The first thing we do in the computation of earned income is determine if we are looking at SSP or not.

NO SSP:

If not determining eligibility for SSP; we do not apply the $20 to earned Income. It will be taken from the unearned income.

FOR SSP:

We deduct the general income exclusion (GIE) of $20 per month from the combined earned income of the eligible individual and eligible or ineligible spouse. The $20 GIE cannot be deducted from unearned income when determining eligibility for the SSP.

After deducting the GIE $20, next apply the earned income formula.

Applying Earned Income Fomula

Subtract 65 from the earned income and then divide by 2. This will give you the countable earned income.

(This formula can only be used one time per couple. If both have earned income, you will need to add the income together before applying the earned income formula).

The $20 general income exclusion should be coded in the Income tab of the Eligibility Notebook in FACS in the General Income Exclusion block. The rest of the allowable earned income deductions (one-half of the remainder + 65) should be coded in the Non-TANF Work Expense block.

Note: If an eligible individual has an ineligible spouse (eligible individual’s spouse who doesn’t receive SSI or TANF) and ineligible minor child/children in the homes (children under age 18 who do not receive SSI or TANF), first refer to article Ineligible Minor Child Allocation.

If the eligible individual has other work-related deductions, such as student earned income exemption, PASS Plan or work expenses related to the client’s disability and/or blindness, please read the article SSI-Criteria State Order of Deductions for Earned Income. These deductions will be given prior to the earned income formula being used.