HHS Issues Poverty Guidelines, SNAP Gross Income Test (200% FPL) affected

USDA just issued the 2013 poverty guidelines, which will be effective tomorrow (1/24/13). The new numbers reflect a 2.1% increase in the consumer price index for urban consumers (CPI-U).  Here's a link to the new HHS tables (100% FPL):  https://s3.amazonaws.com/public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2013-01422.pdf

This poverty level increase will increases the SNAP 200% gross income test. The 200% FPL test applies to families with children, pregnant women, seniors and persons with disabilities. For households with seniors and persons with disabilities whose income exceeds 200% FPL, the household must also meet the asset test.  The 130% gross income test and SNAP benefit amounts are not affected by this COLA. The 130% gross income test will be adjusted as of October 1, 2013 and, unfortunately, there will be a decrease (rollback) in the SNAP monthly benefit amount in November 2013 due to with expiration of the 2009 ARRA increase (more on that later). The CPI-U increase will also affect gross income tests uses by other programs including MassHealth, Fuel Assistance, WIC, etc. 

MLRI has revised the SNAP worksheet (www.masslegalservices.org/content/food-stampsnap-calculation-worksheet) and will soon be revising the SNAP on-line calculator. We anticipate DTA will issue an update within the next week to be effective Feb 1st.