22-03 Version of 6.1.1 Change Reporting for All Food Units (Simplified)

7 CFR 273.12(a)(5)(v)

7 CFR 273.11(c)(1)(ii)

All food units are subject to simplified reporting rules. Whether or not the unit is required to submit a six month report form (SMRF), the food unit must report by the 10th of the following month when the assistance group's (see Section 3.3.1 Food Unit/FoodShare Assistance Group/Relationships) monthly gross income received exceeds 130% FPL (see Section 8.1.1 Income Limits).

The monthly gross income limit is based on the assistance group size that existed at the time of its most recent certification action, regardless of any subsequent changes in the size of the assistance group.

Example 1

Mike is a FoodShare member that was certified with income under 130% FPL. Mike’s hours and rate of pay increase in the middle of January. Mike’s total gross income on the paychecks he received in January did not put the assistance group over 130% FPL.

Mike’s pay dates for February are February 13 and February 27. When Mike receives his paycheck on February 27, the assistance group's total gross income received is now over 130% FPL. The change in income must be reported by March 10.

Example 2

Ted is receiving FoodShare and is certified under 130% FPL. Ted starts a new job on December 30. He receives his first paycheck on January 17. His gross income received from his first paycheck puts his assistance group over 130% FPL. Ted must report the change in income by February 10.

Example 3

Kate, Trina, and Randy are a food unit of three. Kate is an ineligible student (gross deemer). Trina and Randy are both eligible for and receiving FoodShare (assistance group of two). If the food unit’s gross monthly income exceeds 130% of the FPL for an assistance group of two people, the food unit must report the change by the 10th of the following month.

Anticipated receipt of income and/or work hours is not required to be reported, even if the anticipated income is expected to put the food unit over the gross income 130% FPL. A reported change in income can only be used in the budget after it is received.

Example 4

Reggie reports during the interview that he expects to start a new job next month. Because the job has not started and a paycheck has not been received, no income is to be budgeted. Reggie is required to report when the income they receive from the job puts the food unit’s income above 130% FPL.

Once an assistance group has been certified eligible with a gross income above 130% FPL, all reporting requirements have been met until the next SMRF or renewal.

Example 5

Marlo is receiving FoodShare and is certified at 131% FPL. Two months later Marlo changes jobs and her monthly income is now at 240% FPL. Since Marlo was certified over 130%, Marlo does not need to report her income change until her next Six Month Report Form (SMRF) or renewal.

Reporting exception: ABAWDs must report by the 10th of the following month when their work hours fall below 80 hours per month.

However, if any change is reported or becomes known to the agency, it must be acted upon. When the information is not verified upon receipt, it may be appropriate to request clarification of the change.

See Section 5.1.1 Transitional FoodShare Benefits (TFS) for change reporting requirements for Transitional FoodShare (TFS) members.

This page last updated in Release Number: 22-03
Release Date: 12/05/2022
Effective Date: 12/05/2022