North Carolina's food stamp program assists residents with groceries.
During difficult financial times, many individuals and families turn to the government for assistance in purchasing food in order to keep a roof over their heads. States have programs designed to provide low-income households with the ability to purchase food. In North Carolina, residents may apply for food stamp benefits. If they meet the qualifications, they will receive their benefits in the form of an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.
Income and Resources
To qualify for food stamps, North Carolina residents must meet specific income requirements. Income limits are based on the number of members in each household, and exceptions for elderly or disabled individuals are handled on a case-by-case basis. Income limits range from $1174 gross per month for a one person household to $4010 gross per month for an eight person household. In addition to income verification, applicants must also meet resource requirements. To qualify, households may have up to $2000 in resources including bank accounts and retirement accounts. If a household has an individual who is either over the age of 60 or disabled, the resource limit increases to $3000. However, if a household member is receiving social security income or Work First payments, the resources are not counted.
Household Composition
When determining eligibility for food stamps, the state of North Carolina considers household composition for many factors. If individuals are living under the same roof yet purchasing and preparing their meals separate from one another, they may apply for benefits as separate households. Those who are considered one household include individuals who live together and purchase or prepare their food as one unit; spouses or domestic partners who present themselves as husband and wife; children under 22 who are living with their parents; minor children under 18 who are under control of a parent or adult living in the home; or two unmarried adults who are the parents of a mutual child and live in the same household. In addition, all applicants must be a U.S. citizen or a legal immigrant.
Work Requirements
North Carolina laws require that some individuals receiving food stamp benefits participate in work programs through Food and Nutrition Services. If an individual between the ages of 18 and 49 is deemed eligible to work, but does not participate in a work program other than searching for a job, she will receive benefits for three months throughout a 36 month period. This limitation does not apply to individuals who work at least 20 hours per week or are a part of a work-related activity for an equal amount of time, individuals who are disabled or pregnant, or individuals who live with a child under the age of 18.
Electronic Benefits Transfer
North Carolina residents who qualify for benefits receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. Recipients then use the cards as they would use a credit card to purchase the allowed food and necessities. After receiving the card, an individual is provided with a personal identification number (PIN) to enter at point of sale purchases. The cards can be used at any approved United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) retailer, including most grocery stores. Benefits are loaded on the card at the beginning of each month. If the card is lost or stolen, it is canceled and the recipient is issued a new card. After every purchase the remaining account balance is printed on the receipt. Recipients may also check their balance by calling 1-888-622-7328.
Tags: North Carolina, Benefits Transfer, Carolina residents, Electronic Benefits, Electronic Benefits Transfer