FDPIR Guidance on Changes to Household Eligibility

This memorandum provides FDPIR administering agencies with guidance on changes to household eligibility requirements found at 7 CFR 253.6(a). FDPIR administering agencies must work to ensure their household eligibility processes reflect the following changes beginning on Dec. 30, 2024.

Spouses Living Separately

Updated regulations at 7 CFR 253.6(a)(1)(iv) grant separate household status to spouses living apart. FDPIR administering agencies must treat spouses living separately and apart as separate households for purposes of FDPIR.

Children

A child (other than a foster child) under 18 years of age who lives with and is under the parental control of a household member must be considered a member of the household. A child can only be certified if the adult household member has parental control over the child. Per updated regulations at 7 CFR 253.6(a)(4), a child is considered under parental control if they are financially or otherwise dependent on a member of that household. For example, if a child is living with and dependent on (financially or otherwise) their grandparents, the child is considered under parental control of their grandparents and is a member of their household for the purposes of determining eligibility.

Applicants or participants are not federally required to provide documentation to demonstrate that a child is financially or otherwise dependent on a member of their household. Per 7 CFR 253.7(a)(6)(ii), FDPIR administering agencies may verify the information if it appears to be questionable.

FDPIR administering agencies should contact their respective FNS regional office with any questions about this memorandum.

Sara Olson
Director
Policy Division
Supplemental Nutrition and Safety Programs