More than 32,000 New Mexico residents who receive benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will see changes in how their energy assistance is counted when determining benefit amounts, starting November 1. The adjustment follows federal law H.R.1 and impacts the eligibility calculations for SNAP.
The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) is working to inform SNAP recipients about these new federal requirements and to help them prepare for the upcoming changes. Niki Kozlowski, director of the Income Support Division at HCA, stated: “We are reaching out in advance so families have time to prepare. If you are unsure how this change affects you, contact us now before your next renewal so we can explain what documents you may need to provide.”
Households with a member aged 60 or older or someone with a disability will continue to receive the Heating and Cooling Standard Utility Allowance deduction if they get help from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or another home energy assistance program. For these households, such payments will not be considered income when HCA calculates SNAP benefits.
For households without an elderly member or a person with disabilities, it is necessary to notify HCA if they pay their own heating or cooling bills. Proof such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or a letter from a landlord may be required. Receiving only LIHEAP will no longer automatically qualify these households for the utility deduction. If someone else pays their utilities, that amount will count as income and the deduction will not apply.
The new rule takes effect on November 1 for those applying for or renewing benefits on that date or later; current SNAP benefits remain unchanged until then.
This federal change could result in some individuals and families losing the standard deduction for heating and cooling costs, which may lead to lower monthly SNAP benefits.
For assistance, individuals can visit their local HCA office, call 1-800-283-4465 Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., or visit hca.nm.gov/updates-about-federal-changes for more information.
