Some people are afraid that filing for a divorce may affect their eligibility for food stamps. The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is not affected by your marital status. It’s calculated based on your family size and income. Contact a Westlake Village divorce attorney if you have any questions about the divorce process in your particular situation.
Every household is different and also the resources or income available to them. In order to qualify for SNAP, your family will have to meet certain requirements. Just remember, a household is the individuals living under the same roof and preparing meals together. In other words, if you live with your husband or wife chances are you will not qualify for food stamps. It’s very difficult for married couples to receive these benefits. However, once you get legally divorce your spouse’s earnings are no longer counted therefore you have more chances of qualifying for food stamps.
Child support and alimony are considered earned income together with unemployment, pensions and Social Security, which means they may be looked at when determining your eligibility. Certain child support and alimony payments may be deducted. In other words, if you are the one responsible for providing child support, your monthly income will be lowered therefore you may be more eligible when applying for food stamps.
The number of people in your household will determine how much help you receive from SNAP. If you and your ex-spouse have joint custody of your children, one of you can claim the kids as part of your household. However, both of you can’t claim the children at the same time. You need to talk to your ex and decide who will claim them. You can also take this matter to court and allow the judge to decide who claims the children.
Individuals or families applying for SNAP who have accumulated a significant amount of assets may not qualify. There are some resources excluded such as the value of the house or vehicles. In general, divorce tends to reduce the assets so you may have more chances of qualifying for food stamps.
Divorce can be a difficult process for everyone in the family. There are so many aspects that need to be considered such as child support, alimony, division of assets, and other family law matters you may not be familiar with. We want to make this process less stressful for you. Your Westlake Village divorce attorney can gather key evidence you may need to prove the financial aspects of your divorce.
It’s important you prepare before going to court. If you don’t know the value of your assets, you will not get the portion you are entitled to receive. Likewise, if you can’t prove to the court you are a responsible parent, you may not have the physical custody. These are all important matters that need to be considered and studied carefully during the divorce process. If you have any questions or concerns, contact us today and schedule your initial case evaluation.
