Nutrition Outreach & Education Program
Our Nutrition Outreach & Education Program (NOEP) provides free, confidential pre-screenings to determine potential Food Stamp eligibility. If it appears that you may be eligible, assistance can be given with providing application materials, filling out the application, gathering documentation, answering questions about the process, and facilitating the relationship between the client and the Department of Social Services (DSS).
Why NOEP
Eligibility
Who to Contact
Frequently Asked Questions
NOEP in Tompkins County
NOEP in Tioga County
Why NOEP?
We pride ourselves in making the process as easy
as possible by taking the time to explain food stamp terms and the application
process, answering any questions about food stamps, providing referrals
to other resources such as food pantries, and by contacting DSS if any
problems arise on behalf of the client.
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Eligibility
Tentative Eligibility can be initially determined by the monthly gross income limit.
A free, confidential, 15-minute pre-screening over the phone or in person with a NOEP representative is all it takes to determine if you may be eligible for food stamps.
The gross maximum income limit to households with an elderly person (60+) or disabled member is 200% the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Households without an elderly or disabled member must fall at or below the 130% FPL. Child support being paid is taken out before gross income calculation. Income includes pay from work, pension, child support, social security, disability, workman’s compensation, etc. The gross income limit may change every October. This chart is accurate until September 30, 2008.
| Household Size | Monthly Gross Income 130% FPL | Monthly Gross Income 200% FPL |
| 1 | $1,107 | $1,702 |
| 2 | $1,484 | $2,282 |
| 3 | $1,861 | $2,862 |
| 4 | $2,238 | $3,442 |
| 5 | $2,615 | $4,022 |
| 6 | $2,992 | $4,602 |
| 7 | $3,369 | $5,182 |
| 8 | $3,746 | $5,762 |
| Each additional person | +$377 | +$580 |
There are special rules for the following groups: college students,
legal aliens, immigrants, asylees, and refugees. Contact the NOEP for
details.
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Who to contact
Tompkins CountyTioga County
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Frequently Asked Questions/Myths
Can I work and still get food stamps?
Yes. Many recipients work and receive food stamp benefits, as long as
they meet the income requirements.
Do I have to sell my home and car to get
on food stamps?
No. You can own the home (and land it sits on), one car per licensed
driver, and any property or vehicles that provide income to you.
I tried applying a year ago and I didn’t
qualify. Why should I try again?
The income guidelines change every year. Plus, your situation might
have changed. It is worthwhile to give us a call and find out if you
qualify at least once a year, particularly if you were close to qualifying.
It only takes 15 minutes to determine if you may qualify.
I don’t want food stamps because other
people need it more than I do.
If everyone in New York qualified for food stamps, then EVERYONE in
New York State would be able to get them. There are no limits on how
many people can qualify.
Will DSS put a lien on my home?
No. DSS will not put a lien on your home if you qualify and receive
food stamps.
I’m a student in college. Will I qualify?
Students are special cases and need to fulfill certain requirements
in addition to the income and resource requirements. Call the NOEP to
find out more.
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Please contact us for more information or if you have any questions about this program.