Figuring out whether you need to include your boyfriend’s income when you apply for food stamps (officially called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP) can be super confusing. It really depends on your living situation and whether you two are considered a single household by the rules. Let’s break it down so you have a clearer understanding of what’s required when you apply for food stamps.
The Basic Question: Do I Need to List His Income?
The main question is: Do you and your boyfriend share the same household? If you’re considered a single unit, then generally, yes, you will need to include his income. The definition of a household isn’t always the same as who lives together, especially when it comes to things like SNAP.
What Makes a Household?
A household, for SNAP purposes, is generally defined as people who live together and buy and prepare food together. This is the biggest factor, but there are other considerations too.
Here’s what the government is looking at when deciding if you’re one household or two:
- Do you share food expenses?
- Do you jointly pay for housing costs (rent/mortgage, utilities)?
- Do you have a joint bank account?
The answers to these questions can help determine if you’re one household, or two. It is important to be honest on your application, and know that the answers will affect how your benefits are calculated.
When You’re Likely Considered One Household
If you and your boyfriend share food costs, meaning you go grocery shopping together and split the bill, you’re more likely to be considered one household. This is a strong indicator that you’re functioning as a single economic unit, sharing resources to meet your basic needs. This is the single most impactful factor in determining if his income must be reported.
There are other factors as well, but this is the most important. The following are other things that might indicate you two are one household, though they aren’t the biggest factor:
- You share a lease or own the home together.
- You share bank accounts.
- You split the cost of utilities.
If these situations exist, you should include the boyfriend’s income on your application.
When You’re Likely Considered Two Households
If you live together but handle finances separately, you might be considered two separate households. This could mean you each buy and prepare your own food, even if you live in the same place.
If this is the situation, here are some more things to consider. If these situations exist, it is less likely that you would include his income on your application:
- Separate food purchases.
- Separate living expenses.
- No shared bank accounts.
If you prepare food separately, and do not share expenses, it is less likely you’ll need to include your boyfriend’s income.
The Role of Children
If you have children, and your boyfriend is the child’s parent, it almost always means you’re considered a single household. This is because of the shared responsibility for the child’s care and expenses.
This is true whether or not you are married. The parents of a child or children are considered a single household for SNAP, even if they don’t share a home or pay the bills together.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- If your boyfriend is the child’s parent, include his income.
- If he isn’t, it goes back to the basic household rules.
This can change depending on your state, so make sure you confirm the rules for your state.
Marriage Matters
Being married usually means you’re considered a single household, even if you don’t share everything financially. If you are married, your husband’s income will almost certainly be included.
If you’re married, or plan to be, the government will consider your income as a single unit. This is the rule nationwide.
Here’s a table showing whether to include income or not, if you’re married:
| Relationship Status | Income Inclusion? |
|---|---|
| Married | Yes |
| Not Married | Maybe, see the other rules. |
This is the simplest answer, so make sure you follow this rule.
It’s All About Honesty and Accuracy
When applying for SNAP, it’s super important to be honest and provide accurate information. The rules can be tricky, but the best thing to do is to be truthful about your living situation and finances.
It can be a big problem if you provide false information. This is why honesty is key. This is true even if you think including your boyfriend’s income will hurt your chances of getting food stamps. It’s much better to follow the rules. Always remember to follow the instructions when applying.
If you’re not sure, ask a worker at your local social services office. They can help you understand the rules specific to your situation. They are there to provide assistance.
Also, remember that laws are always changing, so it’s a good idea to get the most up-to-date information. This helps to make sure you get the assistance you need.
If you are eligible, you will receive assistance for your food purchases!