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Eligibility

Eligibility

Eligibility

Eligibility is based on the financial situation of all members in a household. Everyone who lives together and purchases and prepares food together is considered a member of the same household group.

In general, we will review your expenses, assets, and income to determine what, if any, benefits for which you may be eligible. For questions about the Food Assistance Program, contact your local MDHHS Office

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Expenses Asset Limits
Some household expenses are taken into account when determining your benefit amount. Examples of some of these expenses include:
  • Shelter (rent, mortgage, heat, electric,
    water, telephone, etc.).
  • Court-ordered or legally obligated child support payments.
  • Dependent care expenses.
  • Medical (medical and dental care, hospitalization or nursing care, medical supplies, health insurance premiums etc.) for certain members who have a disability or are at least 60 years old.
Effective March 1, 2024, most Food Assistance Program (FAP) groups do not have an asset limit.

Certain FAP groups have an asset limit if a group member is disqualified for an Intentional Program Violation, employment and training disqualification (only for the individual who is the head of household), or a fleeing felon disqualification. These FAP groups have an asset limit of $3,000. If the group(s) contains an individual(s) who is age 60 or over or an individual(s) with a disability the asset limit increases to $4,500.

Examples of assets are:
  • Cash on hand.
  • Checking and savings accounts.
  • Investments.
  • Some trusts.
  • Property or real estate (excludes first home).
Income Residency Requirements
Most earned and unearned income is counted. Income is considered when determining the amount of food assistance you are eligible to receive. Examples of countable income are:
  • Wages.
  • Self-employment earnings.
  • Rental income.
  • Social Security benefits.
  • Veterans benefits.
 The following residency requirements apply:
  • Must be a U.S. citizen (or acceptable non-citizen status).
  • Must live in Michigan.