7 CFR § 273.2(j)

There are 2 different types of categorical eligibility: regular categorical eligibility (RCE) and expanded categorical eligibility (ECE).  

RCE and ECE EDGs are not required to meet certain income and asset tests, and require less verifications.  

Categorical eligibility applies to the EDG, not to the individual.  

EDGs must follow and meet SNAP rules unless specifically identified in this item. 

Determine if the EDG meets RCE first

Benefits

7 CFR § 273.2(j)(4)(iii)(C) and 7 CFR 273.10(e)(2)(ii)(B)-(C)

Benefits for all EDGs are determined following regular SNAP eligibility rules.

Reporting Requirements

7 CFR § 273.12(a)(5)(v)

All EDGs follow simplified reporting requirements.  

Exception:  RCE and ECE EDGs are not required to report changes in assets.

Overpayments and Claims

7 CFR § 273.18(a)(1)(i)

RCE and ECE cannot be canceled retroactively. 

Do not establish a SNAP claim when an overpayment is:

• due to excess assets for any EDG determined RCE or ECE, or
• because an EDG should not have been categorically eligible due to mistake in granting eligibility for the program that made it RCE or ECE.

Claims can be made against RCE or ECE EDGs if an overpayment occurred because:

• the benefit determination was not correct, 
• the EDG was ineligible for RCE, or
• the EDG was ineligible for ECE. 

Case Notes

7 CFR § 273.2(f)(6) and (j)(2)

You must record in ImpaCT whether the EDG was or wasn’t found eligible for RCE or ECE.

Last Update

Source #

Effective Date: 10/01/2022