Eligiblity

Evaluating Eligibility Rules

Katie Pettway

HSM/240

September 16, 2012

Terra Harris

Evaluating Eligibility Rules

After examining the eligibility rules of several programs implanted by the Administration for Children and Families, it is apparent that the eligibility rules vary by program. The Administration for Children and Families helps its clients to obtain several family oriented assistance programs such as, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, Supplemental Security Income, and Food Stamps.

The LIHEAP is a program created in order to assist low income families with heating and cooling costs. The main eligibility criteria fall on an applicant’s income information. According to the Administration for Children and Families, the LIHEAP establishes 150% of the poverty level as the maximum income level, unless the state median is 60% higher. Although this program requires a particular income amount in order to receive its services, it does mention its flexibility for those in higher income areas as well as allowing at least one other member of the house hold to receive assistance from any other Federal program such as those mentioned above.

The supplemental Security Income Program is a Federal program designated to assist individuals with monthly payments to in order to supplement low incomes and few resources. These individuals are generally made up of those 65 or older, blind, and/or disabled, are considered low income, and live in the United States. The income considered any wages, social security benefits, pensions, and shelter. In addition, if the individual is married or a minor, a portion of the spouse or parents income and resources are considered. Disabled people applying also have some flexibility such as, the wages used to pay for items or services used in order to work are not counted in the income edibility. Lastly, resources such as, real estate, bank accounts, cash, and stocks and bonds are also considered when reviewing an...