Eligibility

• Arkansas food stamps are available to U.S. citizens or legally admitted aliens who have or apply for a Social Security number. As of 2010, most families meet income requirements if their gross income does not exceed 130 percent of the Federal Poverty Level and their net income is at or below 100 percent of the FPL. Households with disabled members or adults age 60 or older need only meet the net income requirements. Households receiving public welfare cash aid or Supplemental Security Income are automatically eligible for food stamps. You may have assets valued at up to $2,000 -- or $3,000 for elderly or disabled members.
  
  

Asset and Income Exclusions

• Your home, life insurance, burial plots, approved income-producing properties and some retirement or education accounts are excluded from asset limits. Additionally, households may have one vehicle per working adult or student valued at $4,650 or less. Certain deductions are subtracted from your income before eligibility is determined, including 20 percent of your earned income, farm losses, childcare expenses, child support, shelter costs, some medical expenses and a standard deduction.
  
  

Benefits

• Food stamp allotment amounts are calculated based on your net income and household size. As of 2010, the maximum amount a family of four can receive is $668 monthly, while a family of eight may be eligible for up to $1,202. Add $150 per month for additional family members. The exact benefit amount is determined by subtracting 30 percent of your net income from the maximum benefit allotment for your family. Food stamp benefits are retroactive to the day you apply, not the day you are approved.
  
  

Recipients' Responsibilities

• Non-exempt adults are required to work, register for work or enroll in a work program. Exemptions may include adults age 60 or older, disabled individuals, pregnant women and some individuals caring for small children or those enrolled in school. Once approved, your household is eligible for benefits for 12 months. A semi-annual reporting form will be mailed to you every six months, and you must return it by the due date. You must report increased income exceeding SNAP income limits or some employment changes within 10 days of the change. Failure to return your semi-annual form or report changes may result in closure of your food stamp case.