What has changed?
If you were not eligible for Food Support in a previous year, some of those conditions that made you ineligible may no longer exist. Here are just some of those changes.

 

• The gross income limits have increased.
  Minnesota received a waiver whereby anyone who receives a copy of the state’s Domestic Violence Brochure is now eligible for a $7,000 asset limit, no including vehicles.
  
• Minimum monthly benefit increased to $14 and indexed it to inflation.
  
• Minimum standard deduction increased to $144 and indexed it to inflation.
  
• Retirement and education accounts are no longer considered countable resources.
  
• All dependent care costs (child care and care for elderly or disabled household members) are now considered when determining eligibility and benefit amount.
  
• The following deductions from Gross Income can be subtracted from Gross Income in determining eligibility and level of food support benefits: 

 

1. Dependent Care Deductions (Actual Cost), must be working, looking for work, or in schooling to acquire work 
   
2. Work Expense deduction of 20% of the unit’s gross income
   
3. Medical Deductions for any costs over $35 per month
   
4. Shelter Deductions
   
5. Standard Deductions (currently $143 for a family of 4)
   
6. Child and Spousal Support Deductions (must be court ordered)
   
7. Utility deductions (standard or actual)