In some low-income Florida households, buying healthy food is difficult, and residents have to make choices about buying food or paying for other bills and necessities. As of 2010, Florida's Food Assistance Program, funded by the federal government, helps more than 2.6 million Floridians access the funds they need to put food on the table. To receive these benefits, you must meet strict eligibility requirements.
Residency and Citizenship Requirements
In order to apply for food stamps in Florida, you must be a resident of Florida and have proof of your identity. In addition, you must be a U.S. citizen, or provide proof that you are in the country legally. In some cases, non-U.S. citizens, such as those seeking asylum, can receive food stamps. You must have a Social Security number, or be able to provide proof that you have applied for one. These rules apply to all members of the household applying for food stamps. If someone in your household does not have a Social Security number, for example, you cannot count that person when determining your household size.
Income Requirement
The primary eligibility requirement for food stamps in Florida is your household income. Your gross monthly household income must be equal to or less than 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines for your household size, and your net income, after deductions, must be less than 100 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. If someone in the household is over age 60 or disabled, you only need to meet the net income test. If someone in your household has broken Food Assistance Program Rules, not participated in a mandatory work program, run away from a felony warrant or been convicted of drug trafficking, however, then the household must have a monthly gross income of 130 percent or less of the federal poverty level and a net monthly income of 100 percent of the federal poverty level.
Asset Test
Florida also requires an asset test to determine eligibility for food stamps. In order to receive food stamps, you cannot have more than $2,000 in the bank, or $3,000 if you are elderly or disabled. Your vehicle and some personal property may also be considered assets when determining your eligibility. According to federal law, though, your retirement plan, such as a 401k or a 403b, is not considered an asset.
Child Support Enforcement
If you are applying for food stamps, and have children, you must cooperate with the state division of child support enforcement, if applicable. Working with this department is necessary to prove your legal relationship to the child you're claiming as part of the household, and to get child support payments ordered from the non-custodial parent, if necessary.
Work Requirement
If you are between the ages of 18 and 50 and are not disabled, and are not pregnant or do not have children, you are required to work or participate in a work training program in order to receive food stamps. If you do not work, you can only receive food stamps for up to three months in any three-year period.
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