New Mexico Administrative Code
Title 8 - SOCIAL SERVICES
Chapter 139 - FOOD STAMP PROGRAM
Part 100 - GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM
Section 8.139.100.11 - GENERAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

A. Purpose: The supplemental nutrition assistance program (SNAP) is designed to promote the general welfare and to safeguard the health and well-being of the nation's population by raising the levels of nutrition among low-income households.

B. Household participation: Participation in SNAP shall be limited to those households whose income and other financial resources, held singly or in joint ownership, are determined to be a substantial limiting factor in permitting them to obtain a more nutritious diet. Eligibility for the program is determined by comparing the applicant group's income, resources, and non-financial eligibility information to the program's policies.

C. National standards: Uniform national standards for determining eligibility and participation are established each year and are effective every October. A household shall meet income and resource limits and other specific eligibility criteria before approval for participation in SNAP. The income test is based on one hundred and thirty percent of the federal poverty level. Resource eligibility limits are $2,250 for households whose members are under 60 years of age, and $3,250 for households containing one or more individuals 60 years of age or over. The federal government funds program benefits at one hundred percent and administrative costs at fifty percent.