SNAP's Medical Deductions: How To Get Increased Benefits For High Medical Expenses

If your household includes a senior (60+) or an adult with a disability and has medical expenses averaging more than $35/month, SNAP’s medical deduction could help increase your benefits.

If you are eligible, your SNAP caseworker can deduct many types of medical costs from your income. This may raise your benefit amount.

The following expenses can count for SNAPs medical deduction:

• Medical care, including psychotherapy and rehabilitation

• Dental care

• Hospitalization, outpatient treatment, nursing care or nursing home care in a facility approved by the state

• Prescription drugs and medical supplies

• Over the counter medications (if approved by a qualified medical professional)

• Medicare payments and health insurance payments

• Medicare premiums

• Medicaid cost-sharing or

  spenddown expenses

  You can claim medical expenses in SNAP:

• Dentures, hearing aids (including batteries), and prosthetics
• Costs for a service animal, including food and veterinary care
• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses
• Costs of verified transportation and lodging to receive medical care
• Costs for an attendant, home health aide, childcare provider, or housekeeper necessary for the care of an elderly or disabled household member
• Equipment added to a vehicle or home to accommodate the needs of an elderly or disabled household member.

• When you apply for SNAP, on your application; or,

• While you’re receiving SNAP, by contacting your caseworker.