AB 433 is now law!
No More Asset Test for Food Stamp Households with Children
A great victory has been achieved for families struggling to put food on the table. Food stamp households will now no longer be subject to an asset test, a crucial step to expanding participation in the Food Stamp Program, as well as helping people escape the cycle of poverty. No asset test means families can save up for things like a child’s college education or a retirement fund, without worrying that they will be cut off from Food Stamps.
Previously, assets were included in the calculation of a family’s income, which determines Food Stamp eligibility. This puts families in a very difficult situation of either trying to save for the future, or receiving food now.
This new requirement will be implemented at the county level, and counties can begin its implementation as early as July 1, 2009, but no later than January 1, 2010.
It is our understanding that San Mateo County will begin implementation on August 1, 2009.
More work is left to be done, however: The new rule applies only to households with children, excluding single adults or adults living together.
- Download a more detailed flyer on this important change (PDF)
- Find out more at California Food Policy Advocates
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