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Glossary

Categorical eligibility

A rule that lets you qualify for certain benefits automatically if you already receive another specific benefit.

Categorical eligibility means you don't have to prove your income or resources separately. If you get one benefit, you automatically meet the rules for another.

For example, if you receive SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), you automatically qualify on income for WIC (the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) without having to show pay stubs or bank statements.

Many states also use broad-based categorical eligibility for SNAP. This can raise the income limit and remove the asset test, making it easier to qualify.

Categorical eligibility rules vary by state and program. Applying is always free, and only the agency decides if you qualify.

Programs where this matters

LIHEAPHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesLIHEAP helps households with low income pay heating and cooling bills, and may help in an energy crisis such as a shut-off notice.MedicaidCenters for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesMedicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by each state with federal funding, for children, adults, pregnant people, older adults and people with disabilities.SNAPUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceSNAP gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to help households with low income buy food.WICUSDA Food and Nutrition ServiceWIC gives healthy foods, nutrition education and breastfeeding support to pregnant women, new mothers, infants and young children with low income.Child Care AidHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesChild care assistance helps families with low income pay for child care so parents can work, look for work, or go to school or training.TANFHHS Administration for Children and FamiliesTANF gives cash help and support services to families with children who have low income. Each state runs its own program.WeatherizationUS Department of EnergyThe Weatherization Assistance Program makes free energy-saving home improvements, like insulation and heating repairs, for households with low income.