Food Stamp Eligibility Expanded for Families with Child Care Expenses

 
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Food Stamp Eligibility Expanded for Families with Child Care Expenses

November 10, 2009

Food Stamp Eligibility Expanded for Families with Child Care Expenses

Higher income guidelines mean that more families with dependent care expenses are now eligible for food stamps. If you don’t get food stamps now, you may qualify even if you were denied in the past. 

Q What are the new income guidelines?

If your gross income (before taxes and deductions) is at or below the amounts listed below and you have child or dependent care costs, you may qualify for food stamp benefits,

Gross Income Limit for Households with Dependent Care Costs (as of 10/1/2009)

Household Size

 2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Monthly Income

$2,428

$3,052

$3,675

$4,298

$4,922

$5,545

$6,168

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q What “counts” as an expense? Child or Adult Care

All “out of pocket” expenses that you incur for the care of a child under 18 or a disabled adult so that you can work, look for work, or att end school or a training program that prepares you for work.  This includes co-payments if you receive a child care subsidy.

Out-of-School Activities:  Any supervised activity, including before and after school for any child under 18 including school vacation, summer camps, YMCA, and Boys/Girls Club fees.                                                      

Q Is there a limit or cap on the expenses I can claim?

Not anymore!  Effective 10/1/2008, you can claim the full amount of costs you pay.

Q How do I apply for food stamps?

It’s easy. Applications are available on line at www.otda.state.ny.us/main/foodstamps

You can also call 1-800-342-3009 for more information about how and where to apply, or visit https://www.mybenefits.ny.gov

After you apply for food stamps, you’ll need to be interviewed.  Most counties can interview you by telephone, so that you don’t have to take time off from work to travel to the food stamp office.

Q Where can I get more information about food stamps?

For more information about how and where to apply for food stamps, call 1-800-342-3009 or go to www.otda.state.ny.us/main/foodstamps/ or visit https://www.mybenefits.ny.gov

Supporting Documents:

FS Child Care Brochure | FS Child Care Brochure (Spanish)