Food stamps as income?

Question

Probably a stupid question but do I need to consider someone's state-fund food assistance as part of their income?  They put in on the application as another source of income.  In Multnomah County, OR

Nathan Gesner · Answer

I agree with Greg. Well, I agree with Greg's computer response. Food stamps are for food. They are not a source of income.

Greg Scott · Answer

It was fun posing this question to Komo.ai search bot.  It took a few tries to get a comprehensive response.  I have not verified the accuracy of its information.  Komo thinks residents should list it as income but landlords don't have to accept it as such.

must landlords in oregon consider food stamps as income when qualifying prospective residents?

Oregon landlords do not consider food stamps as income for rental applications. Here's why:

1. Food stamps are not considered income for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program):  The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly food benefits to eligible households. However, SNAP does not consider food stamps as income 310.

2. Oregon law prohibits discrimination based on income for housing:  In Oregon, it is illegal for landlords to discriminate against applicants based on their income. This means they cannot reject an applicant who receives rental assistance like food stamps, or exclude them from consideration for housing 89.

3. Oregon law protects tenants' privacy:  Oregon law also protects tenants' privacy, including their income sources. This means landlords cannot ask tenants about their food stamp benefits, nor can they require proof of these benefits as a condition of renting a property 8.

Here's what you should do to ensure your rental application process goes smoothly:

• Include your food stamp benefits in your income sources: While landlords cannot ask about your food stamp benefits, you should still include them as part of your income sources when applying for rental housing. This will not make your landlord consider these benefits as income, but it will help them understand your financial situation 38.

• Do not disclose your food stamp benefits without permission: It is illegal for landlords to ask about your food stamp benefits, and it is also illegal for them to require proof of these benefits as a condition of renting a property 8.  So, make sure you are comfortable with the landlord before disclosing this information.

• Use the Oregon SNAP Eligibility Calculator: If you're not sure if your income qualifies you for SNAP benefits, use the Oregon SNAP Eligibility Calculator to find out 4.  This will help you determine your eligibility for rental assistance, including food stamps.

In summary, while Oregon landlords cannot consider food stamps as income, they can play a role in your rental application process by providing one of many income sources you can include. Make sure to handle this sensitive information with care and only share it when necessary.