Photo: 1000 words (Shutterstock)
Starting October 1, SNAP monthly food aid will increase by an average of $ 36 per person, the largest increase in the program’s 46-year history. Here’s what you need to know to qualify for increased food aid – which you can get as a college student too.
Everyone in the SNAP program can get additional help
The hike is the result of the revision of the Ministry of Agriculture Economical nutrition planwho have favourited the list of foods the government uses to estimate the minimal cost of a nutritious diet. Other than inflation adjustments, the number has not increased since 1962.
On average, the monthly benefits offer an additional $ 36 on top of the $ 121 per person per person prior to the pandemic – a jump of 25% per month. This change is also coming in a timely manner, as COVID relief subsidies that 15% added to the SNAP benefits are expected to end in October while the new permanent increases go into effect.
How do I qualify for SNAP Food Aid?
Eligibility for SNAP benefit is based on a few factors related to household expenses, but in general must be your net income at or below the poverty line.
G / O Media can receive a commission
Great choice for back to school!
Long battery life perfect for students.
Students ages 18-49 who are enrolled in college at least half the time are not eligible for SNAP. However, there are some exceptions, such as: B. if you work 20 hours as a student or have a physical or mental disability. More details on exceptions can be found here.
In addition, these additional exceptions still apply within the framework of the COVID aid legislation:
- You are a student who is entitled to take part in state or federally funded work studies during the regular school year. (Your college or university will determine whether you are eligible for a job study.)
- You are a student who is a. Has Expected family contribution (EFC) Score of zero in the current academic year. Students receive an EFC after applying for the grant.
When you qualify, your SNAP benefit will be mailed to you electronic debit cards (EBT), which can be used nationwide at more than 238,000 authorized dealers.
For more information on eligibility requirements and how SNAP awards are calculated, see Click here. To apply, visit your government agency’s website, which you can find here.
