7 CFR § 273.2(j)(2)(ii)(A)-(B) and (iii)


EDGs not RCE, whose gross income is below 200% of the FPL, are ECE because all household members are authorized to receive TFA-funded referral services.  EDGs are notified of the referral services through receipt of the “Help for People in Need Brochure” at application and renewal. 

Exception:  Certain EDGs are ineligible for ECE.

ECE Excluded Tests

7 CFR § 273.2(j)(2)(v) and (4)(iii)(A)-(B) & 7 CFR § 273.8(a) & 7 CFR § 273.9(a)


ECE EDGs are not required to meet the:

  • Asset limit, including transferred resources policy
  • 130% gross income limit


Follow all other SNAP eligibility rules to determine the EDG’s eligibility. 

Ineligible for ECE

7 CFR § 273.2(j)(2)(i) and (vii) and (4)(v)


EDGs are not ECE eligible when:

  • Gross income is over 200% of the FPL. 
    • EDGs with no elderly or disabled members are not eligible for SNAP. 
    • Determine eligibility for EDGs with an elderly or disabled member under regular SNAP requirements.
  • A member is disqualified for Intentional Program Violation (IPV).
  • The entire EDG is disqualified because a member failed to comply with workfare.
  • The head of household is disqualified for failing to comply with work requirements.
  • A member is disqualified for a drug-related felony for not complying with the terms of their sentence or probation.
  • The EDG fails to provide required information needed to determine eligibility.
  • The EDG is ineligible following striker policy.


Determine eligibility under regular SNAP requirements.

Exception: Assets are excluded for EDGs with gross income under 200% of the FPL, even if an EDG member is disqualified.

Excluded EDG Members

7 CFR § 273.2(j)(2)(ix) and (4)(iv)


Do not include the following individuals as a member in an EDG otherwise ECE eligible: 

Note:  The EDG is not ECE eligible if any member of the EDG is disqualified for an IPV.