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SNAP CERTIFICATION MANUAL – SECTION 3000 6600 The Excess Shelter Deduction 6610 Allowable Shelter Costs unless the household moves, changes in shelter costs are not required to be reported. Therefore, if the household become qualified for the homestead tax credit during their certification period, the eligibility worker will not adjust the household’s real estate tax expense to reflect this credit until the household’s next renewal unless the household moves and reports a change in shelter costs or otherwise reports a change in shelter costs or otherwise reports a change in the tax bill. At that time, the household will be asked to furnish proof of the household’s current real estate tax bill. This bill should reflect the amount of real estate taxes after the credit was allowed. However, since the household is not required to report changes in shelter costs unless the household moves, the change in the mortgage cost will most likely be reported at the next renewal. If the household’s real estate taxes are included in the household’s mortgage payment, the eligibility worker will not attempt to adjust the amount of the household’s mortgage payment to allow for the tax credit. Instead, the eligibility worker will continue to use the cost incurred for the current mortgage payment in the budget. After the tax credit is allowed, the mortgage company should adjust the amount of the mortgage payment to reflect the tax credit. 3. Insurance on the household’s shelter The cost of insurance on the structure itself, but not separate costs for insuring furniture or personal belongings, are allowable when incurred by the household. If homeowner’s insurance is sold as a “package” and the company does not identify the cost incurred for coverage on the contents of the home, the entire premium is allowable. The case record must contain documentation to this effect. Membership charges paid to organizations offering insurance to members are not an allowable shelter cost. 4. Utility costs The following utility expenses will be considered when determining eligibility for a utility standard: • The cost of cooking fuel • The cost of heating fuel • The cost of cooling (a verifiable utility expense relating to the operation of air conditioning systems, room air conditioners, or evaporative water coolers) • The cost of electricity • Water and sewer cost • Well installation and maintenance • Septic tank installation and maintenance • Garbage and trash collection fees • Fees charged by the utility provider for initial installation of the utility • Telephone cost