In 2019, 35.7 million people relied on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to eat, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, but enrollment had been steadily declining since 2013. That trend went out the window when the pandemic reversed the tide and swelled the rolls of America’s largest food-security program to 41.5 million in 2021.

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In 2022, applications are up again, but this time around, inflation and rising prices are to blame.

If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity, it’s important to understand how the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) — which runs SNAP — classifies income. It’s also important to know the limits the USDA places on the amount of money recipients can earn in order to qualify.

Understanding ‘Income’ as It Pertains to SNAP

The USDA has standards for two income categories: gross income and net income. Most families have to meet the limit thresholds for both to qualify for benefits. Gross income is “a household’s total, non-excluded income, before any deductions have been made,” according to the USDA. Net income is “gross income minus allowable deductions.”

Deductions include things such as qualifying medical or dependent care expenses.

For the purposes of SNAP, it’s important to note that income includes not just wages and other earned income, but unearned income like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and veterans, disability and death benefits.

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The Other LA

Brittney Griner

After a Russian court sentenced WNBA star Brittney Griner  to nine years in prison

for a drug smuggling conviction, the player’s supporters, teammates and numerous US officials swiftly condemned the decision, many concerned her detention is being used to advance Russia’s agenda in the Ukraine war.  White House calls for her release.

“I want the court to understand that this was an honest mistake that I made while rushing, under stress, trying to recover from COVID and just trying to get back to my team.”

“I know everybody keeps talking about political pawn and politics, but I hope that is far from this courtroom.”

“I made an honest mistake and I hope that in your ruling, that it doesn’t end my life here.”

“I want to say again that I had no intent on breaking any Russians laws. I had no intent, I did not conspire or plan to commit this crime.

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