96. What is Simplified Reporting and when must I report changes to DTA?

The majority of SNAP households are on “Simplified Reporting”. This means you do not have to report to DTA any changes most of the time.- except for when you have to do paperwork. (an Interim Report or a Recertification to keep your SNAP benefits.)

There are also times when you DO need to tell DTA about a change in between your reporting periods. The rules vary for different types of households.

Households without members age 60+ or disabled:

You only need to tell DTA when your household’s gross income goes over the monthly gross income limit for your household size. 106 C.M.R. § 366.110(C)(3). This includes if someone moves into your household with income that puts your household’s income goes over the limit.

Be sure to tell DTA by the 10th day of the month following the month your income went over the gross income limit. The gross income limit for your household is 200% of the Federal Poverty Level for your household size and should be listed on your approval notice. See Gross Income Chart in Appendix B.

Example: 

Selina is a single mom with one child on simplified reporting. She has a part time job, earning $1,000 per month. Her SNAP was approved in January. Selina starts a second part time job in March earning $200/week. Her total monthly gross income from both jobs is about $500 below 200% FPL. She does not need to report the second job until her Recertification. However, in April Selina works more shifts and her gross income goes above 200% FPL. She needs to tell DTA by May 10th about this increase in income.

Households with members age 60+ and/or disabled

You only need to report changes when DTA sends you an Interim Report or Recertification form. You do not need to tell DTA about any changes in between these forms.

Reporting rules are different for some households where all members are seniors or persons with disabilities. See Question 98 about “EDSAP.”