You cannot be denied SNAP/food stamp benefits for lack of proof of deductions, but your benefits may be higher if you provide proofs. 106 C.M.R. § 364.450(B). What proofs (verifications) do I need? and See What if I am having trouble getting all the proofs, or the proofs get to DTA late? have detailed information on verifications, self-declarations, worker assistance and more. As a reminder:
- Dependent/child care deduction: You can self-declare the cost of child care or adult care, including transportation, unless questionable.
- Child support deduction: You can verify the legal obligation to pay support with any document that verifies it, such as a court order, administrative order, or legally enforceable separation agreement. You can verify the amount you pay with documents such as canceled checks or wage withholding statements. 106 C.M.R. §§ 361.610(J), 364.400(E). See also What is the child support deduction?
- Medical/health related expenses: For the standard $90 medical deduction you need to verify you incur at least $36 a month in expenses. To a higher, you need verify you have over $125/month in medical expenses. Proofs can include a medical bill, a print-out from the pharmacy of your last month’s co-payments and medical purchases, copies of receipts for over-the-counter medications and supplies, self-declaration of transportation costs. See What medical expenses can I claim if I am elderly (60+) or disabled?
Advocacy Reminders
- If your DTA worker failed to give you a notice telling you what verifications you needed and the date to provide them (at least ten days) or failed to help you get the verifications, you may be able to get the lost benefits. 106 C.M.R. § 364.450(B). See also What can I buy with SNAP/food stamp benefits?
Additional Policy Guidance on Verifications for Deductions
Additional Policy Guidance on Verifications for Deductions
- See also policy guidance referred to in What proofs (verifications) do I need? and What if I am having trouble getting all the proofs, or the proofs get to DTA late? of this Guide.
- DTA must accept alternative proofs of shelter expenses instead of landlord verification form; worker should approve and calculate SNAP/food stamp benefits without deductions if verifications needed for deductions not received. DTA Transitions (June 2005)
Produced by Patricia Baker, Laura Gallant, Deborah Harris, Rochelle Hahn Massachusetts Law Reform Institute Last updated January 2011