With more in need, program benefits rise with name change
by Colin Lovett, PIC Current Producer
As the economy tanks, more people are lining up to get food stamp assistance. More than 29 million people were getting food stamps as of July. The new numbers are not in yet, but reports from across the country indicate many more are applying for help in response to the current financial mess, including a four percent rise in the cost of food.
The jump in need comes as the program has increased benefits, qualified more people and changed its name to SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The minimum monthly benefit is now $14, the standard deduction is $144, retirement and education accounts are no longer counted again you and child care costs are now considered.
What does this mean for you?
- Benefits will rise for most people who qualify. This means more money to buy food for you and your family. For example, maximum benefits for a family of four have gone from $542 to $588 a month.
- The rise in deductions means more will qualify and those who do will get more benefits.
- Many who were not able to get benefits before might now qualify. For example, a family of four making up to $27,564 a year may be able to get benefits under the new rules
The new rules went into effect on October 1. You can use this online tool to find out if your family can get benefits. You can also call your state to learn more about the program. A list of phone numbers for each state can be found here.
We’ll be back later with ideas on how you can stretch your food budget and cook tasty and healthy meals on the cheap.
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