The standard expense, as used here, is a money amount that represents a fair and equitable figure for all expenses for an average person to live in a manner compatible with decency and health; as contrasted with an item-by-item cost determination in each case situation. The allowed standard expense is based on the number of persons in the household. The type of living arrangements, i.e., room and board, two assistance groups in the same household, rent versus home ownership, and so on, have no bearing on the standard expense allowed.
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