Residents of institutions which provide residents with a majority of meals (e.g., more than half of the weekly meals) do not qualify for SNAP/food stamp benefits. Institutions include hospitals, boarding schools, nursing homes, mental health facilities, and prisons. 106 C.M.R. § 361.240(A) and (B).
However, as with group homes, there are a number of exceptions that permit residents of certain institutions. 106 C.M.R. § 361.240(B). You may still be eligible for SNAP/food stamps if you live in the following settings:
- federally subsidized housing for the elderly,
- shelter for homeless individuals or families or a shelter for victims of domestic violence,
- teen parent living program (the teen program may act as your authorized representative and use your benefits for group meals or may let you use some or all of the benefits separately, see 106 C.M.R. § 365.620(B), or
- drug or alcohol treatment center (public or nonprofit). The center will require you to make them an authorized representative during your stay. 106 C.M.R. § 365.610.
Advocacy Reminders
- Although individual residents of drug/alcohol treatment centers and teen living programs do not receive the SNAP/food stamp benefits directly, the resident should receive the benefits directly once he or she moves into a permanent residence. Advocates should be sure that the residential program reports the change of address to DTA and ensures benefits continue if the individual meets the SNAP/food stamp rules.
- If you are sentenced to "home detention" (for example, you wear an electronic or prison bracelet at home), you should not be considered jailed or incarcerated.
Additional Policy Guidance on Residents of Institutions
Additional Policy Guidance on Residents of Institutions
- Children home on summer break are eligible for benefits, but not while at school. DTA Transitions (July 2006)
- Receipt of school meal plan at college does not disqualify student if meal plan does not provide majority of meals consumed. DTA Transitions (Nov. 2006)
- Home detention (electronic bracelet) does not render an applicant ineligible. DTA Transitions (Aug. 2001)
- Social Security or other income received for a child in an institution is not countable to rest of household. DTA Transitions (June 2000)
Produced by Patricia Baker, Laura Gallant, Deborah Harris, Rochelle Hahn Massachusetts Law Reform Institute Last updated January 2011
