More than 32,000 New Mexicans will see changes in how their energy assistance is counted when determining Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, starting November 1. The adjustment is a result of new federal requirements under H.R.1, which affect the application of energy assistance payments during SNAP eligibility assessments.
The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) is informing SNAP recipients about the upcoming changes to ensure that those who are still eligible for the energy expense deduction continue to receive it.
“We’re reaching out early so families have time to prepare,” said Niki Kozlowski, Income Support Division director at the HCA. “If you’re unsure how this affects you, please contact us now, before your next renewal date, so we can walk you through what you may need to provide.”
Households with someone aged 60 or older, or a person with a disability, will continue to receive the Heating and Cooling Standard Utility Allowance if they receive assistance from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or another home energy assistance program. These payments will not be considered income in SNAP benefit calculations.
For households without someone 60 or older or a person with a disability, the rules are changing. Recipients must inform the HCA if they pay their own heating or cooling bills and may need to provide documentation such as a utility bill, lease, or landlord letter. Receiving LIHEAP alone will no longer automatically qualify these households for the utility deduction. If another party pays the utilities, that amount will be treated as income and the deduction will not apply.
The new rule will be implemented at the time of application or benefit renewal on or after November 1. Current SNAP benefits will remain unchanged until then.
The HCA notes that this change could lead to some individuals and families losing the standard home heating and cooling cost deduction, which may lower their monthly SNAP benefits.
Those seeking assistance can visit their local HCA field office, call 1-800-283-4465 during business hours, or go to hca.nm.gov/updates-about-federal-changes for more information.
The New Mexico Health Care Authority manages programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, LIHEAP, and other services across the state, and works to connect residents to health care and support services.
