Page 19

Division/Section Economic Stability Chapter No./Name 4 – Economic Independence (EI) Part No./Name B – Eligibility Factors Section No./Name B-600-FITAP-SNAP Income Document No./Name B-650-SNAP Deductions Effective Date June 1, 2026

19 of 22 B-656-SNAP - PR CHILD SUPPORT PAYMENTS

Budgeting Child Support Payment Deduction

To determine the amount of the deduction to allow for child support payments, look at each individual's situation.

When a household has a record of paying legally obligated child support at least three months out of the past six months:

• Look at the past payments made, and

• Discuss with the client what payments are expected to be made in the future.

• Use both sources to determine prospective payments.

• Document to show how the decision was reached.

NOTE: Unless there is a change expected, usually a six-month average is a good indicator of future payments. Usually, at least the last three months of payments are used if averaging. Arrearages may be included in the average.

EXAMPLE:

Mr. A applies on October 4, 2021. It is verified that Mr. A was ordered by the court on May 24, 2021 to pay $500 per month child support. He anticipates no changes. The worker verifies the following payment history:

Month Total Amt Paid -(Includes Arrearages) Arrearages

April 2021 $1000 $ 500 May 2021 $ 500 None June 2021 $1500 $1000 July 2021 $ 200 None August 2021 $ 0 None September 2021 $ 300 None

Arrearages may be allowed when computing the budget. Mr. A did not anticipate any changes; therefore, average the last six months of actual payments (the obligated amount plus arrearages) to arrive at an average monthly payment amount of $583.

At redetermination, obtain updated information on which to base a new average for the new certification period.