MR #11.18: SNAP Standards and Utility Standard Changes

Summary:

This release provides policy for the change in the SNAP Utility Standards and the Maximum Monthly Gross and Net Income Standards, the Standard Deduction Amount and the Maximum Excess Shelter Deduction, effective October 1, 2011.

This release also includes manual pages omitted in MR#11.12 and includes a change to the PSI case selection process.

As a result of our annual review of the state utility standards the Telephone Standard will increase to $30 and three utility standards will decrease.
The Air Conditioning/Heating Standard decreases to $284, the Limited Utility Standard to $194, and the Single Utility Standard to $41.
FNS has approved the change in utility standards to be implemented effective 10/01/11.
Federal law provides for an increase in the Maximum Monthly Gross and Net Income Standards, the Standard Deduction Amount and the Maximum Excess Shelter Deduction ($459).
In addition to these changes, we are increasing the SNAP 200% FPL Gross Income Standards to be consistent with other programs.
The SNAP Allotments, including the Basis of Issuance Table remain unchanged.
The increase in monthly income standards and standard deduction amount and excess shelter deduction are reflected in all system calculations and benefits processed on or after 08/29/11, effective for September Groups 05-09 and all October issuances.
System changes to the SNAP Web calculator and the expedited questions in AIS are effective 10/01/11.
The Program Standards chart WAG 25-03-02 is revised with the new standard amounts.
Updates miscellaneous manual pages inadvertently omitted in MR #11.12 : Eliminates the Requirement to Verify Housing Costs for SNAP.
Includes a change with the PSI case selection. A case coded with unearned income in Item 90 of a zero dollar amount is not offered the PSI option.