Benefits Glossary
Government forms use confusing terms. Here's what they actually mean in plain language.
30 terms found
Total income minus specific deductions; used to determine eligibility for some benefits
The maximum value of assets you can have and still qualify for certain means-tested benefits
Someone you appoint to help with your application or represent you in dealings with benefits agencies
The time frame for which a benefit is provided, usually monthly but can vary by program
Automatic eligibility for one program because you qualify for another program
Children's Health Insurance Program; provides health coverage for uninsured children
Income that is counted toward determining your eligibility for benefits
Amounts subtracted from your gross income to calculate your net income for benefits
The process of evaluating whether you meet the legal definition of disability
Electronic Benefits Transfer card; used to access SNAP and other benefits at stores
Fast-track SNAP approval within 7 days for households meeting certain criteria
Your right to challenge a benefits decision before an impartial hearing officer
Income threshold set annually by the federal government; used to determine benefit eligibility
Total income before any deductions or taxes are applied
All people living together who share meals and expenses; relevant for calculating eligibility
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program; helps pay heating and cooling bills
Federal health insurance program for low-income individuals and families
Gross income minus allowed deductions; used to determine eligibility for some benefits
Benefits received that exceed the amount you were eligible for; you may have to repay
Local agency that administers public housing and housing assistance programs
Process of re-proving your eligibility for benefits at regular intervals
Assets like money, property, and valuables counted when determining benefit eligibility
Federal housing voucher program helping low-income renters afford housing
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; provides food assistance for low-income families
Social Security Disability Insurance; provides benefits to workers with disabilities
Supplemental Security Income; provides cash payments to disabled, blind, and elderly persons
Income level that determines whether someone is able to work and ineligible for disability
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families; provides cash assistance to low-income families
Process of proving that the information you provided is true and accurate
Women, Infants, and Children program; provides nutrition assistance for pregnant women and young children