Page 53

UPDATED: NOVEMBER 2007

151

INCOME UNEARNED

IN-KIND INCOME

The fair market value of in-kind income, other than shelter, may also be determined by obtaining a statement from the person providing the in-kind income. The statement should specify the dollar value of the goods or maintenance provided.

In-kind income that is provided by persons other than legally responsible relatives for whom the A/R has not rendered a service is not considered in determining eligibility for Medicaid. This type of in- kind income includes donations from relatives (who are not legally responsible, as well as from friends or charitable and civic organizations. See INCOME UNEARNED CONTRIBUTIONS FROM NON-LEGALLY RESPONSIBLE RELATIVES AND FRIENDS for monetary donations.)

In instances where the A/R is a member of a communal organization or religious order which provides in-kind goods and services (e.g., meals, housing, personal items, clothing, etc.), the value of such in- kind goods and services is counted in the determination of eligibility.

In the absence of a clearly established fair market value for the goods and services provided (e.g., goods are purchased in bulk, members live in dormitory settings, etc.), the value of the goods and services provided is determined by reference to the local district-specific schedule for shelter, utilities, day care, food stamps, etc. This comparison provides a reasonable basis for evaluating the value of the goods and services without the necessity of determining the fair market value of such goods and services in each instance. The value of in-kind income for shelter cannot exceed the maximum Public Assistance allowance for shelter, based on the living arrangements of the A/R.

When to Verify: (a) When the A/R declares in the application that food, shelter, or other needs are provided by another person or organization;

(b) When the A/R declares in the application that s/he shares housing arrangements or lives with another person;

(MRG)