FNS Documents & Resources

FNS is issuing this memorandum in an effort to clarify the characteristics of BBCE programs and the actions states must take to ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.

This memo contains an attachment of questions and answers on broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE) that are based on inquiries from the states.

We would like to issue a correction on question 11 from the Questions and Answers on categorical eligibility that were issued on Dec. 15, 2009. The answer incorrectly states that the entire household is no longer categorically eligible if any member of a categorically eligible household fails to comply with work registration, job search, voluntary quit, workfare, or monthly reporting requirements. 

Attached are questions and answers from Nov. 20, 2009,  Dec. 15, 2009 and Jan. 26, 2010 on the implementation of categorical eligibility and the reporting requirements for categorically eligible households. These questions are in response to inquiries from the states.

This memo gives guidance on categorical eligibility for food stamps, and new policies on vehicles as resources, under rules published on Nov. 21, 2000.

This memo clarifies that any time all members of a household receive benefits under a program for needy families funded primarily through Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, whether cash or other benefits such as services, the TANF resource rules apply and thus an income eligible working family can both own a car and obtain food stamps.