SNAP budgeting is more complex than budgeting for other means-tested programs. This is the result of an effort to carefully target the benefits to the neediest households. This section guides advocates through the process of estimating the SNAP benefit for which a household might be eligible.
Budget Calculations Are Estimates
All budget calculations should be considered estimates. Many factors can affect each aspect of the budget, and there are an equal number of opportunities for inaccuracies. In particular, reported income used in the calculation may change or may be the applicant’s estimate. Therefore, it is important to emphasize to the applicant that you are providing them with an estimate of the SNAP benefits for which the household may be eligible.
If the allotment ultimately granted by the SNAP office is significantly different, the applicant or advocate should read the budget explanation in the notice of decision carefully to determine where the difference occurred. If the SNAP office has made an error, it should be corrected.
The SNAP budgeting section explains how to determine an estimated SNAP budget and includes an online SNAP Benefits Estimator Calculator.
Reference Documents
Actions To Take Before Calculating a SNAP Budget
Several determinations must be made in the SNAP budgeting process before a budget can be calculated:
- Determine which household members are included/excluded in the SNAP case (non-citizens, students, etc.).
- Determine household composition (mandatory household members, i.e., who purchases and prepares food together).
- Add up all income from earned and unearned sources to determine the household’s gross income.
- Determine if the household is categorically eligible, and if so, which gross income test must be applied.
- Test the income against the correct percentage of poverty for household size. If the household income is below the amount listed, you can start the budgeting process.
To accurately calculate the household’s SNAP budget, you will need the following information:
- Age of household members
- Disability status of household members
- Amount and source of income
- Dependent care costs
- Child support paid
- Medical expenses for elderly or disabled household members
- Shelter costs
- Type of shelter
- Types of utilities
Using the SNAP Benefits Estimator Calculator
The SNAP Benefits Estimator Calculator estimates a household’s SNAP benefit. The calculator is divided into three sections: Household Information, Income, and Deductions. Most questions have links to helpful relevant information in this section.
