Include people you live with and buy food with.

Your household includes everyone who lives with you, shares meals, and buys food together in Iowa. This typically includes spouses, children, and other relatives or roommates who share food expenses. Count each person, including infants and elderly members.

In Iowa, urban areas (e.g., cities) may have different living costs compared to rural areas. Select 'Rural' if you live in a less populated area, which may affect utility deductions.

An elderly person is 60 or older. A disabled person in Iowa includes those receiving disability benefits (e.g., SSDI) or with a condition that limits daily activities. Households with elderly or disabled members may qualify for higher deductions and asset limits.

In Iowa, students enrolled at least half-time in higher education may not qualify for SNAP unless they meet exemptions, such as working 20+ hours/week, caring for a child, or being disabled. Select 'Yes' if any household member is a student.

Include wages before taxes.

Include all earned income in Iowa, such as wages, salaries, tips, or self-employment income before taxes or deductions. For hourly workers, estimate monthly income by multiplying weekly hours by your hourly rate and then by 4.33 (average weeks per month).

Include Social Security, disability, etc.

Other income in Iowa includes unearned income like Social Security, disability payments, pensions, unemployment benefits, or child support received. Do not include loans, gifts, or one-time payments.

Include bank accounts, exclude home.

Resources in Iowa include cash, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and vehicles (excluding one primary vehicle). Do not include your home, retirement accounts, or personal property. The limit is $3,000 ($4,500 if elderly/disabled).

Include costs paid for childcare or care for disabled adults in Iowa to allow you to work, seek employment, or attend training. Examples: daycare, babysitters, or in-home care. Enter the total monthly amount paid.

Enter legally obligated child support payments you make in Iowa. This deduction only applies if you pay court-ordered child support to someone outside your household. Do not include voluntary payments.

Include your monthly rent or mortgage payment in Iowa. For homeowners, include principal and interest. Do not include utilities or other housing costs here; those are entered separately.

Include insurance, taxes, HOA fees.

In Iowa, housing costs include property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA fees for homeowners, or renter’s insurance for renters. Do not include utilities like electricity or water; those are entered below.

You are considered homeless in Iowa if you lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes living in shelters, vehicles, or public spaces. Homeless households may qualify for a standard deduction and relaxed eligibility rules.

Select all utility bills you pay in Iowa. Heating/cooling includes gas or electric bills for HVAC or LIHEAP payments over $20. 'Other' includes garbage or sewer fees. These affect your shelter deduction, which can increase your SNAP benefits.

If your household includes an elderly or disabled member in Iowa, enter out-of-pocket medical expenses exceeding $35/month. This includes prescriptions, doctor visits, medical equipment, or insurance premiums.