or below 130% of the poverty line
• Net income – after deductions, must be at or below the poverty line
• Assets – an individual’s assets must fall below certain limits.

SNAP: Work Requirements

Between the ages of 16 and 59, an individual who can work must qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to receive benefits. “These requirements include registering for work, participating in SNAP Employment and training, taking a job if offered, and not voluntarily quitting a job or reducing your work hours below 30 hours a week without a good reason.” 

An individual is excused from the general work requirements for the following reasons: 

• Working at least 30 hours a week
• Taking care of a child under the age of 6
• Having a physical or mental limitation that stops you from being able to work
• Alcohol and drug programs
• Studying in school at least half-time

Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWD) are individuals between the ages of 18 and 54 who can work. Individuals can meet the ABAWD work requirements by doing any one of the following: 

• Working at least 80 hours a month
• Participate in a work program for at least 80 hours a month
• A combination of the two for at least 80 hours a month total

Can a Personal Injury Settlement Affect Your Food Stamps?

A personal injury settlement could affect your food stamps, as a settlement is considered income by SNAP. Specific types of settlements that could count against your food stamps include the following: 

• Lost wages
• Punitive damages
• Money for emotional distress

It is essential to discuss this with a personal injury attorney to ensure that you structure your settlement so that it doesn’t affect your eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. An experienced attorney can navigate the challenges that come with SNAP eligibility to ensure you get the highest chances to possibly qualify. 

How KAASS LAW Can Help

At KAASS LAW, we understand how personal injury settlements can impact SNAP benefits and eligibility. Our experienced attorneys work closely with clients to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve when they need it the most. We are here to help you get justice without endangering your access to food assistance. 

Conclusion

Although a personal injury settlement can affect your SNAP benefits, it doesn’t always have to. Understanding your rights and taking legal action is essential, and that’s where KAASS LAW comes in. Contact KAASS LAW today for a confidential consultation to discuss your options.