Food Stamps Set To Increase
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Beginning September 1, 2008, eligible Maine residents may see an increase in the amount of food stamps they receive due to higher home heating and other utility costs.
Food stamps are distributed in the form of a rechargeable debit card called “The Pine Tree Card,” and individuals can currently receive up to $162 per month, while couples can receive up to $298 per month.
To be eligible, recipients must meet two income guidelines set by the federal government:
· Individuals cannot make more than $1,107 in monthly gross income or $850 in monthly net income.
· Couples cannot make more than $1,484 monthly gross income or $1,181 monthly net income.
Applicant must also list their assets and personal property when applying, and the size of your family is also taken into consideration.
There are restrictions as to what food stamps can and cannot be used for. They cannot be used to purchase paper products, cleaning supplies, alcohol or tobacco products, and are meant to supplement a family with food, rather than feed them in full.
Approximately 180,000 people collect food stamps in Maine, with the number increasing monthly. For senior citizens and the disabled, food stamps eligibility is reviewed annually, for all others, every three months.
To find out more about eligibility requirements and restrictions, please contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Services, or the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to find a local district office near you.
