How do you know that the vehicles are new?. They could be used, but there are some people with a decent job that receives SNAPS because their kid is really sick.
Yes, a family with a disabled child may be eligible for SNAP benefits, even if their income is considered middle class, although the term "middle class" can be subjective.
Here's why and how a family with a disabled child might qualify:
Special Rules for Disabled Individuals: Households that include a person with a disability are subject to specific SNAP eligibility rules that can make it easier to qualify, including a different income test than those without a disabled member.
Net Income Test: A household with a disabled member only needs to meet the net income test, not the gross income test. Net income is the household's total income after certain allowable deductions are subtracted.
Allowable Deductions: SNAP rules allow for deductions from gross income, which can lower a household's net income and potentially make them eligible. Examples of these deductions include:
Medical Expenses: A significant deduction for households with disabled members are medical expenses exceeding $35 per month that are not reimbursed by insurance or other third parties. This is particularly helpful for families with disabled children who often have significant medical costs.
Standard Deduction: A standard deduction is applied to every household, based on the number of members.
Earned Income Deduction: A portion (20%) of earned income (like wages) is deducted.
Dependent Care Deduction: When needed for work, training, or education.
Excess Shelter Costs: If shelter costs exceed a certain percentage of the household's income after other deductions.
Asset Limits: SNAP also has resource limits, but households with a disabled member are allowed a higher asset limit ($4,500) compared to households without a disabled member ($3,000).
Categorical Eligibility: In some cases, if all household members receive certain benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), the household may be automatically eligible for SNAP.
In summary: Even if a family's initial gross income appears to be too high for SNAP, the deductions, especially for medical expenses related to the disabled child, can significantly lower their net income, potentially making them eligible for benefits.
