Categorical Eligibility Questions and Answers

Attached are questions and answers on the implementation of categorical eligibility and the reporting requirements for categorically eligible households. These questions are in response to inquiries from the states.

As explained in previous memos, there are three types of categorical eligibility. Broad-based categorical eligibility refers to the policy that makes most, if not all, households categorically eligible for SNAP because they receive non-cash TANF/MOE funded benefit or service, such as an informational pamphlet or 800-number. Narrow categorical eligibility describes the policy that makes a smaller number of households categorically eligible for SNAP because they receive a TANF/MOE funded benefit such as child care or counseling. Both narrow and broad-based categorical eligibility are non-cash categorical eligibility. Traditional categorical eligibility refers to the mandatory policy that makes households categorically eligible for SNAP because the household receives TANF, SSI, or general assistance cash benefits.

Arthur T. Foley
Director
Program Development Division

Attachment

• Questions and Answers