M E M O R A N D U M

IM-15  02/11/02  IRS INTERCEPTS OF SSA PAYMENTS
FOOD STAMP MANUAL REVISION #5
SECTION 1115.010.00


SUBJECT:
IRS INTERCEPTS OF SSA PAYMENTS
FOOD STAMP MANUAL REVISION #5
SECTION 1115.010.00
 
DISCUSSION:
Beginning in February 2002, the IRS will intercept Social Security payments (except SSI) to collect claims for unpaid federal tax bills under the Federal Payment Levy Program.  The intercepted amount counts as available income for the Food Stamp Program.

BENDEX will continue to reflect the full monthly Social Security payment.  Staff will probably not be aware of an intercept until contacted by a recipient.  Explain to recipients that the intercepted portion must be included as income for food stamps.

The online Food Stamp Manual is revised at this time.  A hard copy is not being distributed.  Under Section 1115.010.00 item 2 in the hard copy of the Food Stamp Manual add the following statement: "Note:  Social Security payments intercepted by the IRS to collect claims for unpaid federal tax bills under the Federal Payment Levy Program are included as unearned income".
 
NECESSARY ACTION:
  • Discuss this memorandum with all appropriate staff.
  • Consider intercepted Social Security payments(except SSI) as available income.
  • Make the appropriate changes to Section 1115.010.00 item 2 in the hard copy of the Food Stamp Manual.
MRT
Distribution #6
IM-14
[ 2002 Memorandums ]
 IM-16