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SNAP CERTIFICATION MANUAL – SECTION 1000

the parental control of the other and the individuals do purchase their food and prepare their meals separately. Children under the age of 22 who live with a natural, adoptive or stepparent must be included in the same household as the parent. This rule applies even if the child is married or has children. Children age 17 or younger, other than foster children, who are under the parental control of an individual other than a natural, adoptive or stepparent must be included as a member of that individual’s household. This rule applies even if the child purchases and prepares his or her food separately. Children age 17 and younger who do not live with a parent or someone who acts as a parent may receive SNAP benefits in their own home. Adult children age 22 and older who live with a natural, adoptive or stepparent can be a separate household if they purchase and prepare food separately. The adult child, their spouse or children (if any) must be certified as one household. Siblings age 18 or older who live together without a parent can be separate households if they purchase and prepare food separately. If one sibling is age 18 or older and the other sibling is age 17 or younger, the siblings cannot be certified as separate households unless the younger sibling is emancipated. If either sibling has a spouse or children, the spouse or children must be included in the household. See SNAP 1640 for instructions on foster children. See SNAP 1630 for instructions on aged/disabled individuals who wish to participate as separate households. 1632.1 Separate Dwelling Claims SNAP Manual 02/01/20 At times, parents and children who are not allowed to participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program as separate households claim they live in separate dwellings that are closely situated or under the same roof. Each of these claims must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. If both households share common facilities such as the kitchen and living area, this is a good indication that the group should be certified as one (1) household. However, if each household lives in a separate structure, or has separate facilities within the same structure (i.e., an apartment or a duplex), then the households may be certified as separate households. Such determinations may require collateral contacts with landlords or utility companies. A home visit may be indicated if collateral contacts are not available. See the Glossary definition of “Verification” for information on home visits as part of the application process.